Building a high-performance racing simulator starts with a solid frame—and when it comes to strength, adjustability, and value, nothing beats aluminium profiles. Among sim racing enthusiasts, 8020-style aluminium profiles have become the gold standard for DIY and professional rigs alike. But what makes one profile better than another? And which size or type suits your needs best?
Why Choose Aluminium Profiles for a SIM Rig?
Aluminium profiles offer a unique combination of strength, modularity, and lightweight design, making them perfect for racing sim rigs. Unlike wooden frames or welded steel structures, aluminium profiles are easy to customize and expand.
The extruded T-slot design allows you to attach accessories like monitor mounts, pedal plates, shifters, and motion actuators without drilling or welding. This modularity is why the sim racing community often refers to these setups as “8020 rigs.”
Best Profile Size: 40×40 vs. 40×80 vs. 45×90
One of the most searched questions is: What size aluminium profile is best for a SIM rig? The answer depends on your budget, equipment, and expansion plans.
- 40x40mm: Ideal for beginners and casual users. Lightweight and cost-effective, but may flex under load if used with heavy pedals or DD (Direct Drive) wheels.
- 40x80mm: The most popular choice. Offers excellent stiffness and support for high-end setups. Suitable for heavy wheels and motion systems.
- 45x90mm (or similar): Best for professional-grade rigs. Extra rigidity for triple monitor setups, motion platforms, and commercial use.
A 40×80 base with 40×40 accessories is a common hybrid build for balancing strength and cost.
Recommended Profile Series: 8020-Compatible
Ensure your chosen profile is 8020-compatible or from a trusted manufacturer that uses standard T-slot dimensions (typically 8mm or 10mm slot widths). This allows compatibility with a wide range of brackets and sim racing hardware.
ShineGround offers precision-cut 8020-style aluminium profiles, surface-treated for a smooth finish and improved corrosion resistance—perfect for both racing enthusiasts and cockpit manufacturers.
Real User Case: From DIY to Professional Racing Setup
Take the example of Mark, a sim racing enthusiast from the UK. He started with a wooden frame but upgraded to a 40×80 aluminium profile rig after adding a DD Pro Wheel Base and hydraulic pedals. The result? A 50% improvement in stability, reduced flex during cornering simulations, and the ability to mount a triple-screen monitor arm without frame shake.
Choosing the Best Aluminium Profile for Your Sim Rig
For most sim racers, a 40×80 aluminium profile strikes the best balance between strength and flexibility. It supports high-performance components and gives room for upgrades without breaking the bank. For ultra-heavy builds or commercial simulators, 45×90 or larger profiles offer unbeatable rigidity.
Whether you’re a hobbyist or aiming for e-sports level performance, investing in high-quality aluminium profiles is the best way to build a reliable and immersive sim rig.
