After creating a database with all the parts per the drawing supplied, I calculated the surface acrea required by thickness. Based on the longest lengths and the area required I then determined the size and QTY of sheets. I called in several quotes from a local supplier, one in Austin (which is about an hour away from San Antonio) and Aircraft Spruce. Local supplier was too expensive and did not carry 0.016". Trident Metals gave me prices that were not that bad, but the minimum length to order was 4' X 12' so it would not make sense to order the thicker thicknesses from Trident. My only concern was freight if I were to order from Aicraft Spruce. Quote came in yesterday and I was happily surprised. I ordered all the aluminum sheet required, inlcuding freight for less than $$1,850.
Access database for parts
Example of requirements reports. Total Area required by thickness
