Aluminum T-bar grating is an open-grid structure composed of T-shaped bearing bars and vertical crossbars, manufactured from aluminum alloy (typically 6063-T6). Its lightweight and durable design makes it suitable for industrial and architectural applications, particularly in environments requiring corrosion resistance and low maintenance, such as food processing plants or maritime settings.

Common specifications for aluminum T-bar grating include:

• Bearing Bar Dimensions: 1.5 inches high, 0.940-inch top flange width, 1/8-inch thick vertical stem, 1/4-inch wide base flange.

• Spacing: Bearing bars spaced 1-3/16 inches center-to-center, crossbars spaced 4 inches center-to-center.

• Material: 6063-T6 aluminum alloy, compliant with ASTM B221, with a mill finish.

• Weight: Approximately 4.29 lbs per square foot.

• Open Area: 21%, facilitating ventilation and drainage.

• ADA Compliance: Meets ADA requirements when installed perpendicular to the primary direction of travel.

Aluminum T-bar grating is widely used in:

• Industrial Applications: Walkways, platforms, mezzanines, and factory floors, particularly in food processing, maritime, and chemical environments.

• Architectural Applications: Stair treads, drainage covers, railing infill panels, sunshades, and safety barriers.

• Special Environments: Areas requiring non-sparking properties (e.g., chemical plants) or high corrosion resistance (e.g., coastal facilities).

Aluminum T-bar grating offers several advantages:

• Lightweight: Significantly lighter than steel, simplifying transportation and installation.

• Corrosion Resistant: A natural oxide layer prevents rust, ideal for wet or corrosive environments.

• Non-Sparking: Safe for use in flammable environments.

• High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Suitable for light to medium loads.

• Recyclable: Environmentally friendly, supporting sustainability goals.

• Versatile: Applicable to a wide range of industrial and architectural scenarios.

Aluminum T-bar grating is typically produced using a swage-locked process, where crossbars are mechanically pressed into bearing bars to form a secure connection. This method avoids welding, enhancing durability in corrosive environments.

Yes, when installed with bearing bars perpendicular to the primary direction of travel and with appropriate spacing (e.g., 19-S-4 spacing), aluminum T-bar grating meets ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements, making it suitable for public walkways and platforms.

Aluminum T-bar grating is designed for light to moderate loads, such as pedestrian traffic and light vehicles. Specific load capacities vary by product and span; refer to manufacturer load tables, based on a 12,000 psi allowable fiber stress.

Yes, aluminum T-bar grating is highly suitable for outdoor use due to its high corrosion resistance. Its natural oxide layer protects against rusting, making it ideal for marine environments, chemical plants, or areas exposed to moisture.

Compared to steel grating, aluminum T-bar grating:

• Weight: Much lighter, facilitating easier installation.

• Corrosion Resistance: Naturally corrosion-resistant, unlike steel, which requires galvanizing or coating.

• Load Capacity: Steel is better suited for heavy loads; aluminum supports light to medium loads.

• Safety: Aluminum is non-magnetic and non-sparking, ideal for chemical plants.

• Cost: Aluminum has a higher initial cost but lower maintenance costs.

Aluminum T-bar grating is available in standard sizes, but many suppliers offer customization options, including custom-cut dimensions, surface treatments (e.g., anodizing or powder coating), and non-slip surfaces for enhanced safety.

The primary material is 6063-T6 aluminum alloy, compliant with ASTM B221, typically with a mill finish, though other surface treatments can be applied based on requirements.

Yes, aluminum T-bar grating is highly corrosion-resistant due to its natural oxide layer, making it suitable for wet, chemical, or marine environments, preventing rust and degradation.

Yes, its non-sparking, corrosion-resistant, and easy-to-clean properties make it ideal for food processing environments. Its open design facilitates drainage and ventilation, meeting hygiene standards.

The standard weight is approximately 4.29 pounds per square foot, depending on manufacturer specifications.