T-slot structural framing

Examples of T-slotted profiles
1964 patent demonstrating early use of extruded T-slot members.
Cross-section of 80/20 T-slotted profiles, 10 and 15 series
A bicycle trailer for bike-trekking with three Euroboxes and aluminium profile framing

T-slot structural framing is a framing system consisting of lengths of square or rectangular extruded aluminium, typically 6105-T5 aluminium alloy, with a T-slot down the centerline of one or more sides.

It is also known under several generic names, such as aluminium extrusion, aluminium profile and 2020 extrusion if the cross-section is 20x20 mm, alongside brand names, such as 80/20 framing.[1]

While the precise history of the T-slot framing system is not known, advancement in extrusion press technology in the early 1950s allowed for economic production of aluminium profiles,[2] and examples of use can be found from the early 1960s.[3]

Although no published standard defines the system, it is produced in a series of conventional sizes which allows for compatibility between manufacturers.

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.

  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.
  2. ^ Bauser, M; Sauer, G; Siegert, K (2006). Extrusion (2 ed.). Materials Park, Ohio: ASM International. p. 6. ISBN 978-0-87170-837-3.
  3. ^ US patent US3143981A, Leslie E Tassell, "Demountable partition", published 1964-08-11, issued 1964-08-11, assigned to Tassell Hardware Co