3D Printing Front Panel Of My Cabinet. Possibilities?

[zero_cool]

I recently got a Corsair Obsidian 250D. The front panel of the case is a solid block of plastic and this unnecessarily restricts airflow. I do not want to tamper the original component therefore I plan to make a 3D printed version of the front panel with adequate vents.

I have no idea about 3D printing so any inputs on the process and the cost involved help a long way. Also, I have no idea how to ascertain the exact dimensions of the panel in a 3D plane so any tips on how to go about it will help too. The backside of the panel has hinges which attach to the case that makes this whole piece a bit tricky.

 

[AK3D]

3D printing is easy to do - but most entry level printers won't do more than 20 cm - 22. You'll need to find a Creality CR10 or above, with a larger bed size to print this one (300 mm).
Unless you have a 3D printer and are doing this yourself, an alternative would be to get a spare panel from Corsair and drill vent holes in it.

 

[Mr.J]

Is 3D printing good enough to handle intricate mesh patterns? And when I say good enough I mean without having to pay price of a new case.

 

[Adithya_babu]

Is 3D printing good enough to handle intricate mesh patterns? And when I say good enough I mean without having to pay price of a new case.

It is possible but it won't be cost effective for something like this

 

[tech.monk]

without having to pay price of a new case.

how will you suffice the filament cost then?

I recently got a Corsair Obsidian 250D. The front panel of the case is a solid block of plastic and I feel this unnecessarily restricts airflow. I do not want to tamper the original component but it will be nice if I can make a 3D printed version of this but will adequate vents to make the airflow better. I have no idea about 3D printing so some inputs on it as well as cost involved here will go a long way. Also, I have no idea how to ascertain the exact dimensions of the panel in a 3D plane so it will be very useful. The backside of the panel has hinges to attach it to the case as well so that is tricky as well.

I will suggest you to go the acrylic route - where you could cut with laser cutter (offered as service - if you visit the market where acrylic and laser cutting/engraving services offered)

This will fit your needs and you will have better design as per your creativity.

Note: Laser Cutter guy will need drawing in certain format (depends on the machine they are operating) and they will get you final product.

 

[AK3D]

It is possible but it won't be cost effective for something like this

Is 3D printing good enough to handle intricate mesh patterns? And when I say good enough I mean without having to pay price of a new case.

Easily cost effective. A filament roll costs from 850 to 1200 for a roll, depending on what it is. I doubt the front cover would be over 150-200gm of material
It can print any mesh/intricate patterns with ease.

 

[zero_cool]

how will you suffice the filament cost then?

I will suggest you to go the acrylic route - where you could cut with laser cutter (offered as service - if you visit the market where acrylic and laser cutting/engraving services offered)

This will fit your needs and you will have better design as per your creativity.

Note: Laser Cutter guy will need drawing in certain format (depends on the machine they are operating) and they will get you final product.

Interesting suggestion. Acrylic will be a good alternative. I will check the possibilities this weekend.