Aluminum profiles with T-shaped cross-sections are called T-slot aluminum extrusions. They have multiple T-slots on the sides to allow easy attachment of various components. This gives T-slot aluminum extrusions great flexibility when building structures and can be quickly assembled and disassembled according to actual needs.
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T-slot aluminum extrusions are also popular in the market due to their easy processing, high strength, light weight, and corrosion resistance. For example, aluminum profiles can be processed by cutting, drilling, milling, etc. to meet the needs of different shapes and sizes.
In order to give you an in-depth understanding of T-slot aluminum profiles, this article provides a comprehensive analysis of its main uses, standards and specifications, materials and surface treatments, manufacturing processes, applications and accessories.
T-slot aluminum extrusions have multiple main functions such as structural supports, connectors and sliding components, and are widely used in various industries and fields. Below we introduce these main functions respectively:
Because the aluminum alloy materials used in T-slot aluminum extrusions have exceptional strength and stability, these extrusions provide good structural support. They can offer dependable support for any kind of structure, including frames used in buildings or machinery support structures.
T-slot aluminum extrusions show off their versatility as a material for structural support when used to construct frames and brackets. Their design makes it simple to combine profiles of various sizes and shapes to create a wide range of intricate structures. Because of their flexibility, T-slot aluminum extrusions are used in a wide range of applications.
In addition, T-slot aluminum extrusions are also popular for their lightweight properties. T-slot aluminum extrusions can lower the total weight while maintaining structural stability because of the lightweight aluminum alloy. This is especially crucial for applications where weight is a key factor, like the aerospace sector.
T-slot aluminum extrusions can be used not only as the main body of the support structure, but also as the basis for connectors.
Multiple aluminum profiles can be easily connected by installing bolts, nuts, and other connectors in the T-slots.
This connection method is very flexible and can be assembled into structures of various shapes and sizes as needed, from simple frames to complex mechanical equipment.
In addition, this connection method also has high reliability and stability. This makes T-slot aluminum extrusions an ideal choice for construction, machine manufacturing and other fields.
Whether used to build exhibition display racks, assembly line workbenches or other engineering projects, T-slot aluminum extrusions can meet various needs.
Tracks for sliding components are another common application for T-slot aluminum extrusions. Their T-shaped channel design, which offers the perfect sliding surface, is the reason behind this.
T-slot aluminum extrusions are perfect as tracks for sliding doors, drawers, or other moveable pieces because of their carefully made channels. Doors, drawers, and other parts may be moved and positioned with great stability and dependability because to its design.
High strength and stability structural materials, T-slot aluminum extrusions, are frequently employed in the industrial and construction sectors. Understanding national standards and common requirements for T-slot aluminum profiles is essential to proper selection and usage.
The National Standardization Administration Committee in China is responsible for issuing the national standard for T-slot aluminum extrusions. Among them, GB/T is the Chinese national standard for T-slot aluminum extrusions.
In order to guarantee the quality and dependability of T-slot aluminum extrusions, it specifies the requirements for their classification, marking, size, permitted deviation, surface quality, and other aspects.
In Europe, the standards for T-slot aluminum extrusions are issued by the European Committee for Standardization. EN 755-9 is the European standard for T-slot aluminum extrusions.
It is similar to the Chinese standard and stipulates the dimensions, allowable deviations, mechanical properties and other requirements for T-slot aluminum extrusions.
In the United States, the standard for T-slot aluminum extrusions is issued by the American Standards Institute. ASTM B221 is the American standard for T-slot aluminum extrusions.
It also stipulates the dimensions, allowable deviations, chemical composition, mechanical properties and other requirements of T-slot aluminum extrusions, which is basically consistent with other national standards.
The specifications of T-slot aluminum extrusions are usually expressed in series. Common series include 20 series, 30 series, 40 series and 45 series, etc. The specifications are as follows:
The slot width is 6mm, the overall dimensions are usually 20mm × 20mm, and the slot depth is about 6mm.
Series 20 T-slot aluminum extrusions are suitable for small structures and light load applications. Due to the narrow slot width, this profile is usually used in situations where a lightweight and compact structure is required, such as light machinery and equipment, display racks, model making, etc.
The limitation of groove width also makes the load-bearing capacity of 20 series profiles relatively low, so it is not suitable for carrying large heavy objects or occasions requiring high strength.
The slot width is 8mm, the overall dimensions are usually 30mm × 30mm, and the slot depth is about 8mm.
30 series T-slot aluminum extrusions are one of the most commonly used specifications and are suitable for general industrial and construction applications.
The groove width is moderate, which not only has certain rigidity and load-bearing capacity, but also meets the needs of general applications.
30 series profiles are commonly used in the structural construction of various mechanical equipment, workbenches, conveyor lines, etc., and are widely used in factories and workshops.
The slot width is 8mm, the overall dimensions are usually 40mm × 40mm, and the slot depth is about 8mm.
40 series T-slot aluminum extrusions have high rigidity and load-bearing capacity and are suitable for large structures and heavy-load applications.
Compared with the 30 series, the 40 series profiles have the same groove width, but due to the larger overall size of the profiles, they can withstand greater force and weight.
Therefore, 40 series profiles are often used in structures that require higher strength and rigidity, such as the bases of mechanical equipment and large frames in factory workshops.
The slot width is 10mm, the overall dimensions are usually 45mm × 45mm, and the slot depth is about 10mm.
45 series T-slot aluminum extrusions have higher load-bearing capacity and are suitable for applications requiring higher strength and rigidity.
Compared with the 40 series, the 45 series profiles have a wider groove width, can withstand greater force and weight, and are suitable for heavier structures and equipment.
45 series profiles are often used in large machinery equipment, heavy industrial facilities and other occasions that need to withstand high loads.
The specification selection of T-slot aluminum extrusions should be based on specific use requirements and load conditions to ensure the stability and safety of the structure.
T-slot aluminum extrusions are a commonly used structural material with the advantages of being lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and easy to process.
They are widely used in industry and construction. The material and surface treatment have a significant impact on their performance and use.
T-slot aluminum extrusions are usually made of aluminum alloys, because aluminum alloys have good strength and corrosion resistance, while lightweight, suitable for use in a variety of structures.
Common aluminum alloy types include aluminum alloy, aluminum alloy and aluminum alloy. Below we introduce these three aluminum alloys respectively:
aluminum alloy is a commonly used aluminum alloy with good strength, weldability and corrosion resistance.
Compared to other aluminum alloys, alloy is stronger but still maintains high machinability and is easy to form and process. This makes aluminum alloy widely used in various industrial fields (such as aerospace, automobiles, bicycles, ships, construction engineering, etc.).
In addition to strength and workability, aluminum alloy also offers excellent corrosion resistance. It can be used in a variety of environments, including seawater and chemical environments, without being severely affected. This makes aluminum alloy particularly popular in applications requiring corrosion resistance.
aluminum alloy has good surface treatment properties and corrosion resistance, and is often used in highly decorative applications.
It has good plasticity and weldability, and is easy to process and shape. aluminum alloy also has high hardness and strength and is suitable for occasions requiring higher strength and decoration.
aluminum alloy is commonly used in building doors and windows, curtain walls, exhibition displays, furniture and other fields. It can also be surface treated through anodizing, spraying and other methods to increase its weather resistance and aesthetics.
aluminum alloy has high strength and hardness and is suitable for structures requiring higher load-bearing capacity. It also has excellent corrosion resistance and is suitable for use in a variety of environments.
aluminum alloy is often used in fields such as the base of mechanical equipment, industrial structures, aviation industry, etc. that require high strength and wear resistance.
Through heat treatment, the strength and hardness of aluminum alloy can be further improved, making it suitable for more demanding engineering applications.
The surface treatment of T-slot aluminum extrusions usually includes anodizing, spraying, PVDF coating, etc. The main purpose is to increase their surface hardness, corrosion resistance and decoration. Below we will introduce three surface treatment methods:
Aluminum profiles can be anodized, an electrochemical process that creates an oxide layer on their surface. The aluminum profiles surface is oxidized to create a dense oxide coating by energizing it as an anode in the oxidizing solution.
Strong insulating performance, high surface hardness, good wear resistance, and specific anti-corrosion qualities characterize the anodized aluminum profile.
Spraying is the process of evenly applying paint on the surface of aluminum profiles through a spray gun. Paint can be in liquid or powder form and cures to form a protective layer.
Spraying can achieve various colors and effects, and has better decorative and protective properties, but its durability is slightly inferior to anodizing and PVDF coatings.
PVDF coating is a layer of coating formed by spraying PVDF resin coating evenly on the surface of aluminum profiles and baking and curing it.
PVDF coating has excellent weather resistance, chemical resistance and abrasion resistance, can maintain color and gloss for a long time, and has strong corrosion resistance.
The manufacturing process of T-slot aluminum extrusions mainly includes steps such as extrusion, cutting, drilling, and milling. Below, we will introduce these processes one by one:
Extrusion is the most common process for manufacturing T-slot aluminum profiles. First, select a suitable aluminum alloy billet (including aluminum alloy, aluminum alloy, aluminum alloy, etc.), heat it to a certain temperature, and then feed it into the die of the extruder.
After that, under a specific amount of pressure, the die extrudes the aluminum billet into a profile with a T-shaped cross-section.
The extruded aluminum profile is cooled and stretched to achieve the required size and hardness. During the cooling process, the aluminum profile gradually cools and solidifies, while stretching can further improve its mechanical properties.
The extruded aluminum profiles need to be cut according to actual needs. The cutting can be performed using a saw or cutting machine.
Saw machines have simple cutting operations and are suitable for small-volume production and individual processing needs while cutting machines have fast cutting speeds and are suitable for mass production and efficient processing.
According to different requirements and sizes, aluminum profiles can be cut to the required length or angle as needed for subsequent processing and assembly.
Drilling holes in the aluminum profiles is typically required when producing T-slot aluminum extrusions.
Drilling can be done using a drill press or a drill bit. When drilling, the location, diameter and depth of the hole need to be determined according to the design requirements. The accuracy of these parameters directly affects the subsequent use of aluminum profiles.
After the drilling is completed, the drilling needs to be inspected to ensure that its size and position meet the design requirements.
Milling is a process performed to process special shapes or sizes of T-slot aluminum extrusions.
Milling is usually performed using a milling machine or milling cutter to cut and remove part of the material from the surface of the aluminum to achieve the shape and size required by the design.
Milling can realize the processing of complex shapes, such as precise processing of T-shaped grooves, surface leveling, etc., and is one of the important processes for manufacturing high-precision aluminum profiles.
Through the above process steps, T-slot aluminum profiles with certain strength and precision can be manufactured for use in various structural and assembly applications.
T-slot aluminum extrusions are a widely used structural profile that need accessories in a variety of applications to achieve different connection, fixation, and support requirements.
Below, we will introduce common T-slot aluminum profile accessories and how to correctly install various accessories.
There are many different and abundant T-slot aluminum profile accessories available, such as T-nuts, angle connectors, balancing weights, end caps, connecting plates, sliders, angle irons, handles, and so on.
These accessories play an important role in structural assembly and functional realization. They provide a variety of possibilities for the application of T-slot aluminum profiles.
Moreover, these accessories can be selected and combined according to specific application needs to achieve different functions and requirements.
For instance, you can construct a sturdy frame structure by selecting the appropriate corner connectors and connecting plates, and you can make the components simple to move and work with by selecting the appropriate sliders and handles.
Therefore, a reasonable combination of accessories can give full play to the advantages and functions of T-slot aluminum extrusions and meet various complex engineering and assembly needs.
The installation method of T-slot aluminum profile accessories mainly includes three steps: insertion, alignment, and fixation.
First, select appropriate accessories (T-nuts, corner joints, angle connectors, etc.) and installation tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, fixing glue, adjustment washers, etc.) as needed. This is a prerequisite for correct installation.
Second, insert the chosen accessory into the notch or port of the T-slot. It should be noted that the accessories should be aligned with the T-slot aluminum profile. You can use auxiliary tools, such as adjusting washers, to adjust the position of the accessories.
Lastly, to make sure it is dependable and secure, employ fastening accessories like bolts, screws, or glue. To ensure the fixing effect and safety, the choice of fixing accessories should be made based on the accessories features as well as the use environment.
After installation, it is best to check the structure again to ensure that the accessories are firmly installed to avoid safety hazards caused by looseness or instability. Properly installed accessories can improve the stability and safety of the structure.
In short, T-slot aluminum extrusions, as a multi-functional material, have a wide range of applications in various fields.
They not only have excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance, but also have good processing performance and assembly performance, which can meet the needs of different industries.
Through the introduction of this article, you can have a more comprehensive understanding of the characteristics and advantages of T-slot aluminum extrusions.
When selecting T-slot aluminum extrusions, factors such as their standards and specifications, materials and surface treatments need to be taken into consideration to ensure that the needs of the project are met.
With the continuous development of technology and the expansion of application fields, T-slot aluminum extrusions will have broader development space. They will play an increasingly important role in future development, bringing more convenience and innovation to all walks of life.
Can you truly improve whats already been the accepted and established product and process for nearly 50 years?
Depending on your application, absolutely.
For decades, modular aluminum systems have been synonymous with T-slot extruded profiles. Unknown to many, a similar-but-different system has been in use across a growing number of industries. Called AngleLock, its components are built to eliminate frustrations related to lack of precision, reliability, and joint strength that T-slot users know too well.
Below well explain the basic differences between traditional T-slot aluminum and its best-kept secret competitor. Then well review each metal framing system in six key project criteria, and pick a winner.
Aluminum Structural Framing Systems: Wait, Theres a Difference?
Since you may not have known other structural framing solutions existed, lets separate whats alternative vs. traditional. First, recall the characteristics of the tried-and-mostly-true T-slot profile:
Traditional T-Slots
T-slotted components are a standard of framing design.
As you probably know, a T-slots fasteners are perpendicular to the profile. What you may not be aware of is that theres large clearance between the bolt and the hole of the bracket. Because of this clearance, T-slot systems work as a pivot, relying on friction to maintain alignment.
T-slots are:
Created via
A modular design used with a variety of components
By far the more widely known solution
The Emerging T-Slot Alternative
Because of concerns with T-slots longstanding limitations, more manufacturers are considering a new (but not as new as you think) contender in aluminum extruded components.
Here are its basics:
Nearly identical manufacturing process
Often lumped together with T-slots
Emerging, growing market
A 100% unique approach to structural support
That last point is the big one. What makes this not-quite-a-T-slot simply called AngleLock because theres no generic version of it so distinct?
(AngleLock is similar in appearance but very different in performance)
It starts with aluminum extrusion technology that connects profiles via self-aligning brackets with angled bolts.
This change to the formula results in five planes of anchoring, which in turn allow for a non-moveable structure. It eliminates all pivot points by creating a mechanical lock.
Compare this to a T-slot, which makes contact with the assembly in a single direction. It relies on friction to secure the joint.
Where does your application come in? When used correctly, this self-aligning tech can create across-the-board improvement for many kinds of projects.
Review: T-Slots Aluminum Structural Framing vs. Technology
To get an idea of where AngleLock framing system technology stands vs. traditional solutions, consider what your project might value most:
Strength
Precision
Versatility
Service life
Cost
Lead time
1. Strength
Any aluminum modular structural project enters the factory floor with an M.O. of marrying strength with lightweight design. However, the tradeoff only works to a certain point.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Aluminium T-slot Profiles. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
T-Slot Strength
The very function of a T-slot in a framing assembly is problematic for achieving reliable strength.
An example is a custom extruded bracket cut with a saw. The manufacturer then machines it on a standard, three-axis CNC machine center to drill holes with generous clearance perpendicular to bracket/profile mating surface.
Because the joint relies on the clamp load of the bolts to create friction, it can easily shift any direction perpendicular to the bolt axis. As a result, the assembly only draws a fraction of the strength potential of the profile.
It turns out strength is about much more than just the material itself
AngleLock Strength
This T-slot alternatives bracket starts with a similar, but more thoroughly engineered custom extrusion.
The maker then machines the bracket on a five-axis (or more) CNC center to drill the angled holes and mill the precision locating features. Then the manufacturer adds corner radii and edge breaks so there are no stress risers on the component.
Working with a standard 40 mm (1.57 in.) profile, you wont see much difference between the two structural systems in a simple, static application. The results start to diverge as your application becomes more complex or dynamic, as the AngleLock systems mechanical lock creates a joint as stiff as a weldment.
The joint is much stronger, able to use the full strength potential of the profile, unlike a T-slot system.
Winner:
AngleLock, in most applications
2. Precision
Keep this in mind as you continue: Connection is the most important part of a structural assembly.
T-slot and AngleLock components are so similar on the surface that they even look alike to the untrained eye. Look under the hood and at the connections, though, and youll see a truckload of difference.
T-Slot Precision
T-slot use creates a pivot in the assembly. Brackets are able to move around because of the clearance in the bolt hole. Tightening the component also forces the assembly apart from its once-precise alignment as it distorts the T-slot.
In a static environment one without movement or vibration a traditional framing extrusion works just fine. However, in a more demanding environment, the system may experience:
Misalignment
Loosening
Reduced ability to handle stress
AngleLock Precision
Remember the emphasis on connection?
AngleLock supports structural assemblies by borrowing a design concept popular in:
Aerospace
Architecture
Trucking
Think of a Boeing 747 each plane has 80,000 solid rivets. When the builders hammer them in, they expand and fill the space, and theres no clearance. Theres a tightly bonded, solid connection.
(Click the screenshot for a video blog showing the function of an AngleLock connection.)
Why? Because the system uses angled bolts that pull the brackets locating shoulder against the slot of the profile (which youll see in the video above). If a load forces the bracket to move at all, the angled bolts act as springs to pull it right back against the profiles locating surface.
Compare the list of T-slot tolerance issues above with what you see in AngleLock parts:
Precise mechanical bond
Tightening actually further bonds the component
Even vibrations tighten the connection!
In low-intensity applications, these two framing solutions provide similar results. But when you need heavy-duty structural aluminum framing for a dynamic (moving) assembly, the difference is obvious.
Winner:
Draw for static uses; AngleLock for dynamic uses
3. Versatility
Modular aluminum structural framing systems should be flexible across situations and uses. After all, theyre modular for a reason, right?
T-Slot Versatility
Lets start with the good. T-slot extrusions have been around since , so theres no shortage of battle-tested solutions with them. Because there are many highly similar profiles, check with the suppliers engineers to ensure their solution fits your project to a T (no pun intended).
Along with a much wider profile variety, theres also more cross- and backward-compatibility. For example, you can easily mix and match brackets from the popular 80/20 and Bosch framing systems.
Now for the bad: The already-outlined issues with traditional aluminum T-slots limits their range of applications. Most successful uses are in static situations where you dont have to worry about the framing system falling apart 3 years prematurely.
AngleLock Versatility
Since these products are limited to a single manufacturer and have a shorter history, there are fewer profiles from which to choose. And while theyre compatible with T-slot modular framing system components, mixing and matching isnt quite as simple.
There is, however, a unique way AngleLock framing systems score high in flexibility. Like welded framing components (another solution commonly compared to AngleLock), the system acts as a single piece. However unlike welded framing you can take apart AngleLock assemblies.
(Work-in-progress conveyor assembly)
Then, of course, theres the situational flexibility this newer extrusion technology provides. Its uses in heavy-duty industries include, but arent limited to:
Winner:
Draw
4. Service Life Maintenance & Replacement
Hopefully you look at a products useful life in two ways: maintenance (short-term) and replacement (long-term). The first helps delay the second, but ideally your aluminum extrusion framing system offers some of both.
T-Slot Lifetime
Do you have a maintenance guy coming in once a month to tighten 200 bolts on the framing of a robot enclosure?
Its a ridiculous notion, but one thats all too real with T-slot extrusions.
Because T-slots rely on friction to hold a system together, theyre prone to disruption from outside forces. Continued movement loosens the framing system over time, eventually causing it to fall apart.
If youve watched light curtains slowly sag until theyre unusable, you may be missing opportunities to reduce maintenance and increase product lifetime.
You may also be overlooking a safety concern.
A T-slotted framing assembly typically needs more bracing compared to alternative solutions. That bracing makes it harder to access the areas of the machine that require maintenance.
AngleLock Service Life
While you cant predict a pivot that relies on friction, you can predict a mechanically bonded framing system.
Because it avoids unnecessary wear and loosening, this type of aluminum modular framing can dramatically extend the structures service life. This is particularly true for high-wear applications involving movement and vibration. And because the self-aligning framing components tighten over time, they all but eliminate the need for maintenance.
If for some reason you do need to check on the assembly, the reduced bracing makes access easier and safer.
As a bonus, AngleLock allows for easier use of Finite Element Analysis due to the predictable, bonded nature of its joints. Especially with critical-use components, its valuable to ensure your aluminum extrusion framing can handle the pressure of real-world use.
Winner:
AngleLock by a mile
5. Cost
Theres no one-step explanation or comparison for the cost of aluminum extrusion framing systems. Plenty of factors contribute to production, assembly, and upkeep costs.
T-Slot Cost
If your extrusion framings up-front cost is your only concern, T-slot will often win the debate. On the occasions they end up more expensive, its because the application required more brackets to achieve a similar level of performance.
Another cost driver for T-slot? Time (which well discuss more in a bit). The structure takes more time to:
Align
Assemble
Realign
Post-construction costs are another, much scarier story. Since T-slot aluminum framing requires consistent maintenance, higher risk of production delays, and more frequent replacement, the long-term costs often outweigh initial construction costs.
AngleLock Cost
This structural framing system is the go-to for lowering life-cycle costs.
The self-aligning marriage of brackets, bolts, and nuts keeps your framing secure for years to come. Thats why the up-front cost is sometimes higher because you wont need another modular framing system for a long, long time. Youre also paying more up-front for the instant improvements in quality:
Highly engineered components
Tighter tolerances
Advanced manufacturing techniques
Occasionally, there are also cases where AngleLock is more cost-effective up-front because it could accomplish certain specs with fewer components. AngleLock structures can also be assembled in 50% of the time, which can deliver additional project savings.
Winner:
T-slot for quick-and-dirty jobs; AngleLock for long-term success and assembly-intensive jobs.
6. Lead Time
Speaking of quick and dirty Is your company in constant fire drill mode? Or is quality atop your list when vetting suppliers?
T-Slot Lead Time
No matter where you are in the United States, T-slot stock is readily available. And since theres a massive library of profile types, its nearly a guarantee you can get exactly what you want ASAP.
Assembly of those parts may require a little more lead time. Not all T-slots use the same sizes of brackets and nuts. Hopefully the suppliers catalog tells you which brackets and nuts youll need so you dont waste time tracking this down or redoing mistakes.
AngleLock Lead Time
At first glance, the manufacturing process here is nearly the same. Even so, the bigger picture shows an opportunity to speed up an underappreciated factor in lead times assembly of the modular framing.
On an AngleLock extrusion framing system, nearly all bolts are the same size on a given application. Integration looks like this:
You buy it
Open the box
Its already self-aligning
Youre done.
Thats it. The unpackaging-to-assembly process is about 2x faster than with T-slots. Whats more, AngleLock framing components are pre-assembled with all necessary hardware, whereas some T-slot suppliers sell and send brackets, nuts, and bolts separately.
The obvious downside is that there arent multiple suppliers or distributors for these parts. And again, the library of profile types is comparatively small (but growing). If you need an overwhelming volume of components, or you have several custom needs, lead time may exceed what youre used to.
One redeeming aspect of including AngleLock in your supply chain is that you can often skip the middleman. The ability to design and manufacture custom brackets means you can receive an aluminum framing system without involving a third-party integrator.
Winner:
T-slots (with an asterisk for complex assemblies and highly custom needs)
The Verdict: Aluminum Structural Framing Systems
Aluminum framing systems support your product, your manufacturing process, and your success. Why wouldnt you explore all options?
You may be able to stick with your current T-slot solution if your:
Application is low-intensity
Up-front budget is strapped
Application uses a wide variety of immediately available components
Consider a switch to another aluminum framing system if youre:
Held to tight tolerance specs
Seeking reliable strength
Losing productivity to downtime
Serious about product quality and innovative solutions
Curious about where your project fits into the debate? Learn more about optimizing your structural aluminum framing system here:
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Conveyor aluminum profiles supplier.