T-track or T-section or T-slot? Help please.

[Newbie_Neil]

Hi all

I want to buy some T-track, but I need some advice. Is there a standard size that I should buy? I want to keep my options open for the future, in case I buy any manufactured jigs/gauges etc.

Axminster sell T-Slot http://www.axminster.co.uk/default.asp?part=MT0032

and also

Fast Track http://www.axminster.co.uk/default.asp?part=411009

Whilst a company I found whilst searching the net, sell in various sizes http://www.arenastock.co.uk/aluminium.htm (I don't know if they sell in small quantities)

I would be grateful for any advice.

Thanks, in advance
Neil

 

[Scrit]

I suppose the main question to ask would be "can I get T-nuts for it?" (assuming you aren't of a mind to make your own). I feel that unless you know what you intend to buy in the future you can't really answer this one as there seems to be no real standard in that sense, and in any case American stuff tends to use UNF (Unified National Fine) theads which are not compatible with European metric stuff.

Personally I would make a list of "desirables", figure out what size track they require then go and buy a length of the cheapest ally section I could get hold of which was big enough (i.e. deep enough, wide enough with a big enough slot opening) to take everything on the "wanted" list. I'd then make my own jigs and fittings from plywood and plastics - much cheaper and a lot more fun.

BTW, another source of ally profiles is Baco Metal Centres http://www.bacometalcentres.co.uk/ who have branches all over the place. They generally sell profile in 3m or 4m long lengthsand it can easily be sawn with a fine tooth TCT sawblade, although I'd forget about trying to buy cut sections, trade suppliers normally don't cut to size - but it isn't that expensive per metre if you collect and it can be chopped-up with a hacksaw to get it into the car if needs be (Chanel section is here http://www.bacometalcentres.co.uk/baco/21/channels.html, for the channel you might have to look at blind track)

Scrit

 

[Anonymous]

From what i have looked at the T slot is more for fence/featherboard adjusting and the like where as the fast track is more for mitre gauges and sliding jigs . they all seem to be aroud 1/2" deep but widths do vary most off the shelf mitre gauges have a 3/4" guide . :shock: Confused me too :lol:
PS soz the sizes arn't metric but i alway work in old money , u know like 3' 15mm long (hammer)

 

[Scrit]

Agreed Mr. Beetle, the "standard" American slot in a table top is 3/4in (19mm), although some saws (including the Xcalibur I looked at) have T-slots. If you are making-up featherboards or the like it doesn't matter what size the T-slot is as long as you can get a bolt or T-nut to go in it

Scrit

 

[Newbie_Neil]

Hi Scrit

Thank you for the excellent advice.

I'm trying to make as many jigs as I can (honestly). You're right it is more fun, but sometimes just a little frustrating.

The reason for asking about the "industry standard" was in case I was going to buy something in the future to fit into the track.

Once again, thanks for your help.

Cheers
Neil

 

[sawdustalley]

Rutlands also sell some dakota stuff - which looks good.

When I was talking to a guy at trend at a show, he reccomended going to B&Q and buying some plastic to use for my slot LOL :lol:

Wouldn't buy their cheapo craftsman table, that looks like it has a plastic slot. I dont know - giving away their trade secrets :roll: .

 

[Noel]

Bit stuttery tonight