Aluminum Profile Framing Systems

[tommo]

Hi,

My company uses a particular brand of aluminum profile system, which is quite brilliant, but we are having trouble with the distributor.

We are looking to find another profile supplier, but I want to ask the community either recommended brands - or things to watch out for.

I really don't want to change from the current brand, as the connector system that they use is the strongest, simplest and best I have seen.

We use aluminum profile for machine frames that go into clean room environments, the maximium size we use currently is 100x100mm (4" x 4"). A big plus when using framing is the lack of finishing required and the anodized surfaces hold up well.

Most aluminum profile manfacturers are German - is there any USA manufacturers?

 

[smcadman]

You did not say who you are using, but I will recommend 80/20, "The Industrial Erector Set.

http://www.8020.net/Default.asp

They have anodized aluminum extrusions in various sizes and shapes, in metric and inches, and also the various connectors and hardware required.

I also noticed that you use Solidworks, and you can downlad the parts inside SW.
Design Library > 3D Content Central > Structural Systems > 80/20 Inc.



Flores

 

[tommo]

Thanks smcadman,

I checked the site and will look into it further. I did not want to mention what manufacturer I am using just yet - but they also have CAD downloads etc. which work well.

I think the key to any of these profile systems is the connector systems. Some which require you to drill the profile for screws are really poor - and you may not be able to re-use the profile later.

Thanks!