A couple of things that may apply.
1.
The stainless will likely need passivation after handling / forming.
2.
As others have pointed out it sounds more like you are in need of a sheet metal shop than a mill. The only exception I can see would be the construction of very small lot sizes of industrial or military computer enclosures. Even then we would be talking about heavier walled enclosures where a mill could be used effectively.
3.
Others have also pointed out that a water jet is the way to go. For the types of projects you are describing, where I expect that looks mean something, a water jet will get you there faster. For the very small lots you are talking about you could just have a shop cut and bend the stainless.
4.
You may be able to get away from the stainless if you can source some ballistic armor plate. I really don't see how this will solve any problems though as anybody that has a problem penetrating the plate can simply wait for the lens to come into view. As you note you don't even have to hit the lens square. In the end it really sounds like your client needs another solution.
Dave  |