Why choose 80/20 aluminum extrusions?
80/20 offers a proven T-slot aluminum extrusion system designed for flexibility, durability, and speed. With a wide range of aluminum extrusion profiles, T-slot framing components, and accessories, plus free design assistance, you can quickly build, modify, and scale custom structures without welding. It’s an ideal solution for machine frames, workstations, automation systems, and modular structures.
What are the long-term benefits of aluminum extrusion systems?
Aluminum extrusion framing systems provide long-term flexibility, scalability, and reusability, reducing labor and material costs over time. Unlike welded steel, modular aluminum extrusion systems can be reconfigured, reused, and expanded, making them a cost-effective solution for lean manufacturing, automation, and material handling applications.
What size aluminum extrusion do I need?
The right aluminum extrusion profile size depends on load requirements, span length, and application. Larger profiles (such as 4040 aluminum extrusion) provide greater strength and rigidity, while smaller profiles (like 2020 aluminum extrusion) are ideal for lightweight frames, enclosures, and workstations. For best results, consult load data on product pages or
request design assistance.
How much weight can aluminum extrusions support?
80/20 aluminum extrusions are engineered for industrial-strength structural applications. Load capacity varies by profile size, span length, and connection method. For accurate performance, review our aluminum extrusion
deflection calculator or work with our team to validate your design.
What is the lead time for aluminum extrusion orders?
Many standard aluminum extrusion profiles and T-slot components are in stock and ready to ship quickly. Custom aluminum extrusions, machining services, or large-volume orders may require additional lead time. For more information, refer to our
shipping schedule.
How easy is it to assemble 80/20 aluminum extrusions?
80/20’s bolt-together T-slot aluminum extrusion system is designed for fast, simple assembly using standard hand tools like hex keys and wrenches. No welding or specialized labor is required, making it easy to build custom aluminum frames, workstations, and structures.
Can I modify or expand my aluminum extrusion frame later?
Yes. 80/20 aluminum extrusion systems are fully modular, allowing you to adjust, expand, or reconfigure your T-slot framing system at any time. This flexibility makes aluminum extrusions ideal for automation upgrades, production changes, and evolving manufacturing needs.
What accessories are available for aluminum extrusion systems?
80/20 offers a complete ecosystem of aluminum extrusion
accessories, including fasteners, brackets, joining plates, panels, hinges, casters, and handles—everything needed to complete your T-slot aluminum framing system for industrial and commercial applications.
What finishes are available for aluminum extrusions?
80/20 aluminum extrusions are typically available in clear anodized, black anodized, and yellow anodized finishes, providing enhanced durability, corrosion resistance, and a clean, professional appearance. Additional custom finishes and coated aluminum extrusions are also
available upon request.
Do I need engineering or design support?
Simple builds using aluminum extrusion framing systems can often be completed independently. For more complex or load-bearing applications, 80/20 provides free
design assistance to help optimize your T-slot aluminum structure for strength, cost, and performance.
Are there drawing files available for aluminum extrusions?
Yes. CAD files for aluminum extrusion profiles are available for almost all products through
our CAD Library or directly on product pages, making it easy to integrate T-slot aluminum extrusions into your design or engineering workflow.
How are aluminum extrusions connected?
Aluminum extrusions are connected using T-slot fasteners, brackets, and joining plates. Connection methods include internal fasteners for a clean look or external brackets for added strength, depending on your structural requirements and design preferences.
Do I need custom machining for aluminum extrusions?
Not always. Many projects can be assembled using standard aluminum extrusion components and T-slot accessories. However, custom machining (cutting, drilling, tapping) can improve efficiency and simplify complex builds. Contact our team for
custom aluminum extrusion products.
What industries use aluminum extrusion framing systems?
Aluminum extrusion framing systems are widely used in manufacturing, automation, robotics, aerospace, automotive, healthcare, 3D printing, material handling, cleanrooms, and data centers, where modularity and flexibility are critical.
Are aluminum extrusions better than welded steel?
For many applications, aluminum extrusion framing is a better alternative to welded steel. It offers lighter weight, corrosion resistance, faster assembly, and modular reconfiguration, making it ideal for custom frames, machine bases, and industrial structures that require flexibility.
What is T-slot aluminum and why is it used?
T-slot aluminum is an aluminum extrusion profile with integrated channels (T-slots) that allow components to slide and lock into place. This enables modular construction, quick assembly, and easy modifications, making it widely used for machine frames, workstations, enclosures, and automation systems.