Modular aluminum extrusions from Robotunits. Source: RobotunitsModular aluminum extrusions from Robotunits. Source: RobotunitsAs a flexible and functional framing solution, the modular T-slot aluminum extrusion system has gained widespread adoption in industry. Aluminum extrusions are now common framing structures in industrial automation, material handling and machine safeguarding applications, forming the skeletons of everything from machine bases and conveyor systems to cabinets and workstations.

Among the many extrusion systems on the market is one by Austrian firm Robotunits on display at the New York Manufacturing Conference 2019 in Troy, New York. Robotunits offers a unique T-slot extrusion and fastening technology that underpins what the company calls its universal, standardized modular automation system.

Smart extrusion and fastening technology

The company’s extrusion system is designed to offer maximum flexibility with the smallest number of parts. Compared to competitors, Robotunits’ extrusion system features a larger slot measuring 14 mm wide x 14 mm deep. Extrusions are available in 40 mm and 50 mm widths but a common 14 mm slot size ensures compatibility with any fastener or bracket in the system. The fastening technology eliminates machining operations like drilling and milling and allows quick disassembly of connections to reconfigure frames for new applications or plant setups. The T-slot’s concave surface resists vibration while the tubular honeycomb structure of the extrusion offers excellent strength under torsion and load.

A drop-in nut for Robotunits’ 14 mm T-slot extrusion system. Source: Eric OlsonA drop-in nut for Robotunits’ 14 mm T-slot extrusion system. Source: Eric Olson

The key to the fastening technology is Robotunits’ drop-in nut. This self-centering part is easily installed by hand by dropping it into the T-slot and then rotating it 90° to lock it into place. This rotation compresses a leaf spring at the base of the nut against the concave extrusion surface of the aluminum profile, preventing unintentional movement. A screw is then turned into the nut, securing components to the extrusion. The joint offers strength on par with a welded connection and the galvanized steel drop-in nut withstands pull-out forces up to 6000 N.

The drop-in nut resting in the T-slot following insertion (left) and locked in place after 90° rotation (right). Source: Eric OlsonThe drop-in nut resting in the T-slot following insertion (left) and locked in place after 90° rotation (right). Source: Eric Olson

Modular components and systems

The extrusion system can be fit with a broad assortment of accessories including elbow joints, corner brackets, fixing brackets, floor brackets, anchor bolts, cable blocks, hooks, end caps, leveling bases and swivel castors. These accessories are compatible with any component in Robotunits’ entire modular automation system line of products. This is possible because the uniform 14 mm T-slot design of the extrusion system serves as the foundation for the whole breadth of offerings.

Elements of Robotunits’ modular automation system. Clockwise from top left: belt conveyors, linear motion systems, safety fence, T-slot extrusions and fasteners. Source: RobotunitsElements of Robotunits’ modular automation system. Clockwise from top left: belt conveyors, linear motion systems, safety fence, T-slot extrusions and fasteners. Source: Robotunits

The company has a range of belt conveyor systems that are customizable to fit specific applications, each containing the versatile 14 mm T-slot. The just-in-time belt conveyor system comes in standard widths ranging from 40 to 1200 mm with speeds from 2.6 to 67 m/min. Custom made orders are shipped in three to five days. Also available are timing belt conveyors, modular belt conveyors and special order accumulating, vacuum or magnetic conveyors.

Other products include modular linear motion systems featuring guide rails that are easily installed in the T-slot extrusions after assembly. Safety fence systems designed to prevent injury by separating people and machines are capable of stopping up to 80 kg of mass traveling 10 km/h. The barriers are comprised of prefabricated fence elements that fit into the extrusion framing for simple and quick one-person assembly.

[Discover aluminum framing systems and modular framing systems on Engineering360.]