Thread: Structural Framing Strength?
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Unread 25-11-2014, 12:17
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AKA: Bob Hrenchir
FRC #1108 (Panther Robotics)
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Re: Structural Framing Strength?
I've seen lots of teams that use T-slot framing, (brand name 80/20 is popular) but I've never believed it offered any advantage as opposed to aluminum or even steel flat stock and tubing.

As for the drive system frame, if you're a low-resource team, I recommend you consider the kit frame from Andymark. Last year we ran the IM14U and had a very winning season.

And when you use steel tubing, the kids can weld it up in the shop as opposed to sending it somewhere. Anything you can build yourself is a bonus.

I'm interested in the comments of others here, but I just don't see any components that can mount to 80/20 more easily than they could mount to a piece of AL barstock. Lots of wasted strength too. The linear members, it seems to me, will always be way-stronger than the bolted joints.