Tech + Tool Tip Tuesdays: Building with Extrusions

Extrusions all have a few similar features, but each type has applications best suited for them. Remember, when bolting through any extrusion or tube, be careful not to over-tighten the bolt!

Patterned Extrusion: MAXTube is a strong extruded aluminum tubing featuring various hole patterns ranging from simple #10 clearance hole grid patterns to a repeated MAX Pattern every 2in. 

• Compatible with the REV ION Build System 
• Accepts standard #10-32 hardware on 1/2in pitch 
• Fixed pattern of mounting holes 
• Locations for mounting structure, gears, sprockets, bearings, shafts, motors, and servos 
• Good for a robot's drivetrain 

MAXTube with MAX Pattern features the MAXSpline bore with an array of #10 clearance holes on either side. The integrated MAXSpline allows for: 

• Easy installation of bearings for different live axle applications 
• Correct center-to-center distances for simple 1:1 power transmission with #25 chain or RT25 belting 
• Easy torque transfer directly to the tube for arm joints and other applications 

Learn more about power transmission with MAXSpline, a shape unique to the REV ION Build System in the motion section of our FIRST Robotics Competition Robot Basics Guide.

REV ION 1in T-Slot Extrusion is compatible with the REV ION Build System and accepts standard #10-32 Nuts and #10-32 Low-Profile Nyloc Nuts. 

• 1in x 1in square extruded aluminum tube 
• Slots allow for brackets to be placed anywhere 
• Slots designed to fit standard #10 hardware 
• Adjust design with ease 
• Good for linear motion