T-Slots | Panels and Doors

Panels and Doors for T-Slot

One of the many advantages of t-slot aluminum framing systems is that it has many types of panels, doors, and accessories. In industrial environments, panels and doors, in many cases, are the difference between life and death. They protect operators in robotic cells, guard machines, and much more. They are also used in solutions such as communication boards, sneeze guards, and enclosures.

T-Slot doors can be added to various applications and made from different materials. Standard or electric locks can be added for extra security if needed, like in lock-out-tag-out (LOTO) situations. Below we have listed panel materials by their characteristics to help you decide what is best for your application.

Optical Clarity

For solutions that require visibility, panels made with polycarbonate and acrylic are best. 

Weather Resistance

Panels and doors that will be exposed to the elements should be made from twin-wall polycarbonate, aluminum composite, acrylic, or expanded PVC. 

Chemical Resistance

For areas that chemicals will be present, panels and doors should be made from HDPE, ESD polycarbonate, aluminum plate, aluminum or lite aluminum composite, or expanded PVC.

Impact Resistance

For applications where impact is a possibility, polycarbonate, phenolic resin, aluminum plate, and aluminum composite are preferable.

Aesthetics

Panels and doors used in settings where aesthetics may be a concern, textured materials such as HDPE, ABS hair cell, diamond tread plate, or polyvinyl chloride can be used. 

T-Slot Panels

Before choosing a panel, the following questions regarding the application need to be answered.

1. Will the panel material be used to keep things in or out? 
2. Will the material be wire mesh?
3. Will the panel material be changed out often?
4. Will this application be indoors or outdoors?

With t-slotted aluminum profiles, panels can be mounted one of two ways: slid into the t-slot channel or mounted on the outside of the profile. When mounting panel material, there are several hardware options to choose from:

Panel Retainers: These are used to hold panels or wire mesh. Each has its own benefits. Both are strong, cost-effective, corrosion-resistant, and can be used indoors or outdoors. The difference between the two types is that panel retainers will require drilling the panel. The mesh retainers include a backing plate, slotted holes for adjustment, and require no machining.

Panel Blocks: Blocks are perfect for mounting the panel material to the t-slot profile. This mounting hardware provides stability, reduces vibration, and comes in aluminum or nylon.

Panel Gaskets: This hardware is used to prevent the panel from rattling. It is a great finishing touch to an application. Only one gasket is needed on one side of the panel.  

T-Slot Doors: Glides, Rollers, Hinges, Handles, and Locks

T-slotted framing allows for multiple door options for any application. 

Rollers: Wheels can be mounted directly to the t-slot profile end or channel. These are good for guided linear motion and are made of nylon which is self-lubricating. They have a permanently lubricated bushing that reduces cost and maintenance.

Hinges: With t-slotted aluminum, there are numerous hinge options. Hinges come in different styles, materials, and sizes. They can be mounted directly to the profile or panel and are made from either plastic, zinc, or aluminum. Plastic hinges are generally used for lightweight doors, whereas aluminum hinges are used for heavy-duty door solutions.

Handles and Locks: Door locks should be chosen on how often the door will be used. If accessed frequently, consider a lock and handle that is ergonomic and easy to lock and unlock. Handles can be mounted flush or offset, so they are out of the way. For oversized doors, heavy-duty latches can be utilized. To ensure a secure door connection, magnetic catches can be installed. 

Glides: Glides are used in the t-channel of the aluminum profile. They bolt directly to the profile end and freely rotate. 

Helpful Tips When Ordering Paneled Applications and Doors 

When ordering panels and doors, follow the tips below to help with the designing and building of your solution.

• Provide a sketch or use the company’s design quoter.
• Always indicate the orientation of the panel.
• Specify if the door will be locked.
• Indicate how panels will be mounted and ensure the correct hardware.

If you have further questions about panel material and door solutions for your next t-slot project, please contact us.