Parker’s T-Slot Aluminum Design Architect is a powerful tool that lets the user easily design both simple and complex projects using Parker’s IPS profile. Tutorial 3 covers the procedures to adjust lengths of. High-Speed Steel T-Slot End Mills Use these end mills for general purpose work in most material, such as aluminum, brass, bronze, iron, and steel. They're often used to create slots in machine tool tables. Start with the Parker T-Slot Aluminum Design Architect (TADA). This is a free tool that you can use to design your tables, carts, workstations, enclosures and more. We also have a network of Design Centers located throughout North America that are ready to help you with your design needs using T-slot aluminum framing. All t-slot systems are not the same! Which one you choose depends on your need for customization vs flexibility. Learn more at alineautomation.com. T-Slotted Aluminum Extrusion Our T-Slotted Aluminum Extrusion Lines utilize corrosion resistant 6063-T6 Aluminum Alloy with a clear anodize finish. Not only do our T-Slotted Aluminum Profiles come in a.
There are many reasons to use T-slot aluminum framing, but these are the main reasons: strength, durability and versatility.
A common misconception is that aluminum will not meet structural strength standards. In fact, extruded aluminum possesses a superior strength-to-weight ratio than steel. It is strong enough to handle most structural design applications. Overall, the light-weight structure and structural strength offer to great benefits. It's a cost-effective and easy to use t-slotted framing option.
T Slot aluminum is tough enough for most structural framing applications. Unlike steel, aluminum is rust resistant. The anodized coating on extruded aluminum is a natural coating that prevents rust. Without the worry of rust, there is no need to prime or paint the framing.
Imagine there being infinite design potential. This is true when building with T Slot aluminum. The profiles use modular design principles. This means that they can be removed, adjusted or repositioned using component technology. T-nuts are the core of all components. Alternative connection components will handle most other forms of connections.
In an industrial manufacturing environment, t-slot framing is often used for workstations, machine guarding, enclosures, tables, carts and more. When you have your initial idea for building with t-slot framing, how do you convey the concept? Do you use a piece of paper, CAD or even the famous napkin to sketch out your thoughts?
Traditionally, and still today, the “napkin sketch” method is how most t-slot aluminum framing companies encourage the user to send in information. It is very effective and allows the customer to quickly convey their ideas.
You might notice a trend that takes the customer from the “paper napkin sketch” to the “electronic or digital napkin sketch.” With the increasing use of 3D CAD systems, customers can use electronic tools to create their designs. The user libraries can be downloaded from the web and all the parts and components become available for use in your CAD system. Some companies offer a plug-in to a specific 3D CAD system. This means that their software works with that specific 3D CAD system, which may or may not be the system that you’re using. Other companies offer a standalone tool that can export files into various 3D CAD formats.
Here are a few ways to access these tools:
With so many projects and the time constraints that go along with them, it is important for users to work efficiently. Using an electronic tool to “sketch” your design will allow you to import that assembly into your current project. This is very valuable if it is part of larger machine design. Also, being able to interact with a trusted partner to quickly receive a quote helps with the process of understanding project costs along the way.
Are you ready to take your concept to completion? Start with the Parker T-Slot Aluminum Design Architect (TADA). This is a free tool that you can use to design your tables, carts, workstations, enclosures and more. We also have a network of Design Centers located throughout North America that are ready to help you with your design needs using T-slot aluminum framing.
Parker is making t-slot aluminum framing design easier than ever. For mechanical design engineers, lean manufacturing leaders and do-it-yourselfers, the Parker T-Slot Aluminum Design Architect (TADA) software allows you to take more creative control over your assembly designs. Download your free, fully functional copy today.
Article contributed by Mario Mitchell, product manager for T-slot Aluminum Framing, Electromechanical & Drives Division North America, Parker Hannifin Corporation.