6-2020

6-2020 is a 20x20mm square-section aluminum profile of the European standard 6 series (slot width 6mm), 6063-T5 alloy, wall thickness 1.5mm, weight per meter 0.50kg/m, moment of inertia 1.20cm⁴, and is the smallest cross-section and lightest standard size in the whole series. Its proper positioning islight-load parts and appearance parts- protective cover frames, instrument brackets, light guards, display stands, not load-bearing structures. If you need span load-bearing or a main equipment frame, go up a size - don't force this size.

What the 20x20 can and cannot do

Drawing clear boundaries is more useful than listing advantages:

• As columns: single vertical load is recommended to stay within 50kg; lightweight panels such as mesh sheets, acrylic and thin aluminum plates can be hung with confidence.
• As crossbeams: only use on short spans where support can be added in the middle. Once the span lengthens, the moment of inertia of 1.20cm⁴ cannot hold, and visible sagging will be obvious.
• As frames: suitable for"build the panel first, then add the frame"approach, where the frame only bears its own weight plus the panel weight.
• Cannot be used for: equipment main load-bearing frames, load-bearing surfaces for mounting motors/cylinders/linear guides, bases subject to vibration and impact.

In other words, 6-2020 is a size that pushes"weight and bulk"to the extreme. Its value lies in saving material, saving space and looking good - not in strength.

Technical Parameters

How it ranks against the two sizes above: 6-2020 / 8-3030 / 8-4040

These three sizes are often substituted for one another, but their actual stiffness differs greatly. Moment of inertia goes 1.20 -> 3.20 -> 8.52, and each upgrade is"about 2.7 times the previous size".

The judgment rule is straightforward:only hanging panels, no moving parts -> 6-2020; need to mount cylinders, guides, motors -> start at 8-4040. The middle 8-3030 suits cases where size is small but 8-series fitting strength is needed.

Where 6-2020 is most cost-effective

• Equipment protective covers: top and side frames that only bear panel weight; 20x20 is enough and does not block the line of sight.
• Small electric control cabinet frames: cabinet space is already tight, and a 20mm frame saves a lot of wiring room compared with 40mm.
• Inspection instrument supports: the instrument itself is light; the support needs to be stable rather than bulky; 6-2020 with acrylic or aluminum plates works well.
• Light conveyor line guards: guards only block rather than bear load; using 6-2020 saves half the material compared with 8-4040.
• Display stands, prototype housings: cases where appearance matters more than strength.

Fittings and Delivery

6-2020 is symmetric on all four faces, each with a standard 6mm slot; mainstream 6-series connectors, T-nuts, angle brackets and end caps on the market can all be used directly. Note that:6-series fittings are not interchangeable with 8-series or 10-series, as slot widths are 6mm / 8mm / 10mm respectively; mixing them will cause jamming or looseness. If one project uses both 6-series and 8-series, keep the fittings separately.

Profiles are kept in regular stock, standard length 6.02m, sold from 1 meter, cut to drawings with cutting accuracy ±0.5mm. Produced in Qingpu, Shanghai; delivery within Shanghai city is available.

FAQ

What is the difference between 6-2020 and 8-2020?

Both have a 20x20mm cross-section; the difference is slot width: 6-2020 has a 6mm slot for 6-series fittings; 8-2020 has an 8mm slot for 8-series fittings and can carry heavier attachments. 6-2020 is kept in regular stock; 8-2020 must be confirmed on demand.

Can 6-2020 be used as a conveyor line main frame?

Not recommended. The main frame must bear the weight of conveyed parts, start-stop impacts and long-term vibration; the moment of inertia of 1.20cm⁴ is insufficient. The main frame should start at 8-4040, and rectangular tube should be considered for large-span sections.

How much can a single 6-2020 bear?

As a column under vertical load, a single piece is recommended to stay within 50kg. Actual load also depends on the overall frame structure, connection method and base fixation. When there are clear load requirements, provide the frame drawings and we will assess based on the structure before giving a conclusion.

Are 6-series fittings easy to buy?

Yes. 6-series is one of the standard series of European-standard aluminum profiles; T-nuts, angle brackets and end caps for 6mm slots are widely available on the market and basically interchangeable across brands.

Can it be cut to different lengths?

Yes. Standard length 6.02m; just note the required size when ordering, with cutting accuracy ±0.5mm. If drilling or tapping is needed, mention it at the same time.