ALUMINUM EXTRUSION TSLOT CONNECTORS
If you’ve read our other fastener articles, T-Slot Aluminum: Fasteners and T-Slotted Aluminum Extrusions and Fasteners, then you have a good understanding of the part fasteners play in t-slot framing systems.
Fasteners and connectors help to create strong, quick joints. One of the advantages of using t-slot is that there is no need to weld them together. In turn, this allows for t-slot to be easily reconfigured. Below we will dive into connectors, give the specifics, and explain when they are needed.
TSlot Connector and Fastener Bolt and Screw Options
To help connectors do their job properly, bolts and screws are needed. Below we have listed bolt and screw options with their links and specifications.
Button Head Socket Cap Screw: These screws have a circular head with a drive hole (hex key or Allen wrench). This screw is made of stainless steel (304 or 316), has a clean head, and comes in various sizes.
Flanged Button Head Socket Cap Screws: This screw is like a regular button head except for its flange at the head that provides increased surface bearing area.
Flathead Socket Cap Screw: This type of screw is best used when there is insufficient clearance for sockets or wrenches. Also, it sits more flush against the surface.
Socket Head Cap Screw and Low head Socket Cap Screw: These high-strength, precision screws are used where head height is an issue.
Self-Tapping Connecting Screws: This screw connects two profiles and doesn’t require a thread cutter. The underside of the head has teeth to cut into the aluminum.
TSlot Connectors: What Are They?
Connectors help to hold t-slot profiles together, and in some ways, are considered an external fastener. They help make stronger joints in a t-slot frame as well as help to create connections that are hidden. Connectors also help to reduce the need for machining the profile.
TSlot Connector Types
Depending on the company, connectors come in different styles. At Parco, our products are compatible with other t-slot systems, so you can get what you need from us if you can’t find it elsewhere.
From screw connectors to brackets and gussets, these external fasteners are either used alone or in addition to other fasteners. Some different types of connectors include:
Screw Connectors: This is the most basic connector, which holds two profiles together with a bolt.
Cubic Connectors: This connector holds three profiles in a corner like a cube.
Plate Connectors: A plate connector will help in joining plates to profiles
Anchor Fastener Connectors: Can provide non-right angle and right-angle connections.
Milling Connector: Allows fast connection of two profiles, requires no machining.
Universal Connector: Connects profiles without the need for extra machining.
Outer Brackets: T and L brackets can be placed on the profile’s face with bolts to strengthen joints under heavy loads.
Corner Brackets: Helps to create 90-degree connections.
The primary purpose of connectors is to help construct joints and connections between extrusions. Unlike fasteners, they do not have the capability of assisting in attaching accessories and hardware to the profiles as some fasteners do. To see our full selection, feel free to visit the links below.
We understand you may be tempted to purchase your connectors, fasteners, bolts, and screws from non-aluminum extrusion companies due to affordability; however, it’s important that you do not do that when designing your solution. The hardware we sell is designed and tested for aluminum t-slot framing systems. We offer free design advice and our design quoter which has all fasteners and connectors already uploaded to help you create your t-slot solution.
We strive to get you the products you need for your solution. That’s why we do not have a minimum order policy. So, if you only need a few things, we’ve got you covered.
Contact us today and let us help you with any questions you may have, or feel free to shop online with us.
