what are on stage lighting pipes called | ART-TECH

Imagine a concert or theater production without any form of lighting. It would be dull, lifeless, and lacking the energy that lighting brings to the stage. On-stage lighting is a crucial element in any performance, helping to set the mood, create ambiance, and highlight key moments. One essential component of on-stage lighting is lighting pipes, which are responsible for holding and supporting various lighting fixtures.

Lighting pipes, also known as lighting bars or truss systems, play a significant role in the overall design and execution of on-stage lighting. They provide a sturdy and versatile platform for mounting lighting fixtures, allowing lighting designers to create dynamic and visually stunning effects. In this article, we will delve into the world of on-stage lighting pipes and explore what they are called and how they are used in various performance settings.

Types of Lighting Pipes

Lighting pipes come in various shapes and sizes, each designed to serve a specific purpose in the world of on-stage lighting. One common type of lighting pipe is the standard lighting bar, which is a metal beam typically suspended above the stage. Lighting bars are equipped with mounting points for lighting fixtures, allowing designers to easily position and adjust the angle of the lights as needed.

Another type of lighting pipe is the truss system, which consists of interconnected metal bars forming a grid-like structure. Truss systems are often used in larger performance venues where a greater number of lighting fixtures need to be supported. Truss systems are versatile and can be configured in different shapes and sizes to accommodate the specific needs of a production.

In addition to standard lighting bars and truss systems, there are also specialty lighting pipes designed for specific purposes. For example, boom arms are lighting pipes that extend horizontally from the stage, allowing designers to position lights in a specific direction. Boom arms are commonly used in theater productions to illuminate actors on stage from a specific angle.

Materials Used in Lighting Pipes

Lighting pipes are typically made from durable and lightweight materials that can withstand the rigors of live performance settings. Common materials used in the construction of lighting pipes include aluminum, steel, and carbon fiber. Aluminum is a popular choice for lighting pipes due to its lightweight nature and high strength-to-weight ratio, making it easy to install and transport.

Steel is another common material used in the construction of lighting pipes, known for its durability and load-bearing capacity. Steel lighting pipes are suitable for heavy-duty applications where a greater amount of weight needs to be supported. Carbon fiber is a more exotic material used in lighting pipes, prized for its high strength and low weight. Carbon fiber lighting pipes are often used in high-end performance venues where quality and aesthetics are paramount.

Installation and Rigging of Lighting Pipes

Installing and rigging lighting pipes is a crucial aspect of on-stage lighting design, requiring careful planning and execution to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the lighting setup. Before installing lighting pipes, designers must assess the weight and distribution of the lighting fixtures to determine the appropriate type and configuration of lighting pipes needed.

Once the appropriate lighting pipes have been selected, they must be securely rigged to the overhead structure of the performance venue using specialized hardware such as clamps, couplers, and safety cables. Rigging lighting pipes requires a thorough understanding of rigging principles and safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure the stability of the lighting setup.

During the installation process, it is essential to follow industry standards and guidelines for rigging lighting pipes, such as the ESTA Technical Standards for Entertainment Rigging. These standards provide detailed instructions on how to safely rig lighting pipes, ensuring the protection of performers, crew members, and audience members.

Key Considerations for Lighting Pipe Design

When designing a lighting pipe system for a performance venue, several key considerations must be taken into account to ensure the success of the lighting setup. One important consideration is the weight capacity of the lighting pipes, which must be able to support the combined weight of the lighting fixtures and any additional equipment such as trusses and cables.

Another crucial consideration is the overall layout and configuration of the lighting pipes, which must be strategically positioned to provide adequate coverage and illumination for the performance space. Lighting designers must carefully plan the placement of lighting pipes to avoid shadows, glare, and other visual distractions that can detract from the audience's experience.

In addition to weight capacity and layout, designers must also consider the ease of access and maintenance of the lighting pipes. Lighting pipes should be designed and installed in such a way that allows for easy adjustment, repair, and replacement of lighting fixtures, minimizing downtime and maximizing the efficiency of the lighting setup.

Advancements in Lighting Pipe Technology

As technology continues to advance, so too do the capabilities and functionalities of lighting pipes in the world of on-stage lighting. One notable advancement in lighting pipe technology is the integration of motorized and automated systems for adjusting the position and angle of lighting fixtures. Motorized lighting pipes allow designers to create dynamic and choreographed lighting effects with precision and accuracy.

Another area of innovation in lighting pipe technology is the use of LED lighting fixtures, which are energy-efficient, versatile, and long-lasting. LED lighting fixtures have revolutionized on-stage lighting design, offering a wide range of color options, intensity levels, and special effects that can enhance the overall visual appeal of a performance.

In addition to motorized systems and LED fixtures, advancements in materials and manufacturing techniques have led to the development of lighter, stronger, and more versatile lighting pipes. Modern lighting pipes are designed to be modular, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly, as well as customization to fit the specific requirements of a performance venue.

In conclusion, lighting pipes are an essential component of on-stage lighting design, providing a stable and versatile platform for mounting lighting fixtures and creating visually stunning effects. From standard lighting bars to specialty boom arms, lighting pipes come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate the specific needs of different performance settings. By understanding the types, materials, installation methods, design considerations, and technological advancements of lighting pipes, lighting designers can create captivating and immersive lighting experiences that enhance the overall impact of a performance.