Truss and rigging
Global Truss F34: parts, chart criteria and rigging limits
Identify Global Truss America F34, its supplied pins and the correct load-chart case before treating a layout as a structural design.
Identify the truss
F34 is a square aluminum truss family from Global Truss America. This guide covers straight sections with the documented conical connection. It does not establish compatibility with Eurotruss FD34, another brand or a different Global Truss family.
Section and connection references
- Example section
- SQ-4111: 1.5 m overall length and 290 mm overall width. Identify each actual section separately.
- Published tube dimensions
- Main chords: 50 × 2 mm; diagonals: 20 × 2 mm.
- Connection
- Conical coupler, tapered pin and safety clip. The official F34 sheet requires pins supplied by Global Truss.
The official sheet separates strength with L/180 deflection limits, strength-only data and reduced loading under its stated standard. These are different criteria. Have the structural designer identify the applicable case rather than choosing the largest value. The table’s loads are not additive and dynamic or shock forces are not included.
Describe the structure before choosing parts
To compare a truss proposal, explain the equipment to support and sketch approximate positions, geometry and supports, including what is still undecided. Floor-supported and suspended solutions require different reviews. F34 sections, connections and the table criterion are confirmed for the actual case; a shared size with FD34 or a planning-tool view does not settle that choice.
Parts and supporting documents
Specify section references, genuine connection parts, supports and attachment positions on a rigging plot. A floor-standing arch also requires bases and an approved stability design; a drawing tool that lists dimensions does not determine ballast or load capacity.
Prepare the configuration
- Record all component references, labels, lengths and inspection status. Keep unidentified mixed hardware out of the assembly until its identity and compatibility are documented.
- With unloaded components safely accessible, note damaged chords, welds, connection holes and missing clips. Do not force a misaligned joint or alter a pin or hole to make it fit.
- Compare actual support and load positions with the F34 engineering sheet. It requires loads at panel points and review of rigging plots by a licensed structural engineer; bridles need that engineer’s written approval.
Selection, quotes and troubleshooting
- A conical connector from another brand fits. Does that make it compatible?
- The planning tool shows a ground-supported goalpost. Does the beam table prove it is stable?
- Can I add the center-point and distributed-load allowances?
- Should we assess suspended or ground-supported lighting?
- What helps us quote while the lighting plot is still changing?
A conical connector from another brand fits. Does that make it compatible?
No. Compare manufacturer, family and connector/pin/clip references with the documented parts list. Physical fit and visual similarity are not documented compatibility. Do not use an unidentified substitute to complete a connection; resolve it with the responsible supplier before loading.
To assess an alternative, provide references for available sections and hardware, the purpose and approximate positions of lights or scenic elements. We can consider documented parts supply or a layout using another fully identified system. Mixing brands is not a way to complete the quote; each alternative needs its own connections, supports and project review before loading.
The planning tool shows a ground-supported goalpost. Does the beam table prove it is stable?
No. Record the complete geometry, bases, supports, attached surfaces and intended loads for review. A horizontal span table does not define column capacity, corner behavior, overturning resistance or wind limits. Keep the proposal out of use until the complete configuration has its required design; no universal base-plate weight or ballast quantity follows from the drawing.
Can I add the center-point and distributed-load allowances?
No. The official notes explicitly say the tabulated loads are not additive. Identify the actual combined load positions and get the applicable assessment. Truss self-weight is already included in the published data, so do not deduct it again or use that fact to add an extra load allowance. Confirm the chosen table criterion as well as the span.
Should we assess suspended or ground-supported lighting?
We can compare fixture positions, visual goals, sightlines and the space needed for supports and circulation. A suspended option requires documented venue points; a ground-supported option requires its own stability design. If those conditions cannot be resolved, we can assess another equipment position or a documented support system without transferring the F34 table to another geometry.
For conferences and awards, mark speakers, lectern, screen, scenic backdrop and planned camera positions on the sketch. This helps us discuss lighting and structure positions alongside access and award-recipient routes. We can compare other equipment positions or a scope without added surfaces; drapes, logos and screens must be identified from the initial inquiry so their loads and exposure are included in the appropriate review.
What helps us quote while the lighting plot is still changing?
A preliminary sketch showing equipment functions and positions is enough to start. Separate known weights from missing data and include attachments, cabling and planned scenic elements. We can discuss supply and an installation or assistance scope to be confirmed. Every change in position, load or added surface requires review before installation; an initial quote does not freeze an approved design.
Limits before installation
Use the documentation for the actual F34 system. A manual for a separate packaged TRUSS/SYSTEM kit does not establish this assembly’s operating limits. Do not use the engineering drawing to fabricate or repair parts, suspend from an unapproved point or change connections under load.
Manufacturer documentation
- Official SQ-4111 F34 section
- Official F34 engineering sheet linked by the product
- Official documentation portal
Use the engineering sheet and documentation for the Global Truss F34 components identified in the project. Confirm with the structural designer which load-chart case applies to the actual configuration.
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