Mixer Support Frames

[ruffrecords]

You all know I struggle with mechanics. It is hard enough working them out for a mixer but I don't want tp get into welding and such like when it comes to fabricating a mixer support frame. I have not given it a lot of thought until today when I received an email from  the company that I use for the metal screens in mixer modules. In response to the virus they have come up with a range of simple kits based on tubing and scaffolding boards that let you build things like a picnic table and benches. a home gym, climbing frame and a golf/soccer net.

https://www.themetalstore.co.uk/products/garden-furniture-kits

It struck me I might be able to build some kind of mixer support frame using these. Not the big fat pipes used for scaffolding but the smaller ons that are just over an inch in diameter such as shown here:

https://www.themetalstore.co.uk/products/fast-order-tube-clamp-26-9mm

There are plenty of clamps, flanges, feet and fixings to make a frame from and attach a mixer to it.  find it kind of attractive in a functional art kind of way.

Cheers

Ian

 

[Gold]

I think using t-slot framing would give you more options and is fully modular. You can usually order parts cut to length.  All you need to assemble is a hex key. https://8020.net/

 

[JohnRoberts]

The tubing looks a little clunky and will consume space inside, unless you make it a cosmetic external design feature.

Mechanical structures are a mature discipline.

I've seen and used different strategies... slickest was a monocoque base (kind of like an airplane wing or race car).

For low volume don't lose a lot of sleep over it and do whatever you can source easily.

JR

 

[Bo Deadly]

T-Slot is the obvious choice. But I would not discount wood. A nice finished wood rack might complement a tube console nicely. If I understand what you're doing correctly, everything is in Schroff enclosures so it's already suitably shielded?

 

[boji]

+1 on t-slot  extrusions, as the aesthetic is more lab/tech looking. Wood might be nice too, then you'd have your choice of stain. Perhaps a combination of the two?

 

[ruffrecords]

I have been down the T-slot route before but unfortunately it is not available in the UK. I searched for the equivalent and found a company that did something very similar. I got hold of their on lone catalogue but it was several years out of date. I contacted them and asked if they could send me a catalogue and up to date price list. They said tell them what I want and they will give me a price!! I did not pursue it further. Maybe I should look again.

Anyone in the UK/EU know of a provider of something like T-slot?

Cheers

Ian

 

[wlinart]

Motedis also has a UK site: https://www.motedis.co.uk/shop/index.php
Maybe try them?

 

[abbey road d enfer]

These can be found in many places.
https://reprapworld.fr/products/mechanical/studs_and_bars/aluminum_extrusion_20x20mm_100_cm/?f=gs&f=gs&mkwid=sUzQDYcm3_dc|pcrid|191802064530|pkw||pmt||slid||prid|974&pgrid=38582105461&ptaid=pla-298340505777&gclid=Cj0KCQjw4dr0BRCxARIsAKUNjWR6f56pCHEbkRZqdqGB7Jp9WA8G8JkG7pyLY9g2YgA3CGjtbJSalGkaAtS4EALw_wcB
I would suggest you try the fabber sites. these extrusions are used for making CNC beds.

 

[pvision]

I think there are some similar modular products used for exhibition stands, etc

 

[ruffrecords]

Thanks for the links everyone. I will check out the exhibition stand idea.

Cheers

Ian

 

[mikeyB]

Hi Ian,
Have you not considered square tube connectors?
Google it and a vast array of couplings list, all you need then is a hacksaw for the tubing!

 

[ruffrecords]

Hi Ian,
Have you not considered square tube connectors?
Google it and a vast array of couplings list, all you need then is a hacksaw for the tubing!

That is bloody brilliant. Exactly what I need and doesn't cost the earth. Many thanks for the tip.

https://www.tradesystems.co.uk/Dexion-Speedfame-Compatible-25mm-Square-Tube-System.html

Cheers

Ian

 

[solderspongebob]

Here's a UK company which offers slotted extrusions, but they're closed during the lockdown unfortunately:

https://www.aluminium-profile.co.uk/