What is a consequence of drilling holes in a sheet metal panel?

Drilling holes in a sheet metal panel compromises the integrity of the material, leading to a weakened structure. When holes are introduced, they create stress concentrations around the area, reducing the overall strength of the panel. These points are more susceptible to bending or breaking under load compared to undisturbed areas of the metal. Additionally, if the holes are not properly treated, they can also serve as entry points for moisture, increasing the risk of corrosion over time. While accessibility might improve in certain scenarios, this benefit does not outweigh the structural disadvantages caused by reducing the material integrity of the panel. Overall, the primary consequence is the structural weakness introduced by drilling into the sheet metal.