Tapping / Mounting on Backpanel: HOW TO?

Just curious if I could get some ideas from everyone. I've put off my automated enclosure long enough and looking to get the inside wired. (Previously mounted and drilled all external holes)

My question is what tools do I need in order to tap the backpanel. It is a rather thick steel, in which I would love to be able to screw din rail and other items directly too it. What is the process in order to do this?

I don't want to drill holes and then use a nut on the backside. Is it possible to use a tap (Think that is the right tool) in order to allow screws to tighten as they pass through backpanel? Does everyone have a recommended size?

Things that will attach to back panel:
DIN rails, DC PSUs, Relay Board, etc.

Thanks in advance,
Squeeky

 

The back panel should be thick enough to tap. That's what I did to screw down my DIN rails.

I don't recall what size I drilled for. I'll get the answer later tonight when I get home from work.

There's a link to my build in my signature. DIN=cool & easy to work on.

 

I'd buy a tap & die set like this: northerntool.com - tap & die

Easy to use and will do the job for most screw sizes. And at $30, it's a good deal.

P-J

 

Thanks guys, I'm gonna do some searching for a cheap titanium option. Harbor Freight has a small steel set for $9 but not sure it would last all the holes.

 

Tek screws?

 

If this is the one you are referencing harborfreight.com - tap and die set You will be A-ok with it. Keep in mind that the back plate is not hard SS. It is a soft metal plate.

 

Awesome, with 20% off coupon I just got in the mail. That seems like a cheap way to make the backpanel much easier to work with. I'll get headed there tomorrow morning to pickup the HF set.

For reference this is my enclosure and backpanel: http://www.ebay.com/itm/INDOOR-OUTD...lectrical_Equipment_Tools&hash=item5d34772643

 

The same panel is on its way to me to be delivered by Friday. Not sure I need to tap as I've got bolts/nuts for days to secure.

 

The only problem with nuts and bolts is that you will have a lot of work I you need to replace something. Instead of just disconnecting the one piece of faulty equipment and swapping it out, you now have to dismantle almost your entire rig just to swap out a ssr, or contractor or whatever, just a thought.

 

Do not buy the Harbor freight set. They do not last well for threading new holes. They work okay as thread chasers but not for new holes.