Vertical Integration

Our vertically integrated 'one-stop-shop' approach is what sets us apart. From raw material to finished product, our team takes full control of the TSLOTS manufacturing process, delivering the precise shapes you need for your projects, and ensuring an unmatched level of quality and consistency with every order.

WHAT IS VERTICAL INTEGRATION?

TSLOTS by Bonnell Aluminum is North America's only line of T-slotted aluminum extrusions manufactured directly by the extruder. Vertical Integration for TSLOTS refers to the company's strategic approach of owning and controlling the entire manufacturing process, from raw material to finished product. With TSLOTS by Bonnell Aluminum, you're not just buying a product, you're investing in a process — a vertically integrated, finely-tuned process that guarantees quality, consistency, and flexibility.

Phase 1:

Aluminum Billet

TSLOTS Extrusions start as aluminum billet.

Phase 2:

Cut and Heat Billet

The aluminum billet is then cut and heated. This process allows the billet to be soft enough to go through the press.

Phase 3:

Press with Steel Die

The billet is then put through a press with steel die in order to create the TSLOTS shape in our extrusions.

Phase 4:

Stretch and Cut to Length

Stretching occurs as the aluminum billet is pulled out of the die. This process straightens the extrusion. After stretching, the extrusions are cut to length.

Phase 5:

Heat Treat

Heat treating the extrusions artificially age and harden them to a T6 temper.

Phase 6:

Anodize

We anodize our extrusions in house to give the extrusions a shiny finish. This protects the raw aluminum and makes the extrusions more aesthetically pleasing.

Phase 7:

Stock/Rack Extrusions

Extrusions are stocked in house. This allows us to have complete control over our supply and shorten lead times.

Phase 8:

Cut to Length and Machining

After an order is placed we will cut each extrusion to the correct length and add any machining necessary, including custom machining.

Phase 9:

Gather Components

We will collect parts for each assembly from out TSLOTS parts room.

Phase 10:

Assembly

Our assembly team will assemble each project according to the drawings and BOM.

Phase 11:

TSLOTS Designer Double Check

A TSLOTS Designer will ensure each assembly is up to our quality standards.

Phase 12:

Packaging and Shipping

After an assembly has been double check the assembly is ready to be packed and shipped. Our packing team ensures all orders are packaged correctly to minimize any damage during shipping.

The Benefits of Vertical Integration:

Flexibility with our Product Line

TSLOTS has the ability to create and manufacture new products with ease.

Leveraging Capacity to Save Money

TSLOTS is able to run presses at optimal quantities and pass those cost savings onto our customers.

Shorter Lead Times

TSLOTS doesn't rely as heavily on the supply chain as competitors do, since we extrude our own aluminum.

Quality Control

TSLOTS has full control over the quality of every extrusion and product we produce. There are quality stops throughout the entire production process from raw aluminum billet to end solutions.