T-slot structural framing

T-slot structural framing, sometimes known as aluminum extrusion, or 2020 extrusion when the cross-section is 20x20 mm, is a framing system consisting of lengths of square or rectangular extruded aluminum, typically 6105-T5 aluminium alloy, with a T-slot down the centerline of one or more sides. The original design for T-slot structural framing is seen in a 1986 US patent (#4,607,972) by Donald C. Hennick. It is also known as 80/20 framing, after the company 80/20, Inc., one of the prominent T-slot framing brands, the name of which is based on the 80/20 or "Pareto" principle.[1] While there is no published standard defining this framing system, manufacturers have settled into two categories of product comprising several series each that is generally intercompatible across manufacturers.

An early patent for modular structures incorporating extruded tee slot members is the 1986 US patent 4607972 by Donald C Hennick
Cross-section of 80/20 T-slotted profiles, 10 and 15 series
Examples of T-slotted profiles

There is a variation on T-slot profiles known as V-slot rails where V-slot wheels are slotted into the V-shaped channels of the framing for linear motion in a 3d printer or other CNC machine.

Profiles

T-slot framing is divided into metric and fractional (imperial) categories. The T-slot is always centered along the long-axis of the piece. Pieces are available in each series with a square cross-section. Rectangular cross sections are available as well which measure x by 2x (where x is the defined width) - e.g. 40mx80mm for 40 series.

Profile
type		 Profile
name		 Profile
size
fractional 10 series 1"
15 series 1.5"
metric 20 series 20 mm
25 series 25 mm
30 series 30 mm
40 series 40 mm
45 series 45 mm
  • CAD model of a rotating T-slot nut used with aluminium T-slots/ T-track/ extrusions
    CAD model of a rotating T-slot nut used with aluminium T-slots/ T-track/ extrusions
  • T-nut (red) installed in a T-slot
    T-nut (red) installed in a T-slot

See also

References
  1. "Find out About Our Mission and Vision Here at 80/20". 8020.net. Archived from the original on 2022-03-06. Retrieved 2022-05-15.
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