A major advantage of using modular aluminum framing over welded steel is that the t-slot that allows infinite mounting locations for accessories. Common examples of these are in-fill panels, interlock switches, pneumatic or electronic components, mechanical components, etc. Depending on the profile series chosen you can select a wide variety of thread sizes to best fit the component you are trying to mount. The hardware is typically categorized by a t-slot width designation within the product ID that will allow a fast understanding of commonality with a particular profile size.
Ex: TN10M6 - a t-nut for the 10mm wide t-slot that is found on 40mm profiles and up and will show a symbol. Also, this t-nut has an M6 thread and will work on any profile showing the corresponding t-slot symbol allowing fast reference.
Once the t-slot width is identified it’s a simple choice for thread size based on the component being mounted & the style of fastener desired. The most common fastener type is the t-nut. This is a post-assembly or drop-in style that can be inserted anywhere the t-slot is available. This series nut has an elliptical shoulder which, with a 90° turn, aligns within the upper portion of the t-slot & locks into the t-slot with a strong, vibration proof & electrically conductive connection.
Roll-in or Drop-in t-slot nuts function in a similar fashion with the additional benefit of having either a leaf-spring, ball-spring or set-screw for retaining their position in the t-slot. This is very beneficial when used for mounting table-tops or surface mounted plates as you don’t want these fasteners to move when the top is unbolted. These also hold their position when used in a vertical t-slot & won’t slide down or fall out.
T-Bolts are commonly used & function just as the t-nuts do in that they have a similar shaped head with the locking feature & a male thread available in various lengths. Use the –“W” suffix & a flange nut will be included to assist in the mounting of your clad-on panel or other equipment. As you can see below, here are all the aluminum fastener types we carry.
Fastener Types We Carry
T-Nuts:
-Different components can be fastened to the t-slot. This could be removable panels, switches, etc.
-The t-nuts have serrations that will provide a secure and electrically conductive connection.
Roll-in T-nuts (Ball-Spring):
-Made for metric profiles.
-They “roll” into position along the t-slot, instead of having to slide in from the end.
-There is a ball-spring plunger for setting a maintained position along a vertical t-slot.
Roll-in T-nuts (Leaf-Spring):
- Made for metric and inch profiles.
- They “roll” into position along the t-slot, instead of having to slide in from the end.
- There is a leaf-spring for setting a maintained position along a vertical t-slot.
Square T-nuts:
-Made for metric profiles.
-There is a square style t-nut plate that has a threaded hole on the center for light duty holding applications.
-Must be slide in from end of the profile
Drop-in T-nuts (Leaf-spring):
-Made for inch profiles
-They “drop-in” into position along the t-slot, instead of having to slide in from the end.
-T-nut has a leaf-spring for setting a maintained position along a vertical t-slot.
Drop-in T-nuts (Ball-Spring):
-Made for inch profiles.
-They “roll” into position along the t-slot, instead of having to slide in from the end.
-The t-nut has a ball-spring plunger for setting a maintained position along the vertical t-slot.
Drop-in T-nuts (Set Screw):
-Made for inch profiles.
-This drop-in style T-nut is great for heavy duty holding or mounting applications.
-The set screw holds the T-nut securely in both vertical and horizontal orientations.
T-slot Nuts (Slide-in):
-Made for metric profiles.
-This “stepped” T-slot nut has a large surface area that can be used for any heavy duty holding or mounting applications.
-Can only be slid in from the end of the profile.
Standard T-nuts:
-Made for inch profiles.
-Standard T-nut that is used for heavy duty holding or mounting applications.
-Must be slid in from the end of the profile.
Economy T-nuts:
-Made for inch profiles.
-Slide-in style T-nut that can be used for any light duty application.
Double Economy T-nuts:
-Made for inch profiles.
-This economical slide-in T-nut can be used for any light duty holding or mounting application.
T-bolts:
-Made for both metric and inch profiles.
-Useful for fastening panels or components to the T-slot.
-Serrations provide an electrically conductive and vibration proof connection.
-Can be used as a grounding lug for ESD applications.