Question 1

What is a 1-point truss?

Accepted Answer

A 1-point truss is a single aluminium tube structural element used in event technology, trade show construction and stage rigging. Unlike multi-point trusses which feature lattice frameworks with multiple chord tubes and diagonal bracing, the 1-point truss consists of a single tube – typically Ø 35 mm or Ø 50 mm diameter – manufactured from EN AW-6082 T6 aluminium alloy. The term "1-point" refers to the single chord tube, distinguishing it from 2-, 3- and 4-point truss systems. These single-tube trusses are ideal for lightweight applications such as banner frames, decorative installations, speaker mounting bars and trade show displays where compact dimensions and rapid assembly are priorities. Professional 1-point trusses like Naxpro-Truss FD31 are TÜV SüD certified and EN 1090 compliant, with documented load capacities and conical quick-lock connection systems.

Question 2

What is meant by a truss system?

Accepted Answer

A truss system is a modular structural framework composed of interconnected aluminium or steel elements designed to support loads in event technology, stage construction and architectural installations. Professional truss systems consist of straight sections, corner pieces, circular segments and connection hardware that can be assembled into virtually any geometric configuration. The term "system" emphasises the modular, compatible nature of components – all elements within a system share standardised connection interfaces (typically conical spigots and receivers) and are engineered to work together with documented load ratings. Truss systems are classified by the number of parallel chord tubes: 1-point (single tube), 2-point (ladder configuration), 3-point (triangular profile) and 4-point (square box truss). Each classification offers different load capacities, bending stiffness and application suitability. Professional systems like Naxpro-Truss are TÜV-certified with full structural documentation.

Question 3

Who is authorised to rig trusses?

Accepted Answer

In professional event environments, only competent persons with appropriate training and certification are authorised to rig load-bearing truss installations. Under DGUV Regulation 17 (formerly BGV C1) in Germany and equivalent LOLER/PUWER regulations in the UK, rigging personnel must demonstrate knowledge of structural principles, load calculations, safety factors and inspection procedures. Typical qualifications include completion of recognised rigging courses such as DGUV-I 215-313 training in Germany or IRATA/PLASA rigging certifications in the UK. For overhead installations or public events, a qualified structural engineer must verify the design and a competent rigger must inspect the completed installation before use. Permanent installations require annual inspection by certified personnel with documentation maintained for regulatory compliance. Even for ground-supported 1-point truss structures, personnel should understand load ratings, connection procedures and safety requirements to ensure installations meet professional standards.

Question 4

Why are professional trusses so expensive?

Accepted Answer

Professional trusses command premium pricing due to the engineering, materials and certification processes required to ensure structural safety and regulatory compliance. High-grade EN AW-6082 T6 aluminium alloy costs significantly more than standard aluminium due to its superior strength-to-weight ratio and weldability. Manufacturing involves precision CNC machining, TIG welding by certified welders and rigorous quality control including non-destructive testing of critical welds. Each batch undergoes TÜV SüD inspection with load testing to verify compliance with EN 1090 standards – certification costs that are amortised across production runs. Additionally, professional manufacturers provide comprehensive documentation including material certificates (EN 10204 3.1), structural calculations and load tables essential for insurance and regulatory approval. The liability exposure for structural failures in public events necessitates robust engineering and quality assurance. Whilst cheaper alternatives exist, professional-grade trusses from manufacturers like Naxpro-Truss offer documented performance, long service life and the legal protection of certified systems.

Question 5

What load capacity does a 1-point truss have?

Accepted Answer

The load capacity of a 1-point truss depends on tube diameter, wall thickness, span length and support configuration. A typical Naxpro-Truss FD 31 system (Ø 50 mm, 2 mm wall thickness) can carry approximately 50 kg point load at mid-span over a 2 m distance, reducing to roughly 15 kg for a 4 m span under the same deflection criteria (L/200). The smaller FD 21 system (Ø 35 mm, 2 mm wall) is rated for decorative loads typically under 10 kg per linear metre. The heavy-duty FD 31 HD (Ø 50 mm, 4 mm wall) nearly doubles the capacity of standard FD 31 due to increased wall thickness. These figures represent working load limits (WLL) with appropriate safety factors already applied. Actual load ratings must be verified from manufacturer data sheets for specific configurations, as factors including connection type, support spacing and dynamic loads significantly affect capacity. Professional installations require structural calculations by qualified engineers, particularly for overhead rigging or public events.

Question 6

Is Naxpro-Truss compatible with Global Truss F31?

Accepted Answer

Naxpro-Truss FD31 and Global Truss F31 are mechanically compatible at the connection level, as both systems use Ø 50 mm tubes with 2 mm wall thickness and conical quick-lock connectors with identical taper angles. This means individual tube sections can be physically connected using standard conical spigots and split pins. However, LTT recommends system-pure construction wherever possible for several important reasons. Manufacturing tolerances, surface treatments and welding procedures vary between manufacturers, potentially affecting load distribution in mixed installations. Each manufacturer provides certified load tables specific to their products – mixing systems complicates structural verification and may void certifications. Insurance and regulatory approval typically require documentation showing all components are from certified, traceable sources. For expanding existing Global Truss inventories, Naxpro-Truss FD31 offers a cost-effective compatible option, but mixed-system installations should always be verified by a qualified rigger and documented in structural calculations. For new complete systems, staying within a single manufacturer's ecosystem ensures consistent quality and unified warranty coverage.

Question 7

What 1-point trusses are available at LTT?

Accepted Answer

LTT offers a comprehensive range of professional 1-point trusses from our premium in-house brand Naxpro-Truss, manufactured in Germany to TÜV SüD standards. The FD 21 system features Ø 35 mm tubes with 2 mm wall thickness, ideal for decorative applications, retail displays and lightweight trade show structures. The FD 31 system with Ø 50 mm tubes and 2 mm walls is our best-selling all-rounder for professional trade show construction, stage applications and banner frames. For heavier-duty requirements, the FD 31 HD offers Ø 50 mm tubes with 4 mm wall thickness, providing nearly double the load capacity of standard FD 31. All systems are available in standard lengths from 0.25 m to 5 m, with straight sections, corner pieces (90°, 120°, 135°), circular segments and T-junctions. Finish options include natural mill aluminium and Stage Black powder coating (RAL 9005). Every Naxpro-Truss product ships with full TÜV certification, material certificates and load tables. LTT also stocks compatible accessories including conical connectors, base plates, clamps and rigging hardware.

Question 8

What are the main applications for 1-point truss systems?

Accepted Answer

1-point truss systems serve diverse professional applications across event technology, trade show construction and permanent installations. In trade show environments, they form the structural framework for banner displays, product presentation stands and modular booth constructions where aesthetic appearance and rapid assembly are priorities. Stage and concert applications include speaker mounting bars, microphone booms, decorative overhead elements and lighting support for fixtures under 20 kg. Architectural and permanent installations use 1-point trusses for ceiling-mounted projector supports, camera rigging and distributed audio systems in theatres, conference centres and houses of worship. Retail environments increasingly deploy decorative 1-point systems for window displays, product showcases and branded installations where the slender profile creates a high-tech aesthetic. Outdoor applications include banner frames for festivals, temporary signage structures and decorative installations, taking advantage of the corrosion-resistant EN AW-6082 T6 aluminium alloy. The quick-lock conical connection system enables touring productions to build and strike installations rapidly, whilst TÜV certification satisfies venue technical directors and insurance requirements across all professional applications.

1-Point Trusses