T-slot structural framing
T-slot structural framing 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. 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 principle. 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.
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-nut used with aluminium T-slots/ T-track/ extrusions
T-nut (red) installed in a T-slot