DataPro produces CNC milled custom control panels, interface panels, front panels and more on short notice and with no minimum quantity. We work with aluminum, steel, brass, acrylic, with other materials available. Lead time for panels is typically 3-5 days, with additional time required for especially large batches and some finishing options. Final quoted prices will include programming, setup, materials, and milling time.
To request a quote, just email us your requirements. For the quickest and most accurate quoting, we'll need the following vital pieces of information about your project:
Quantity
We have no minimum order quantity, but larger batches typically result in a lower per-unit price. Why not get some spares?
Material
We stock a variety of popular materials and in multiple thicknesses and colors. If you have a specific requirement that isn't listed here, email us!
Panel Corners
The corners of your panels can be left square, or milled into an angled or rounded shape.
Corners Panel corners are squared by default, but can also be cut at a 45° angle, or rounded.
Edge Treatment
Depending on the material, the edges of a panel can be chamfered at a 45° angle, or milled into a rounded fillet. If you have a specific radius in mind, include that with your drawing. Otherwise, we can pick one that will work best with your chosen material.
Edges The perimeter of the panel can be left square, chamfered at a 45° angle, or rounded into a fillet.
Anodizing & Finishing
Panels cut from bare aluminum can be anodized after milling, eliminating the silver edge seen on panels cut from pre-anodized aluminum. This is most economical for orders of multiple panels, as it incurs a minimum batch charge.
Due to standard manufacturing processes, panels will sometimes show small blemishes or imperfections on the non-display side of the unit. If you require consistent aesthetics on both the front and back of your panel, please let us know.
Engraving and Laser Marking
If desired, indicate the type (engraving or laser), exact placement, and copy on your drawing. If you have a preference for size or font, please include that as well. Otherwise we'll default to Helvetica and pick an appropriate size to fit.
Drawing Please read carefully: To accurately quote a panel, we'll need a drawing that shows a few vital pieces of information about the project.
Our engineers are happy to work with any kind of drawing you can provide (napkin sketches included), or we can create a professional production-quality drawing for a very competitive fee.
Quoted project costs include the time it takes to convert your drawing or model to a format we can use for manufacturing.
For minimum design and conversion time, submit your drawing in one of the following formats: DXF, DWG, S/DPRT, STP/STEP, STL, or 3DM.
Your satisfaction is our #1 priority! So before manufacturing, we'll ask for your written sign-off on the final version of the drawing, to make sure you're getting exactly what you want. Once that's done, production can begin!
Please include the following information on your drawing:
Width and height of the panel
If your panel is an irregular shape, please include the lengths of each edge.
Size and location of mounting holes
We'll need to know the diameter and location of mounting holes.
Location of standard cutouts
Indicate roughly where you'd like your cutouts to be. If the location is specific, include its distance from two edges of the panel.
(Optional) Usable area of panel
This should indicate the area in the back of your panel in which components can be installed. It is generally within the perimeter of the mounting holes, and may be determined by the dimensions of the enclosure the panel will be mounted over.
(Optional) Dimensions, clearances, and locations of nonstandard cutouts
If your panel includes any cutouts that are not on our list of standard cutouts, please include as much information about them as possible. We may also request a sample of the connector that will be installed in the cutout.
We can convert, optimize, and laser mark your logo for sharp, professional branding.
Laser Marking
For clean lines and maximum precision, laser marking is the perfect solution.
Take a look at our Laser Marking Sample Gallery
Engraving
This durable marking method looks great on any material with a contrasting surface treatment such as anodized aluminum or layered acrylic. For more information, see our Rotary vs Laser Engraving article.
Paint Infill
Engraving can be infilled with paint for a colorful and high-contrast marking solution.
UV Printing
UV printing provides durable, full-color marking that's weather and fade-resistant.
Finishing:
Anodizing
While pre-anodized aluminum is available, we can also anodize your panels post-cutting to provide a full-coverage durable finish.
Powder Coating
Protect your panel with a high-quality powder coat applied as a final step.
Painting
Get creative with painted finishes! Available in a range of colors and textures.
Accessories:
Press-Fit Fasteners
Mount PCBs, attach mounting hardware, and more with press-fit fasteners built into your panel. Concealed-head and flush-head available. Flush-mount nuts available on panels 0.090" and thicker. Perfect for adding windows and vents too!
Captive Fasteners
Perfect for frequently-removed panels and components. These fasteners stay attached to the panel even when loosened, preventing loss or damage to equipment.
Switch Guards & Hardware
We carry switch guards, panel handles, fasteners, and more. Check out our Accessories & Hardware section, or contact us if you have something specific in mind.
We stock a variety of common materials in multiple colors and thicknesses, but can source nearly anything with a very short turnaround. If you don't see what you're looking for here, just contact us.
0.048"
0.050"
0.063"
0.090"
0.125"
Acrylic Matte or Glossy Black, 75% or 90% opaque White
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Layered Acrylic Black with White Core or White with Black Core
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6061 Aluminum Bare or Black Anodized
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5052 Aluminum Clear or Black Anodized
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Steel 4130, A366/1008, and T-304 available
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Brass
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0.125" Acrylic
This acrylic material is lightweight and durable, with outstanding resistance to sunlight and weathering.
0.125" Layered Engraving Acrylic
Made of three layers, with a contrasting color sandwiched between two shell layers. This makes for excellent, high-contrast direct engraving.
6061 Anodized Black Aluminum
An affordable and sharp-looking alternative to batch anodizing. This pre-anodized black aluminum lasers beautifully. The only downside is the bare aluminum showing on the edges. For a fully anodized panel, see our Post-Cut Anodizing option.
6061 Aluminum
A popular and durable material, that machines well and has high resistance to corrosion. While this high-strength aluminum isn't recommended for bending, it is heat-treatable and lightweight.
5052 Aluminum
This bendable, weldable alloy is perfect for enclosures. Ideal for anodizing.
Steel
A durable structural material available in a number of styles and thicknesses.
Brass
A beautiful material that polishes up wonderfully and has antibacterial properties.
Download our quote request form
DataPro's standard plate and panel cutouts are designed to be compatible with our panel-mount cables and couplers.
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