Valuframe - Notes about connecting Valuframe aluminium profile systems.

Joining Profiles

There are many methods of joining Valuframe profiles, each of which has its strengths. The aluminium profile connectors illustrated below are the most commonly used. The selection of fastener will depend on what is to be joined, why, where and the extent of machining capability required. We can always advise you on which connectors to use for your project.

1. No Drill Connector

A simple robust connector that, as it says on the packet, requires no drilling or machining. Used for 90° connections it comprises a hollow barrel with an external self tapping thread and a bolt that passes through the barrel to engage in a standard slot nut in similar fashion to the Universal Connector. The barrel is driven into a slot using a standard Torx bit. There is also a version to act as a butt fastener, connecting two profiles end to end where one barrel has an internal thread.

• No machining required makes it ideal for fast assembly, retro fitting to existing assemblies and on-site work.
• Connecting screw fits directly into a steel or stainless slot nut therefore high torque/strength connection 
• Can be undone and repositioned.
• Non central - can be used in pairs in opposing slots for extra strength.

2. Standard Fastener

Used primarily for joining 2 pieces of profile at 90° to each other. It requires one of the profiles to be drilled through with a hole large enough for an Allen key or Screwdriver to be passed through to gain access to a screw head. A large rectangular washer with tangs to prevent rotation by engaging in the open slot is put onto a screw which is then inserted in the central hole in one of the profiles to be joined. This assembly is then offered up to the other profile (containing the drilled hole) and the washer slid down the profile slot until the screw head is in line with the hole allowing it to be tightened up.

• The connector is relatively low cost.
• Requires a suitable hole drilling, and the profile hole tapping (unless self tapping screws are used).
• Can be undone and repositioned but only at some distance from its original position, as the access hole needs to be re-drilled. Sometimes it's possible to enlarge the access hole, but generally this connector is used where the final position of the connectors in known.
• A central fastener, so leaves slots more open than say, the no drill connector or universal connector.
• Cannot be used to connect profiles end on end.

3. Angle Brackets

A connector used for 90° connecting. Requires no drilling or tapping. Can be ordered with all the hardware such as slot nuts and screws, complete. Very strong, angles actually lend strength to the connection under load. Can be moved easily with no further machining needed. Some versions are cast with removable tangs that line the 2 profiles being connected if required. If not required just snap them off. Some versions also have a plastic cover cap to finish them off visually. 

• Requires no drilling or tapping.
• Can be easily undone and repositioned.
• Occupies the slot, so not perfect for areas with infill materials.
• Lends strength to the joint, some say the angles make the frame look tougher.

4. Universal Connector

A connector generally used for 90° and butt connection. Requires a large hole drilling part way through one profile to accommodate the barrel. The connector comprises a barrel with a central hole that retains a bolt that engages in a standard slot nut. Access to the bolt head is available along the slot. A variation of this connector using 1 long common bolt forms the butt connector.

• Requires a large hole drilling which may be a limitation without workshop facilities.
• Can be easily undone and repositioned.
• Non central - can be used in pairs in opposing slots or a double version for extra strength.

5. Corner Blocks

A 3 way connector used for 90° connections of 2 or 3 profiles. Requires tapping of the ends of the profiles being connected. The connector comprises a cast zinc block with 3 holes to connect to the profiles with screws, and a plastic cover cap that is pushed on when the profiles have been satisfactorily secures. The cover cap is designed to line up with the joining profiles to give a smooth finish.

• Requires the connecting profiles to be tapped.
• Gives a sturdy connection and has a smooth finish.
• Does not occupy the profile slot, so is perfect for furniture and enclosures.

6. Connecting plates

Connecting plates are a simple connection element. Their simplicity often takes away form their strength and the opportunities when, despite all the connecting options available, only a flat connecting plate will do the job. Connecting plates are available for all 3 series. This is an area where new plates are being developed with dimples to locate the joining profile slots and line them up for a better fit.

• Offer strength to an inline connection or awkward corner connection.
• Can be easily undone and repositioned with no drilling or tapping. 
• Offer an appearance of strength in certain situations, and does not occupy the slot for panel fitting etc..