What Is Modular Framing?
Modular framing consists of standardized structural components that can be assembled into custom configurations using simple fasteners rather than welding. These systems rely on extruded aluminum profiles or coated steel pipes combined with pre‑engineered connectors, allowing companies to build, modify, and reuse components as workflows evolve.
RMMC supplies two major offerings – 80/20 Aluminum T-Slot Framing and Flexpipe Pipe and Joint Modular System
Modular framing is widely used because it is:
- Reconfigurable – structures can be changed or expanded without cutting or welding.
- Lightweight and strong – especially aluminum profiles with high strength‑to‑weight ratios.
- Easy to assemble – only basic tools are required for most builds.
- Cost‑effective – reusable components reduce long‑term fabrication costs.
When to Use 80/20 vs. Flexpipe
Many production environments use both systems together, and Flexpipe even publishes connection methods for
integrating 80/20 T‑slot profiles with pipe structures.
80/20 Aluminum T-Slot Framing
80/20 is one of the industry’s leading modular aluminum framing systems, often described as an "industrial erector set" due to its versatility.
Key Features:
- T-slot profiles allow connections and fasteners to slide into the slot, enabling tool-only assembly.
- Made from 6000-series aluminum alloys such as 6105-T5 and 6063-T5 and 6063-T6, providing strength, corrosion resistance, and a clean appearance.
- A wide ecosystem of panels, hinges, brackets, doors, linear motion parts, and accessories.
- Used for machine frames, automation, robotics, guarding, converyors , carts, and more.
80/20 Series Type
80/20 profiles are categorized into fractional (imperial) and metric series. These designations describe the cross-section size of the profile.
Fractional (Imperial) Series:
- 10 Series - 1 inch x 1 inch base size
- 15 series - 1.5 inch x 1.5 inch base size
Metric Series:
- 20 Series - 20 mm base size
- 25 Series - 25 mm base size
- 30 Series - 30 mm base size
- 40 Series - 40 mm base size
- 45 Series - 45 mm base size
Each series includes square profiles, rectangular profiles, lite versions, and smooth-surface variants.
Why Companies Use 80/20:
- High structural integrity for heavy applications.
- Professional, clean appearance suitable for production and lab environments.
- Ability to integrate doors, panels, guards, conveyors, and automation devices.
- Strong ecosystem and cross-compatibility across manufacturers.
Flexpipe Pipe & Joint Modular System
Flexpipe is a steel pipe-and-joint system commonly used in lean manufacturing and material handling applications.
Key Features:
- Pipes are galvanized steel coated with polyethylene, available in multiple colors and wall thicknesses.
- Standard pipe diameter: 28 mm
- Assembles using metal joints and fasteners tightened with simple hand tools.
- Highly adaptable for racks, carts, flow shelves, FIFO lanes, workstations, and ergonomic improvements.
- Excellent for rapid iteration in continuous-improvement (Kaizen) environments.
Load Capacity
Flexpipe supports significant loads depending on pipe type and span - for example:
- Regular 1 mm steel pipe supports 449 lb at a 24-inch span
- 2 mm heavy-duty steel pipe supports 831 lbs at a 36-inch span
Why Companies Use Flexpipe:
- Lower cost compared to aluminum extrusion systems.
- Quick to assemble and modify - no machining required.
- Lightweight, ergonomic, and excellent for building flow-rack systems.
- Ideal for lean manufacturing (5S, Kaizen, continuous improvements).
Benefits of Modular Framing & Components:
- Reduced fabrication and installation time.
- Reuse components for long-term cost savings.
- Adapt quickly to change production processes.
- Improve ergonomics and workflow.
- Scale solutions as equipment layouts change.
- Maintain consistent, professional, and clean structural builds.
These benefits apply equally across manufacturing, warehousing, laboratories, quality control environments, and R&D spaces.
