T-Slot 10" Mini Rack (6U)

A 6U 10" mini-rack built around 1" T-Slot extrusion and a few large (read - larger than standard bed size) 3D prints.

Inspired by the excellent mini-rack project by Jeff Geerling - More on that here

Included is a .STEP file, this could be easily expanded to make a 8U or 10U rack - just print more rack ears and use longer T-Slot.

Hardware BOM:

• QTY: x4 – 1” T-Slot Aluminum Extrusion @ 12” long
  • 12” is good for a 6U rack.
  • I used yellow powder coated slot for mine, but the clear anodized is cheaper.
  • McMaster-Carr link - https://www.mcmaster.com/47065t101/
• QTY: x12 - End-Feed Double Nut for 20 mm High Rail, M5 Thread Size
  • The 20mm long double end nuts are short enough to fit between the 1u rack ears.
  •  Though sized for 20mm T-slot, it works well in the 1” T-slot
  • McMaster-Carr link – https://www.mcmaster.com/5537T69/ (2 packs of 10)
• QTY: x16 – M5 self-aligning 1” T-Slot nuts
  • To attach the top and bottom frame plates, 8 per plate.
  • McMaster-Carr Link: https://www.mcmaster.com/3136n407/ (4 packs of 4)
• QTY: x 24 – M5 x 20mm Stainless Steel Button head screw
  • To attach the rack ears to the T-slot via the end-feed double nuts, and the frame plates to the T-Slot via the self-aligning T-slot nuts.
  • I used Torx screws because they tighten the best, Philips head could work as well.
  • McMaster-Carr Link: https://www.mcmaster.com/90991a129/ (50 pack)
• QTY: x8 – ¼-20 bolts @ ¾” long
  • Used to attach the Bottom Retainers and the Top Handles to the T-Slot.
  • If using the rubber feet or the eye rings, you’ll only need QTY: x2
  • McMaster-Carr Link (fancy): https://www.mcmaster.com/97690A179/
• QTY: x36 – M5 brass heat-set inserts @ 11.1mm long
  • Used as the equipment attachment points for the rack ears
  • 3 per rack ear
  • McMaster-Carr Link: https://www.mcmaster.com/94180a363/

Optional Hardware:

• QTY: x4 - Rubber feet with ¼-20 mounting stud
  • For a freestanding rack, makes it so it stands well on a flat surface.
  • McMaster-Carr Link: https://www.mcmaster.com/9541K83/ 
• QTY: x2 – Eye-bolt with ¼-20 stud
  • In case you ever wanted to suspend the rack from the ceiling or carry it with a strap.
  • McMaster-Carr Link: https://www.mcmaster.com/3067T71/ 
• QTY: x36 – M5 x 10mm stainless steel button head screws
  • Used to attach equipment to the rack ears – 10mm is good for the M5 inserts
  • McMaster-Carr Link: https://www.mcmaster.com/90991A126/
     

A full build log with instructions can be found here: https://www.macpierce.com/blog/2025/8/11/10in-mini-rack