Strength of flanges

[Whiskeymike]

I'm making a cage for my hypertherm plasma cutter that will be bolted to a tool cart. Does it matter which direction the flanges go for strength? Not sure what factors are involved for it being supported from below versus hanging from above. Picture included for reference.

 

[Maticuno]

If you were worried about them bending under the weight, I'd have the flanges bent toward the outside so that gussets could be added without taking up the interior space of the cage.

 

[Maticuno]

Don't judge me on my inability to draw, but this is what I'm getting at.

 

[motobilt]

I'm making a cage for my hypertherm plasma cutter that will be bolted to a tool cart. Does it matter which direction the flanges go for strength? Not sure what factors are involved for it being supported from below versus hanging from above. Picture included for reference.

Both flanges pointed up would be less likely to peel them off under load. Meaning your top flange pointed down offers less strength because the load can pull at the bend. With the pointed up it would pull more on the fasteners. If you need to add sheet metal gussets to the top or bottom it would still be easy.

 

[Whiskeymike]

Excellent, thanks guys. I'll make the changes. I'm also planning on using the dimple dies I got for Christmas to stiffen it up.

Btw, drawing was easy to understand and helpful. Thanks!