Peotone, IL
Quoted from JoelOmatik:Hey all. I recently came across this interesting topic from 2 years ago regarding metal fabrication, which I know very little about.
https://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/fabricating-sheet-metal-pinball-parts-type-of-metal-to-use
I figured starting a new topic because I'm looking about specifically making/cutting ball guides with both straight and curved patterns. I have a pin design I'm tinkering with and I've been using old ball guides from parted games. I picked up a sheet of 8" x 24" Hillman brand 16 gauge sheet metal from Lowe's. It appears to be the same thickness as standard ball guides. Not sure if it's stainless steel.
I'll check on nearby metal shops for info, but what is the best, simplest, least-messiest, least-dangerous way of doing it at home?
-What are the best jigsaw blades to cleanly cut with no/minimal jagged edges?
-Are cut off wheels better? I've got an angle grinder and dremel for large/small pieces.
-Best tools for deburring?
-Are Beverly shears strong enough? Can they cut clean curves as well as straight lines?
-As for drilling holes, I read that a squeeze punch (eg: Roper Whitney) or cobalt bits & cutting oil are the way to go. Anybody have experience with these?
Appreciate any help!
If its from lowes Its not stainless
If you look at the back of the jig saw packages it tells you what is the best blade for different thickness and speeds
Cut off wheels are good for short cuts or for notching a little to make a very tight bend in 16 gauge
for deburring i usually use a bench mounted belt sander does it fast and smooth with little sparks
if it needs alot of shaping then i use a flap disc on an angle grinder
I dont recommend using shears to cut 16 gauge it bends the metal which means more finishing work
i use cobalt or titanium bits on a drill press at a low speed for drilling out the holes for the rivets
Hope this helps you out 
Matt
