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[Xion X2]

Would the Swiftech MCR 220 fit? Performance shouldn't be an issue.

Keep the updates coming - looks like you're not that far away from starting the build.

Nope, not far away. Should get some cutting done this weekend. I've sent the side panel graphic off for an estimate, as well. So before long this project will finally move from renders to life.

Would love to have a play with one of those Roto zips

Yea.. should be fun.

The Swiftech rads fit just fine in the top section and the bottom section.

Can't wait to see that panel.

Yeah, I agree w/ you and Shazza. I think mounting a MCR220 in the top would probably be the easiest solution.

Symmetry is a key theme w/ this build, though, so if I use a MCR220 in the top I may do the same on the bottom. If not, will probably create a radbox for both radiators to keep them looking similar.

Oooo! real-life parts! keep em comin

yay! physical parts!

Yeah, yeah... you guys..

Trust me. No one wants this project to move forward quicker than I. This is, however, my most ambitious build by a mile and so I've had to invest in a few tools along the way to help fulfill my lofty design goals.

I probably could've had everything cut already if I'd let a machine shop do all the work, but I don't want to be the guy that hands his metalwork off to the nearest shop every time. Despite all the pretty renders, I do like to get my own hands dirty and do my own grub work.

Thanks for checking in. More updates and photos tomorrow if I have time. Nothing too sexy right now.. just prepping the side panel for the waterjet and breaking the case down.

[charles_h]

Awesome stuff!

You take your time and enjoy the process - no pressure here - just enthusiasm and support.

Just be careful with that rotozip and be sure to apply cutting fluid while using it... especially with Aluminum.

Looking forward to your next update!

[Xion X2]

Awesome stuff!

You take your time and enjoy the process - no pressure here - just enthusiasm and support.

Just be careful with that rotozip and be sure to apply cutting fluid while using it... especially with Aluminum.

Looking forward to your next update!

Thanks, Charles. I appreciate the kind words of support. It's been difficult not to rush this thing, but I think in the long run it'll be well worth taking the time to make sure it's all done right.

Thanks also for the helpful advice about the cutting fluid. I had seen your infamous warning to shazza about it on her log, but it never hurts to have a reminder.

Obviously, I'm a big fan of your work and especially the most recent project that you did for Daniel. The work I have in mind for the Rotozip came from seeing your success with it in enlarging the Orbital cutouts. I had thought about having them laser cut beforehand, but I think I'm going to try this first along with plenty of filing to see how clean I can get them.

Wish me luck. I may need an entire habitat of zen frogs to make it through.

[charles_h]

I think it's great you're going to do your own cutting. You might want to consider the jigsaw base attachment like CaptDreadFlint has - the one in your pic is a bit flimsy and hard to hold to a straight edge guide IMO. The other thing is to spend all the time you need setting up good cutting fences/jigs.

Which bit are you planning on using? With the right bit, a rotozip produces an outstandingly clean edge with Aluminum - meaning minimal filing.

What I've discovered is that aluminum is so soft, the cutting friction heats it really fast and it begins to melt instead of cut cleanly. Cutting fluid helps but you need to keep dumping it on like crazy. I know I go on about the fluid but you'll see what I mean.

Just practice on some test pieces and you'll get the hang of it - you'll do great!