Drive Solutions for Stage and Events

Entertainment is big business. All musical and sporting events require smooth behind-the-scenes operations to create magic for the audiences. Many stadiums, opera houses and theatre buildings are constructed or renovated to accommodate a wide variety of events, from sports to live theatre, music concerts and dance performances. Hence, the stage needs to adapt quickly to new areas or shapes to accommodate the demanding requirements of such events. And the only way is by using systems such as mechanical chains that lift, lower, push, and pull equipment into a variety of configurations.

Every stage is different, which means that each component of the stage not only has to be durable and efficient but must also integrate into the whole equipment. Theatre and stage construction present technical challenges because of high loads on crossbeams, stage lighting, stage sets or entire stage platforms, which must move safely and reliably. In addition, technical equipment must operate quietly and out of sight, so as not to interfere with the performance.

A long history

RUD has been a world leader in lifting and drive technology with a history of manufacturing excellence for over 140 plus years.

The magic of a show is priceless. Many opera houses, theatres and stadiums across the world use RUD hoist chains and drive solutions that reliably raise and lower stage equipment such as crossbeams, platforms and curtains including setting up and dismantling shows. RUD chains and drive solutions also enable the smooth realignment of permanently installed lightning. Every event is unique and using RUD chains and drive technology guarantees a safe and easy process including customisation for each performance as required.

TECDOS from RUD is a drive system that combines high-quality and accurately calibrated steel chains which fit into complementing sprockets. TECDOS modules are suitable for high loads and reliable under the most challenging conditions. Every TECDOS round steel chain is stamped and issued with a standard 3.1 inspection certificate to ensure its traceability right back to the chain furnace.

Solutions for the entertainment industry:

All RUD products are finished in Galvanised Black Phosphate to blend with the stage equipment.

CASE-HARDENED ROUND STEEL CHAINS

Case-hardened RUD chains of RTS, RTD and RTB are the safe option for every electric hoist which require reliability and safety.

The benefits of RUD Case-Hardened round chains are:

• They can be used in high-wear applications as per DIN EN 818-7-T.
• They have a high vibration resistance which helps to resist fatigue fractures during operation.

D-PROFILE CHAIN

RUD D-profile chain, the round steel chain 2.0, is the leading technologically advanced round steel chain. Because of its large cross-sectional area, it has a higher maximum load, is case-hardened and designed for higher wear demands.

The benefits of RUD D-Profile chains are:

• Used for motor-driven hoists.
• Used in high wear loads in accordance with EN 818-7-T.
• Has approximately 8% higher load capacity than comparable round steel chains.

TECDOS DRIVE TECHNOLOGY

RUD TECDOS products can manage the lifting and moving of all stage elements, safely and reliably.

Some of the TECDOS products used for stage operations are:

TECDOS ROUND LINK CHAIN: The core component of every TECDOS system application is a highly wear-resistant RUD round link chain for maximum service life.

TECDOS PI-GAMMA: The 2 in 1 Pi-Gamma is suited for horizontal and vertical applications with a fixed 180 degree application, or a flexible 90 to 180 degree application. The drive system ensures greater efficiency through flexibility.

TECDOS OMEGA DRIVE: TECDOS Omega Drive with a wrap angle of 180 degrees is recommended for continuous linear (linear drive) or rotary movements.

TECDOS Pocket Wheel: TECDOS pocket wheels are optimally designed to fit round link chains for smooth running and long service life.

TECDOS Chain Connector: The highly wear-resistant chain connector forms a reliable connection system even under challenging conditions. Endless chain loops are possible by means of a simple hammer assembly.

TECDOS Chain End Fixing: The chain end fixing for connecting chains to supporting structures transfers 100% of the TECDOS chain operating forces. Due to its adjustable axis, it ensures maximum flexibility during use.

TECDOS PowerPoint Lifting Point: The PowerPoint lifting point for connection to chains, hooks, and eyes, can easily be rotated 360° and swivelled 230°. The double ball bearing ensures easy tilting, turning and rotating for drive technology.

If you want to know how the team at RUD can help you, please call 07 3809 1300 or fill out an enquiry form here.

Article copyright to RUD, this information is accurate at the time of publication and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors inadvertent or otherwise.

Sources:

• https://www.rud.com