Has anyone used Aluminium studs for benchwork? I am starting a new layout and was wondering if they would work for benchwork.
I’ve built all of my benchwork from STEEL studs, assembled in classic Linn Westcott L-girder fashion, and am highly pleased (gross understatement!) with the results. If you have a reliable source for the aluminum equivalents, they should work - provided that they are bent sheet stock, not extrusions.
While I’ve seen (and used) aluminum extrusions (salvaged from broken patio doors) for reinforcement purposes, they tend to crack when bent at sharp angles. I don’t believe I’ve ever encountered full size aluminum studs. Since Al is considerably more expensive than Fe, I have never purchased it in any form.
Chuck (Modeling Central Japan in September, 1964)
If you mean “Steel Studs” I would not hesitate to use them. I have not built a MRR out of them, but have built other projects with them. My only concern would be the metal cutting the insulation on the electrical wire. Rubber gromits take care of that though.
Steel Studs are cheap and when you go to Home Depot to buy them you can just grab a arm load as you already know they are straight and true and very lightweight.
Steel Studs with foam on top. A warping problem waiting to happen??? I don’t think soooooo! Good luck.[:)]
Here’s a pic of the one steel stud on the layout.
Brent