Nibbling tool for building pedals

[southernRoller7]

What would you I use one of these for in making a pedal?

Here's kind of how it work if you aren't familiar with it...
http://www.adelnibbler.com/Step_by_Step ... ibbler.htm

I don't really see a need for one, but if you guys can think of anything, I always love to get new toys.

[NickC]

Might be useful for cutting IEC power socket holes?

[xtian]

Interesting thread here, where these folks say they prefer the $10 radio shack model over the $36 Abel:

http://www.eham.net/ehamforum/smf/index ... ic=69669.0

[ampgeek]

My guess is that it isn't stout enough to nibble through die cast aluminum pedal enclosures. Thinner, sheet metal type....maybe. However, a thin metal enclosure might not be stout enough to "jump" on.

If you are going to be making your own circuit boards, consider saving the $ to put toward a nice Dremel tool and a fixture/drill press accessory. My ~25 yr old Dremel tool finally crapped out last weekend. I picked up a Dremel drill press fixture when I replaced it (~$50). Can't believe I waited so long to jump in on that. Drilling a 100 or so 1/32" holes is now almost fun!!

Cheers,
Dave O.

P.S. You will also need the micro collet Dremel accessory to hold the small bits if you do go this route.

[M Fowler]

I got a nibbler from Tube Depot or one of those tube sites and it works good for squaring up the IEC hole but it kills my hand. Only good for thin aluminum chassis. I've used it to make small rectangle holes for old style Fender slide switches.

[LeftyStrat]

I have the Radio Shack one, and it is surprisingly stout. But still only good for thin aluminum. I have a milling machine, but never figured out a way to mount an aluminum chassis on it to do the IEC rectangle.

[tsutt]

How big of mill do you have Lefty? you need an angle plate to stand parts up to and clamp.

[surfsup]

tsutt, the Z stroke is probably not enough after a holder and tool overhang. Yes, Lefty, what mill do you have? I'm jealous!

[rp]

I have the Klein, they make good tools. I can confirm it kills your hand and it'll never cut dicast boxes. It's still a very useful tool to have so buy it anyway, I waited 20 years to buy one and I wish I could have back the hours spent drilling and filing. Dremel has one scary disadvantage in that one slip and you got an ugly scar on chassis so sometimes hand tools are a must if it's something fancy.

[LeftyStrat]

How big of mill do you have Lefty? you need an angle plate to stand parts up to and clamp.

tsutt, the Z stroke is probably not enough after a holder and tool overhang. Yes, Lefty, what mill do you have? I'm jealous!

It's the Harbor Freight version of the Sieg X2. It only has 12" swing, so it's limited. Travel is 11" in X and 5" in Y. I was going to do a CNC conversion, but I think I might go to CNC router.

[tsutt]

Ya, thats small for what i was getting at. The other possibility would be to machine a router template and cut them out with a router. a carbide router bit will cut alum. all day long.

[LeftyStrat]

Ya, thats small for what i was getting at. The other possibility would be to machine a router template and cut them out with a router. a carbide router bit will cut alum. all day long.

That's an interesting idea, I hadn't thought of that.

[cbass]

Thats how I make IEC coutouts with a router and template

[rp]

So you can go at AL with a router like wood? Make a jig and drill a hole insert bit and go? You sure? You promise if I ever try this the bit or chassis won't explode in my face? Do you need cutting oil? cbass how about a pict of your set up and your template?

[Tillydog]

I use a small diameter solid carbide bit and slow the router down. No cutting oil. I always feel a bit nervous doing it, but it seems to work OK.

It makes the most un-holy mess, though. I killed one cheap router because the metal chips got drawn into the motor. A shop vac is good.