Slacks Creek Robotic Cell CNC Frame
A high-rigidity machine enclosure constructed from modular T-slot 4040 and 8080 structural extrusions to reduce vibration transmission in automated manufacturing lines.
Project Gallery
Structural connection detail
Profile assembly detail
The Engineering Challenge
A manufacturing facility in Slacks Creek installed a high-speed multi-axis robotic milling cell. The rapid, reversing movements of the robotic arm generated heavy harmonic vibrations. The safety enclosure framing had to be highly rigid to prevent structure-borne vibrations from misaligning adjacent CNC machines, requiring a non-welded, reconfigurable design.
TS Aluminium Custom Solution
We engineered the robotic enclosure utilizing modular T-slot structural profiles (TS 4040 and TS 8080) extruded from anodized 6005-T5 structural alloy. T-slot structures avoid welding, allowing simple bolt-on reconfiguration. To mitigate vibration, we avoided simple bracket connections and used heavy-duty cast-iron gussets combined with M8 high-tensile T-nuts.
Rigidity and Alignment Specifications
The heavy 8080 profile upright columns were secured directly to the concrete slab using structural anchor plates and M12 dyna-bolts. The vertical frames support high-precision linear slide rails, milled to precise tolerances to align with the automated loading systems. Acrylic safety panels (10mm thick) are nestled inside the T-slot channels using compression gaskets.
| Structural Member | Profile Dimension | Material Grade | Unit Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vertical Columns | 80mm x 80mm T-slot | 6005-T5 (Anodized) | 3.25 kg/m |
| Horizontal Bracing | 40mm x 40mm T-slot | 6005-T5 (Anodized) | 1.62 kg/m |
| Joint Connectors | Cast Iron Gussets (80x80) | Structural Grade | 0.85 kg each |
Project Metadata
- Location: Slacks Creek, QLD
- Alloy Grade: 6005-T5
- Standards Met: AS/NZS 1170.2, AS 1866
- Fabrication: 100% In-House (QLD)
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the quality of our Project 4 system verified?
All our Project 4 components undergo strict Vickers hardness indentation testing and dimensional tolerance checks in compliance with AS/NZS 1866:1997 standards.
What warranties apply to our Project 4 range?
We provide a 10-year structural warranty on all architectural profiles in the Project 4 range, backed by Dulux accredited powder coat finishes.
Are CAD drawings available for Project 4?
Yes, we provide 3D models (STEP format) and 2D CAD layouts (DWG/DXF) to support builders and designers during the project planning stage.
Related Projects & Case Studies
Slacks Creek Project 4 Installation
Engineering and assembly of high-strength Project 4 framework designed to satisfy local Region B wind ratings.
Gold Coast Commercial Project 4 Project
Volume supply and custom CNC processing of Project 4 profiles matching QBCC structural regulations.
Request Engineering Specification
Submit your project dimensions, wind zone parameters, or target specs. Our Slacks Creek team will review and reply within 24 hours.
Detailed Case Study Technical Report & Site Performance Log
Every structural installation managed by TS Aluminium is supported with full project documentation. A primary challenge in Queensland is designing connection points capable of resisting high uplift forces during summer storms. During our design phase, we evaluate localized wind shear variables and terrain categories (Category 2: open terrain with few obstructions, to Category 3: suburban areas). Ground anchors are engineered to match site soil conditions, which are classified from Class S (stable clay) to Class H (highly reactive clay) based on geotech reports.
For concrete footing anchorage, our teams core-drill vertical holes into concrete slabs to receive post bases, or install structural steel baseplates. Baseplates are secured using M12 high-tensile chemically anchored studs embedded at least 110mm into 32 MPa concrete. Fastener connections are tightened using calibrated torque wrenches to target torque limits (e.g., M12 Grade 8.8 bolts tightened to 85 Nm), preventing thread strip issues under load cycles.
Once the structural assembly is complete, we perform deflection checks on vertical posts and horizontal rafters using dial gauges, verifying that structural deflection matches our design limits under dead loads. Water penetration tests are conducted on window suites and louver gutters to ensure EPDM compression seals form a watertight barrier, protecting the building envelope against wind-driven rain ingress.