T-slot structural framing

T-Slot extrusion is not invented by 80/20 inc, its design can be found in a 1964 patent

Cross-section of 80/20 T-slotted profiles, 10 and 15 series

Examples of T-slotted profiles

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 true inventor of T-slot extrusion is still unknown, it was not invented by the company 80/20. Inc or item gmbh.

T-slot extrusion design can at least be founded in a 1964 US patent(US3143981A) invented by Leslie E Tassell.

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.

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

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  CAD model of a rotating T-slot nut used with aluminium T-slots/ T-track/ extrusions
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  T-nut (red) installed in a T-slot

See also

• T-slot nut
• Strut channel