Computer case plate

[tezarc]

I am designing a custom plate for my computer case. The old plate is mostly decorative but the new plate will have to hold up 8 hard drives mounted perpendicular to the plate's vertical placement. I have most of the design finished but I have a few questions:

1. The only material data I can find on the case is that it is made from cold rolled steel. My calipers indicates the original plate is 0.063" thick. Which steel would be recommended for my project? I'm not necessarily looking for the cheapest material, but not the most expensive either.

2. In the attached picture the screw holes protrudes on the bottom side to create additional thread. Does the tapping machine do this by design? If so do I have to specify the height of the protrusion? And if not, how do I re-create the protrusion?

3. Also from the attached picture, would the top finish be textured powder coat?

Thank you.

[tezarc]

I forgot one question. When measuring distances that is next to a 90 degree bend, should I use the inside the bend measurement or outside the bend?
To add to my confusion, when I use the "model bend" command it seems to indicate the bend will be made slightly short of the inside measurement. Is this correct?

[Tech2]

1 - 1008 should be fine.
2 - That's a special process we don't do.
3 - Hard to tell but there is a good chance.
4 - See Bend Drawings.

[tezarc]

Thank you for the answers. About question #3, could you tell me what the name of the process is so I can read up on it? I may just do the initial fab work with you guys and have this process done elsewhere. Thanks.

[Tech2]

I don't know the name but you might consider PEM nuts also.