Posted to News on 3rd Jun 2020, 00:00
How to move theatre and stage equipment without the drama
The challenge for every stage engineer is to create the perfect set, while meeting all related safety and building code standards. In this week’s video, Igus shows a range of technologies developed specifically for theatre and stage construction. Here, there are technically challenging requirements, which include high loads, such as those found in sound and lighting systems, stage sets or entire stage platforms. They must also operate quietly and remain out of sight, so as not to interfere with the performance.
Traditionally, cable reeling drums of are used for cable guidance on stages. However, they are reaching their technical limits in many respects, in particular with the capacity to accommodate different cable types and also the noise generated. The compact e-spool system, which can guide many different types of cable and hose, provides an operationally reliable alternative for noise-sensitive applications above and below the stage.
If stages or heavy stage platforms have to be moved, lifting heights of many metres and heavy loads have to be managed. By reversing links,
e-chains can do this whilst being stored in a compact zig-zag box, which can be integrated in the stage pit or fixed on movable lighting trusses. The Igus liftband system follows a different design approach to the zig-zag method. It was developed for vertical applications up to 13m and with lower cable loads, although higher fill weights are still possible with the use of nylon bands.
Whether it is e-spool, zig-zag or liftband, every application is configured individually. Therefore, an Igus designer should be consulted in the project planning. Only a little time is needed from configuration to delivery - the simplest as a ready-to-install plug-and-play system with pre-assembled cables and connectors.
