1-Point Trusses

1-Point Trusses – The Compact Professional Solution for Trade Shows, Stages and Events

The 1-point truss is the most compact and versatile structural element in professional truss systems – a single aluminium tube that excels wherever lightweight loads, rapid assembly and a slender appearance are required. Whether as a banner holder at trade show stands, ceiling mounting for individual fixtures or as a connecting element in stage constructions – 1-point trusses are indispensable in event technology. At LTT you'll find an extensive range of 1-point trusses from our premium in-house brand Naxpro-Truss (FD21, FD31, FD31 HD) as well as leading third-party brands such as Global Truss F31 – all TÜV SüD certified, EN 1090 compliant and available in numerous lengths and finishes. As a manufacturer with our own production facility in Germany and over 25 years' experience in event technology, LTT offers you not just products but genuine professional expertise.

What is a 1-Point Truss? Professional Definition and System Differentiation

A 1-point truss consists of a single aluminium tube – hence the term "single-tube truss" or "pipe truss". Unlike 2-, 3- or 4-point trusses, which are welded from multiple parallel chord tubes with diagonal bracing into a lattice structure, the 1-point truss is a pure tube construction without any truss framework.

This design makes it lighter, more compact and easier to transport – whilst the maximum load capacity (WLL – Working Load Limit) is naturally lower than multi-point systems. The 1-point truss is therefore the simplest form in the truss system family and ideal for light to medium loads.

System Differentiation by Point Count

• 1-Point Truss: Single tube, Ø 35 mm (decorative/FD21) or Ø 50 mm (FD31/F31), for light loads, decoration, trade show construction, banner holders
• 2-Point Truss: Two chord tubes with diagonal bracing, higher load capacity, typical for medium-sized stage constructions
• 3-Point Truss: Triangular profile, even more rigid, for demanding rigging applications
• 4-Point Truss: Square lattice framework, maximum load capacity and bending stiffness, for large stages and heavy-duty applications

The connection of individual tube segments in 1-point trusses is achieved via conical connectors (quick-lock principle): a conical spigot is inserted into the receiver of the next tube and secured with a split pin. This tool-minimal assembly enables rapid setup and dismantling without specialist tools – only a lightweight aluminium hammer is required.

The truss is classified by the number of chord tubes used. For the 1-point truss, that's exactly one tube – hence the designation. For applications requiring greater spans or higher loads, LTT recommends switching to 2-point or 4-point trusses from the Naxpro-Truss range.

Technical Specifications – Material, Tube Diameter, Wall Thickness and Load Capacity

Professional 1-point trusses are manufactured from the aluminium alloy EN AW-6082 T6 – a heat-treated structural aluminium with high yield strength, good weldability and excellent corrosion resistance. This alloy is the industry standard for load-bearing truss systems in event technology.

Technical Specification Table: Naxpro-Truss 1-Point Systems

The load capacity (WLL – Working Load Limit) of a 1-point truss depends on tube diameter, wall thickness, length and suspension points. As a rule of thumb: the shorter the span and the thicker the wall, the higher the permissible point and distributed loads. Specific WLL values can be found in the respective product data sheets and static calculations – LTT provides these for all Naxpro-Truss products.

Important: All Naxpro-Truss trusses are TÜV SüD certified and comply with standard EN 1090 (execution of steel and aluminium structures). These certifications are mandatory requirements for use at public events, trade shows and in theatres. Overloading the truss initially leads to visible deflection, then plastic deformation and in the worst case fracture of the tube or tearing out of conical connectors – an unacceptable safety risk.

For outdoor use, the corrosion resistance of aluminium alloy EN AW-6082 T6 is a decisive advantage: the material oxidises on the surface, thereby protecting itself. Black powder-coated versions (Stage Black) offer additional protection and a professional stage appearance.

Load Calculation and Span Tables

Unlike competitors who provide only basic load figures, LTT supplies detailed span-to-deflection tables for each Naxpro-Truss system. For example, an FD 31 tube with 2 m span can typically carry 50 kg point load at mid-span with less than 5 mm deflection, whilst a 4 m span reduces this to approximately 15 kg under the same deflection criteria. These precise engineering data enable professional riggers and stage planners to design installations that meet both DGUV Regulation 17 (formerly BGV C1) and LOLER/PUWER requirements in the UK market.

Professional Applications – From Trade Show Displays to Concert Stage Rigging

1-point trusses are the versatile backbone of countless professional applications in event technology, trade show construction and permanent installations. Their slim profile and lightweight construction make them the first choice wherever aesthetic appearance matters as much as structural integrity.

Trade Show and Exhibition Construction

In trade show construction, 1-point trusses form the framework for banner displays, product presentation frames and modular booth structures. The FD 31 system with Ø 50 mm is particularly popular for creating clean, professional-looking rectangular or curved frames that support fabric graphics, lighting bars or product shelving. Black powder-coated versions blend seamlessly into exhibition environments whilst maintaining full structural certification.

Stage and Concert Applications

On stages, 1-point trusses serve as speaker mounting bars, microphone booms and decorative overhead elements. Their quick-lock assembly system allows touring crews to build and strike installations rapidly – a critical advantage in the live entertainment sector. When combined with appropriate clamps and safety cables, FD 31 tubes can safely suspend line-array speakers, monitor wedges or atmospheric lighting fixtures.

Architectural and Permanent Installations

In permanent installations – theatres, houses of worship, conference centres – 1-point trusses provide ceiling-mounted infrastructure for projectors, cameras and distributed audio systems. The corrosion-resistant EN AW-6082 T6 alloy ensures decades of reliable service without degradation, whilst TÜV certification satisfies building control and insurance requirements.

Retail and Interior Design

Retail environments increasingly use FD 21 decorative trusses with Ø 35 mm for window displays, product showcases and branded installations. The slender profile creates a high-tech aesthetic whilst the modular system allows seasonal reconfiguration without specialist contractors.

For heavier-duty applications or larger spans, explore our 3-point and 4-point truss systems which offer significantly higher load ratings and bending stiffness.

Naxpro-Truss FD21 and FD31 – German Engineering Excellence with Global Compatibility

LTT is not merely a distributor but a manufacturer: our premium in-house brand Naxpro-Truss is produced in Germany and covers the entire spectrum of professional truss systems – from lightweight decorative trusses to heavy-duty constructions.

Naxpro-Truss FD21 – The Decorative and Trade Show Truss

The FD 21 system with Ø 35 mm and 2 mm wall thickness is the optimal choice for decorative constructions, retail displays, window installations and lightweight trade show stands. The low self-weight significantly facilitates transport and assembly. FD 21 elements are available as straight sections, corners (90°), circular segments and T-pieces.

Typical applications include product presentation frames in retail environments, lightweight banner structures and architectural installations where visual impact matters more than load capacity. The system is particularly popular in the fashion and consumer electronics sectors where brand aesthetics drive booth design.

Naxpro-Truss FD31 – The All-Rounder for Stage and Trade Show

The FD 31 system with Ø 50 mm and 2 mm wall thickness is the best-selling standard in professional trade show construction and stage applications. It corresponds in tube diameter and wall thickness to the market standard Global Truss F31 – both systems work with the same Ø 50 mm conical connector principle.

Compatibility Note: Naxpro-Truss FD31 and Global Truss F31 are mechanically compatible at the connection level. Both use conical spigots with identical taper angles and securing mechanisms. However, LTT recommends system-pure construction wherever possible, as manufacturing tolerances, surface treatments and certified load tables are manufacturer-specific. Mixed-system installations should always be verified by a qualified rigger and documented in the structural calculation.

Naxpro-Truss FD31 HD – Heavy-Duty Performance

For applications requiring higher load capacity without stepping up to 2-point systems, the FD 31 HD with 4 mm wall thickness offers nearly double the bending stiffness of standard FD 31. This system is ideal for longer unsupported spans, heavier speaker clusters or installations subject to dynamic loads such as moving-head fixtures.

All Naxpro-Truss systems ship with full TÜV SüD certification documentation, material certificates (EN 10204 3.1) and load tables compliant with EN 1090-1. This documentation package is essential for satisfying health and safety executives, venue technical directors and insurance underwriters in professional event environments.

Connection Technology and Assembly Guide – Quick-Lock Systems and Safety Requirements

The hallmark of professional 1-point truss systems is their quick-lock conical connection technology – a tool-minimal assembly method that combines speed with structural reliability.

Conical Connector System

Each tube end features either a machined conical receiver or a welded conical spigot. Assembly involves inserting the spigot into the receiver until it seats fully, then securing with a spring-loaded split pin through pre-drilled holes. The conical taper (typically 1:10) creates a friction-fit connection that resists both axial and rotational loads.

The only tool required is a lightweight aluminium or plastic hammer to tap the spigot home – steel hammers must never be used as they can damage the aluminium surface and compromise structural integrity. Properly seated connections exhibit no visible gap and the split pin holes align perfectly.

Half-Cone Adapters and System Extensions

Half-cone adapters allow connection of two receiver ends or two spigot ends, enabling field repairs and non-standard configurations. These adapters are particularly valuable in touring applications where damaged tube ends can be bypassed without scrapping entire sections.

For creating T-junctions, cross-connections or corner assemblies, Naxpro-Truss offers a comprehensive range of cast aluminium nodes with multiple conical receivers at precise angles. These nodes are individually TÜV-certified with documented load ratings for each connection axis.

Safety and Inspection Requirements

Under DGUV Regulation 17 (formerly BGV C1) in Germany and equivalent LOLER/PUWER regulations in the UK, all load-bearing truss installations must be inspected by a competent person before each use. For 1-point trusses, inspection focuses on:

• Visual examination of tube surfaces for dents, cracks or corrosion
• Verification that all conical connections are fully seated with split pins correctly installed
• Confirmation that load ratings are not exceeded per the manufacturer's data sheet
• Documentation of the installation in a rigging plot or technical rider

Permanent installations require annual inspection by a qualified structural engineer, with written certification maintained for insurance and regulatory compliance. LTT provides inspection checklists and training resources to support customers in meeting these obligations.

Assembly Best Practices

Professional riggers follow these best practices when working with 1-point trusses:

1. Pre-assembly inspection: Check all components for damage before beginning assembly
2. Clean connections: Remove dirt, dust or oxidation from conical surfaces
3. Controlled insertion: Tap spigots home with measured strikes, not excessive force
4. Pin verification: Ensure split pins fully engage and are properly spread
5. Load testing: Apply test loads incrementally before committing to full working load
6. Documentation: Photograph completed installations and retain assembly records

Selection Guide – Choosing the Right 1-Point Truss System for Your Project

Selecting the appropriate 1-point truss system requires balancing load requirements, span distances, aesthetic considerations and budget constraints. This guide helps you navigate the decision process.

Load Capacity Assessment

Begin by calculating the total load your installation must carry, including:

• Equipment weight (fixtures, speakers, screens, banners)
• Dynamic factors (movement, vibration, wind loading)
• Safety factor (typically 5:1 for entertainment rigging, 7:1 for permanent installations)

For loads under 10 kg per linear metre with spans under 2 m, FD 21 (Ø 35 mm) typically suffices. For loads between 10–30 kg/m with spans up to 4 m, FD 31 (Ø 50 mm, 2 mm wall) is appropriate. Heavier loads or longer spans require FD 31 HD (4 mm wall) or a step up to 2-point truss systems.

Span and Deflection Considerations

Whilst load capacity is critical, deflection often governs design. A tube may be strong enough to carry a load without failure but deflect excessively, creating an unprofessional appearance or interfering with equipment alignment.

LTT's engineering team recommends limiting deflection to L/200 (span divided by 200) for most applications. For a 3 m span, this equates to maximum 15 mm deflection. Consult the span tables in product data sheets or contact LTT's technical support for project-specific guidance.

Finish and Colour Options

Naxpro-Truss 1-point systems are available in:

• Natural aluminium: Mill finish with clear anodising, ideal for industrial aesthetics or budget-conscious projects
• Stage Black: RAL 9005 powder coating, the professional standard for stage and studio applications where equipment must "disappear" visually
• Custom RAL colours: Available on request for branded installations or architectural projects requiring specific colour matching

Black finishes command a premium of approximately 20–30% over natural aluminium but are essential in broadcast and theatre environments where light spill and visual distraction must be minimised.

Length and Modular Planning

Naxpro-Truss tubes are available in standard lengths from 0.25 m to 5 m in 0.25 m or 0.5 m increments. Longer spans are achieved by connecting multiple tubes via conical connectors. When planning modular installations:

• Minimise the number of connections to reduce assembly time and potential failure points
• Position connections away from maximum bending moment locations (typically mid-span)
• Standardise on common lengths to simplify inventory and field modifications
• Order 10% spare connectors and split pins for field repairs and reconfigurations

System Compatibility and Future Expansion

If you already own Global Truss F31 components, Naxpro-Truss FD31 offers direct mechanical compatibility, allowing you to expand existing inventories cost-effectively. However, for new installations or complete system purchases, LTT recommends staying within a single manufacturer's ecosystem to ensure consistent quality, unified documentation and streamlined warranty support.

For complex projects involving multiple truss types, curved sections or custom geometries, LTT's planning service can provide CAD drawings, structural calculations and material lists tailored to your specific requirements. Contact our technical team to discuss your project.

LTT – Your Specialist for Professional Event Technology and Truss Systems

As a manufacturer with over 25 years' experience in event technology, LTT combines the product breadth of a specialist distributor with the engineering expertise of a truss producer. Our Naxpro-Truss brand is manufactured in our German production facility to exacting standards, with every batch subject to TÜV SüD inspection and EN 1090 compliance verification.

When you choose LTT for your 1-point truss requirements, you benefit from:

Manufacturing Expertise: Direct access to the engineering team that designs and produces Naxpro-Truss systems, enabling custom solutions and rapid technical support.

Comprehensive Documentation: Every truss system ships with full certification packages including material certificates (EN 10204 3.1), TÜV inspection reports, load tables and assembly instructions – essential for regulatory compliance and insurance requirements.

3-Year LTT Warranty: All Naxpro-Truss products carry our comprehensive 3-year warranty covering material defects and manufacturing faults, significantly exceeding industry-standard coverage.

Free Shipping from £69: We ship worldwide from our Bocholt, Germany facility with free standard shipping on orders over £69, and express options available for time-critical projects.

International Expertise: Our technical support team speaks multiple languages and understands the regulatory requirements of markets throughout Europe, the UK and internationally.

Whether you're outfitting a touring production, building a permanent installation or creating a modular trade show system, LTT provides the products, expertise and support to ensure your project succeeds. Explore our complete range of Naxpro-Truss systems or contact our team to discuss your specific requirements.

For complementary rigging hardware, clamps and safety equipment, browse our rigging and stage technology category, where you'll find everything needed to complete your professional installation.

FAQ – Questions & Answers