Bosch VS IPS Extrusion Systems

[Loren 930]

Tony,

Thank you for clarifying the Bosch / IPS (industrial profile systems) differences. You are correct in saying that IPS is expensive - it is. And it is not available in every state - good point. The biggest complaint I hear about the Bosch system is cost and weight - both extrusions and fasteners. It would be better suited to situations where weight is not a factor.

The good news for this years teams is that "item" (made in Germany and a 25yr old company)is available in the US throughout the country. "item" is not IPS - never was, never will be. "item" has a huge array of sizes, from an 8.5mm x 16mm up to 160x80mm. The most common sizes used by the FIRST teams are 20x20, 20x40, and 30x30. The best (strongest and lightest)fastener is the "automatic" fastener. You can assemble connections without ANY machining whatsoever - no drilling, no tapping, etc. See attached file for basic info. Call 262-363-4800 for more info.

Good Luck!!

Loren
Team 930