Hey guys i was wondering if anyone knows if we are able to use steel on for our frame instead of the metal given in the kit? I couldn’t find this anywhere in the manual so thats why i ask.
Thanks, Dani.
Steel is a commonly used product by many teams. You do not have to use the kitbot provided in the kit of parts. As long as it fulfills all of the rules for it to be a COTS item, then it is legal.
Yep. Just don’t steal your steel.
you can use steel, but it will be heavy. the kit frame is a good frame to use, we’ve been using it for the past 2 years and will be using it again this year.
Even better, check the Parts Use Flowchart at the end of the Robot section of the manual. That holds all the answers.
ok thanks a lot guys.
And also make sure that you still can come in under the weight limit. That never a good thing trying to lose 1-2 LBS on Thursday at a regional.
You could make a frame just as stiff and strong as any aluminum frame if you could afford some 4130 tube, you know. It’s 3 times the density, modulus, and yield as 6061 and anyone with a MIG can weld it. Now, it’s also at least 3 times the cost…
Or 20 or 30 lbs…
Dani,
If steel is your only choice, then it is perfectly legal.
As others have stated, there are lighter options, and in a few weeks you may be looking hard for a few pouinds, so it might be better to go with something lighter now.
The kit bot frame is good and strong and lightweight. If you have the capability to weld, aluminum tube (usually square or rectangle) is a great choice.
This might be a good material to practice using the material flow chart on - you should come out with the answer that it is OK to use.
I agree, if you can get your hands on some chromoly (4130) it is really good stuff. We got a bunch for free last year and it did a great job of keeping our frame from ripping apart when lifting 300lbs of robot!
I feel like there is a joke in the title…