FD 34 Circles
FD 34 Circles – Your Professional Solution for Curved Event Structures
FD 34 circular truss systems from Naxpro-Truss are the professional choice when you need to create impressive curved structures for stages, exhibitions, and events. These precision-engineered aluminium circles transform standard rigging into architectural highlights that immediately capture attention. Whether you're building illuminated banner frames, circular stage roofs, or striking exhibition stands, FD 34 circles deliver the structural integrity and visual impact that set professional installations apart. With diameters ranging from 2 to 10 metres and the option for custom sizes beyond 10m, you'll find the optimal solution for every application.
What Are FD 34 Circular Truss Systems?
FD 34 circles are modular circular truss segments manufactured from high-grade EN AW 6082 T6 aluminium alloy, designed specifically for creating curved structures in professional event technology. The designation "FD 34" refers to the series specification: FD indicates the lighter-duty variant with 50mm diameter chord tubes and 2mm wall thickness, whilst the number 34 denotes the 290mm edge dimension of the truss profile.
Each complete circle is divided into eight individual segments, with each segment forming a precise 45° arc. This modular design allows you to create full circles, half-circles, quarter-circles, or custom arc configurations by combining the appropriate number of segments. The 290mm edge dimension provides excellent structural depth whilst maintaining a sleek visual profile that doesn't dominate the overall design.
The FD 34 series sits between the lighter FD 31 range (which uses 35mm chord tubes) and the heavier-duty HD 34 series (which features 50mm tubes with 3mm wall thickness for higher load capacities). This middle position makes FD 34 circles the versatile workhorse for most professional applications where you need curved elements without the additional weight and cost of heavy-duty systems. The standardised connection system ensures full compatibility with straight FD 34 truss sections, corners, and accessories, enabling you to integrate circles seamlessly into complex three-dimensional structures.
All segments include the complete connection hardware set, comprising conical couplers, truss pins, and R-clips, ensuring secure assembly that meets professional safety standards. The precision manufacturing tolerances guarantee that segments align perfectly, creating smooth circular forms without visible joints or structural weak points.
Applications for FD 34 Circular Truss Systems
FD 34 circles excel in creating architectural focal points that draw the eye upward and outward. In stage design, circular truss roofs create impressive canopies for bands, DJs, and presenters, providing mounting points for lighting, video screens, and decorative elements whilst defining the performance space with elegant curves. The circles can be suspended at various heights or supported by vertical truss towers, depending on your venue and creative vision.
For exhibition and trade show applications, FD 34 circles transform standard booth spaces into memorable brand experiences. Illuminated banner frames created from circular trusses become three-dimensional advertising platforms visible from across the exhibition hall. You can stretch fabric graphics around the circle perimeter, mount LED strips along the chord tubes, or suspend products and displays within the circular frame. The structural strength allows you to hang significant weights whilst maintaining the clean, floating aesthetic that makes curved structures so visually compelling.
In permanent installations—theatres, churches, clubs, and corporate spaces—FD 34 circles provide the foundation for architectural lighting features, decorative ceiling elements, and spatial dividers. The aluminium construction requires no maintenance beyond occasional cleaning, and the modular design means you can reconfigure or expand installations as requirements change.
Event production companies appreciate the versatility of maintaining an inventory of FD 34 segments. The same components that create a 4-metre circular banner frame for one client can be reconfigured into two 2-metre circles for another project, or combined with straight sections to build complex geometric forms. This flexibility maximises return on investment whilst minimising storage requirements compared to custom-fabricated curved elements.
Quality Standards and Professional Specifications
When selecting circular truss systems, understanding the technical specifications ensures you choose components that meet both structural requirements and budget constraints. FD 34 circles from Naxpro-Truss are manufactured to TÜV-certified standards and comply with EN 1090 structural steelwork regulations and DGUV Vorschrift 17 (formerly BGV C1) rigging safety guidelines—critical certifications for professional event applications where safety documentation is mandatory.
The 50mm diameter chord tubes with 2mm wall thickness provide the optimal balance between strength and weight. A complete 7-metre diameter FD 34 circle weighs approximately 123 kilograms—substantial enough to ensure rigidity under load, yet manageable for a two-person crew during assembly. The working load limit (WLL) varies depending on configuration and support points; consult the manufacturer's load tables and engage a qualified structural engineer for installations involving significant suspended weights or public access areas.
Leading manufacturers in this category include Naxpro-Truss, Eurotruss, Global Truss, Prolyte, and Litec. Naxpro-Truss stands out for its German manufacturing precision and comprehensive product ecosystem—every component from the smallest connector to the largest circle segment is designed to work together seamlessly. The consistency of manufacturing tolerances means that segments purchased years apart will still align perfectly, protecting your long-term investment.
Price positioning for FD 34 circles typically ranges from approximately €1,800 for a 2-metre diameter complete circle to around €9,000 for a 10-metre diameter system. Custom diameters beyond 10 metres are available on request, with pricing dependent on engineering requirements. When evaluating costs, factor in the included connection hardware—quality systems include all necessary couplers, pins, and clips, whilst budget alternatives may require separate accessory purchases that erode the apparent savings.
Finish options extend beyond the standard mill-finish aluminium. Black powder-coated circles create dramatic visual impact for theatrical applications, whilst custom RAL colour matching allows you to integrate truss structures into corporate brand guidelines. The powder-coating process adds minimal weight whilst providing excellent durability and UV resistance for outdoor or touring applications.
Understanding FD 34 vs HD 34 Series Differences
The choice between FD 34 and HD 34 circular truss systems represents a fundamental decision in structural design, with implications for load capacity, weight, cost, and application suitability. Both series share the same 290mm edge dimension and 50mm chord tube diameter, but the wall thickness difference—2mm for FD 34 versus 3mm for HD 34—creates significant performance variations.
FD 34 circles are the standard choice for most professional applications where moderate loads are suspended and the structure is properly supported. Typical applications include banner frames with fabric graphics, lighting rigs with moving heads and LED fixtures distributed around the circle, and decorative installations where the truss itself is a design element. The 2mm wall thickness provides excellent strength-to-weight ratio, making FD 34 circles easier to transport, quicker to rig, and more economical to purchase.
HD 34 circles become necessary when you're suspending heavier concentrated loads, creating larger unsupported spans, or working in applications where additional safety factors are required by regulations or insurance requirements. The 50% increase in wall thickness (from 2mm to 3mm) delivers substantially higher load ratings whilst adding approximately 30–40% to the overall weight. For a 7-metre circle, this translates to roughly 40 additional kilograms—a significant consideration when calculating rigging points and crew requirements.
The modular nature of both systems means you can combine FD 34 and HD 34 components within a single structure, using HD 34 segments in high-stress areas whilst employing FD 34 elsewhere to optimise weight and cost. However, this approach requires careful structural calculation by a qualified engineer to ensure load paths are properly managed and connection points are appropriately rated.
Both FD 34 and HD 34 circles are also available in fractional segments—1/4 circles (two 45° segments) and 1/8 circles (single 45° segments)—allowing you to create custom arc configurations. The 90° corner pieces with downward outlets enable you to transition from horizontal circles to vertical support towers, creating three-dimensional structures that combine curves and straight sections into complex architectural forms.
For most event production, exhibition, and permanent installation work, FD 34 circles provide the optimal solution. Reserve HD 34 for applications where engineering calculations demonstrate the need for higher load ratings, or where client specifications or venue regulations mandate the heavier-duty system.
Assembly, Safety, and Installation Considerations
Proper assembly of FD 34 circular truss systems is straightforward for experienced riggers but demands attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols. Each segment connection point uses the standardised conical coupler system: conical pins insert into the chord tube ends, truss pins pass through aligned holes in the couplers, and R-clips secure the pins against vibration or accidental withdrawal. Never substitute components from different manufacturers or use damaged connectors—the entire structural integrity depends on these small but critical elements.
Before assembly, inspect every segment for damage, paying particular attention to the chord tube ends where couplers insert. Dents, cracks, or deformation in these areas compromise connection strength and alignment. Check that all connection holes are clear of debris, paint, or corrosion that might prevent pins from seating fully. Lay out all segments in the correct sequence before beginning assembly—attempting to correct errors after partial assembly wastes time and risks damage.
For ground assembly of complete circles, work on a clean, level surface with adequate space around the perimeter. Begin by connecting two segments, then progressively add segments working around the circle. The final connection—closing the circle—requires careful alignment and may need gentle persuasion with a copper or rubber mallet. Never force connections with steel hammers or excessive leverage, as this indicates misalignment that must be corrected rather than overcome.
When suspending FD 34 circles, distribute lifting points evenly around the perimeter unless engineering calculations specify otherwise. A minimum of four lifting points is standard for circles up to 6 metres diameter; larger circles typically require six or eight points to prevent excessive deflection. Use only rated rigging hardware—shackles, slings, and hoists—with current certification, and ensure all rigging personnel hold appropriate qualifications under DGUV Vorschrift 17.
The modular design facilitates transportation and storage. Disassemble circles into individual segments, bundle segments of the same arc length together, and store horizontally on padded racks to prevent tube deformation. Purpose-designed flight cases protect segments during transport whilst enabling efficient loading and unloading. Mark each segment clearly with the circle diameter and position number to streamline assembly on site.
For permanent installations, consider environmental factors. Whilst aluminium resists corrosion better than steel, coastal or industrial atmospheres may require periodic cleaning and inspection. Indoor installations in climate-controlled spaces require minimal maintenance beyond visual inspection before each use. Always maintain comprehensive documentation of load calculations, rigging plans, and inspection records—these are not merely good practice but legal requirements in most jurisdictions for structures accessible to the public.
LTT – Your Specialist for Event Technology
LTT combines over 25 years of experience in professional event technology with the unique advantage of being both manufacturer and specialist retailer. As the producer of Naxpro-Truss systems in our German facility, we understand FD 34 circles from the inside out—from the aluminium extrusion process through precision welding to final quality control. This manufacturing expertise translates into knowledgeable advice when you're planning your next project.
Every FD 34 circle system you purchase from LTT includes our comprehensive 3-year warranty, covering manufacturing defects and material failures. Orders over €69 ship free throughout Germany, with express delivery available when project timelines are tight. International shipping reaches customers worldwide, supported by our established dealer network for Naxpro-Truss, Riggatec, and Bullstage products.
Whether you're a touring production company building inventory, an exhibition contractor seeking reliable suppliers, or a venue manager specifying permanent installations, LTT provides the technical support and product availability that keep your projects on schedule. Our B2B wholesale terms offer attractive pricing for resellers and volume purchasers, whilst individual customers benefit from the same professional service and product quality.
Explore our complete range of truss systems, rigging accessories, and event technology solutions. From the smallest connector to complete structural systems, LTT delivers the innovative solutions that help you create impressive results and set your work in scene with professional impact.
FAQ – Questions & Answers
FD 34 circular truss systems vary in weight depending on diameter. A 2-metre diameter FD 34 circle weighs approximately 35 kilograms, whilst a 4-metre circle weighs around 70 kilograms. The 7-metre diameter system weighs approximately 123 kilograms, and the largest standard 10-metre circle weighs roughly 175 kilograms. These weights include all eight segments plus the complete connection hardware set (conical couplers, truss pins, and R-clips). The 50mm diameter chord tubes with 2mm wall thickness and EN AW 6082 T6 aluminium alloy construction provide excellent strength-to-weight ratio. When planning transportation and rigging, remember that individual 45° segments weigh significantly less than the complete assembled circle, making handling more manageable during setup and breakdown.
Yes, Naxpro-Truss FD 34 circles can be manufactured in custom diameters exceeding the standard 10-metre maximum. Custom-diameter circles are produced as special orders with lead times typically ranging from 4 to 8 weeks depending on production schedules and complexity. The manufacturing process involves precision bending of the chord tubes to the specified radius whilst maintaining the 290mm edge dimension and structural integrity. Engineering calculations are performed for each custom diameter to verify load ratings and connection requirements. Pricing for custom circles depends on diameter, quantity, and any special finish requirements such as powder coating. Contact LTT directly with your project specifications to receive detailed quotations and technical documentation for custom FD 34 circular truss systems that meet your exact dimensional requirements.
FD 34 circular truss systems from Naxpro-Truss are available in any RAL colour through professional powder-coating processes. The standard finish is mill-finish natural aluminium, which provides excellent durability and the classic metallic appearance familiar in professional rigging. Black powder-coated circles (typically RAL 9005 jet black) are popular for theatrical and concert applications where the truss structure should visually recede. White finishes (RAL 9010 or 9016) suit corporate events and clean contemporary aesthetics. Custom RAL colour matching enables you to integrate truss structures into specific brand guidelines or architectural colour schemes. The powder-coating process adds minimal weight (typically less than 2% of the base aluminium weight) whilst providing superior UV resistance and durability compared to paint. Custom colour orders require longer lead times and minimum order quantities; contact LTT for specific pricing and availability based on your colour and quantity requirements.
FD 34 circles use 50mm diameter chord tubes with 2mm wall thickness, positioning them between the lighter FD 31 series (35mm tubes, 2mm walls) and the heavier HD 34 series (50mm tubes, 3mm walls). All three systems share similar modular design principles but serve different load requirements. FD 31 circles are suitable for lightweight decorative applications and smaller diameters where reduced weight is prioritised over maximum load capacity. FD 34 circles represent the professional standard for most event, exhibition, and permanent installation work, offering excellent strength-to-weight ratio and broad application versatility. HD 34 circles provide approximately 40–50% higher load ratings than FD 34 due to the thicker wall construction, making them necessary for heavy rigging loads or larger unsupported spans. The edge dimension also differs: FD 31 systems typically use smaller profiles, whilst FD 34 and HD 34 both feature 290mm edge dimensions for comparable visual scale.
FD 34 circular truss systems from Naxpro-Truss are priced according to diameter and finish. A complete 2-metre diameter circle in standard mill-finish aluminium typically costs approximately €1,800 to €2,000 including all connection hardware. Mid-range sizes such as 4-metre circles cost around €3,600 to €3,900, whilst 7-metre circles are priced at approximately €6,300 to €6,800. The largest standard 10-metre diameter systems cost roughly €9,000 to €9,500. Black or custom powder-coated finishes add approximately 15–25% to the base price. These prices represent complete circles with eight segments and full connection sets. Individual segments and fractional circles (1/4 and 1/8 configurations) are priced proportionally. Volume discounts apply for multiple units, and B2B wholesale pricing is available for resellers and production companies. All prices include LTT's 3-year warranty, with free shipping on orders over €69 within Germany.
For standard exhibition booth applications, 3-metre to 5-metre diameter FD 34 circles provide the optimal balance between visual impact and practical booth dimensions. A 3-metre circle fits comfortably within a 3×3 metre booth space, creating an impressive overhead feature without overwhelming the floor area or interfering with visitor circulation. Four-metre circles work well in 4×4 metre or 3×6 metre booth configurations, providing substantial presence whilst leaving adequate perimeter space for graphics, product displays, and staff interaction areas. Five-metre circles suit larger 5×5 metre or corner booth locations where you want to create a dramatic architectural statement. Consider ceiling height restrictions—most exhibition venues have 4 to 6 metre ceiling heights, so suspended circles must account for rigging hardware, clearance requirements, and the visual proportion between circle diameter and suspension height. Smaller 2-metre circles excel as secondary design elements or product spotlight features within larger booth layouts.
The minimum number of rigging points for suspending FD 34 circular truss systems depends on circle diameter and suspended loads. Circles up to 4 metres diameter typically require four evenly distributed lifting points positioned at 90° intervals around the perimeter. Five-metre to 7-metre circles should use six lifting points at 60° spacing to prevent excessive deflection and ensure even load distribution. Circles 8 metres diameter and larger generally require eight lifting points at 45° intervals—conveniently, this corresponds to one lifting point per segment in the standard eight-segment configuration. These recommendations assume moderate distributed loads such as lighting fixtures, fabric graphics, or decorative elements. Concentrated heavy loads, asymmetric rigging, or specific venue requirements may necessitate additional lifting points or engineered rigging solutions. Always consult the manufacturer's load tables and engage a qualified rigging professional or structural engineer to calculate appropriate rigging point quantities, positions, and rated capacities for your specific application and local safety regulations.
FD 34 circles from Naxpro-Truss use standardised conical coupler connection systems that are dimensionally similar to other professional truss manufacturers, but direct compatibility is not guaranteed and mixing brands is generally not recommended for structural applications. The 50mm chord tube diameter and connection bolt patterns follow industry conventions shared by manufacturers such as Eurotruss, Prolyte, and Global Truss. However, subtle differences in manufacturing tolerances, coupler dimensions, and hole positioning can create alignment issues or compromise connection strength when mixing components from different manufacturers. For non-critical decorative applications where structural loads are minimal, experienced riggers sometimes successfully combine compatible systems, but this practice requires careful inspection and testing. For professional installations involving suspended loads, public access, or safety-critical applications, use components exclusively from a single manufacturer's product line. This ensures full compatibility, maintains warranty coverage, and meets the engineering assumptions underlying published load ratings and safety certifications required under DGUV Vorschrift 17 and EN 1090 standards.