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Spitfire Shelf

This shelf is inspired by elements of the Supermarine Spitfire aircraft. The shelf is a simple project made from 18-gauge mild steel sheet strengthened by dimple die holes on the flat and upright surfaces. The dimple die process considerably stiffens the shelf which is also braced by end brackets that are TIG welded from the reverse surface to create an invisible join. To finish the shelf it was polished using 3M Roloc pads on a die grinder and then sprayed with clear automotive lacquer.

We use the shelf in the workshop to store loose items but it also works very well as a shelf to hold a few beer bottles. We have no commercial association with Shepherd Neame who make Spitfire Kentish Ale but we think it is a fantastic beer, check their website out at https://www.shepherdneame.co.uk /

Spitfire Shelf

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Shelf inspired by structures found in the Spitfire airframe

Completed Shelf

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The shelf can be made with a small bench-mounted brake to bend the sheet steel into shape

Holes Stiffened Using Dimple Dies

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Using a dimple die to flange the holes adds considerable stiffness to the finished shelf

Brace Struts

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Struts, spot welded from the back of the shelf, allow the shelf to support heavier loads without distorting

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