How Film Speed Handles Truss Installations — From Design to Build

Jun 26, 2026 | how-to | installations | rigging | stage | truss | XSF

Permanent truss installations don't leave room for error. The structure has to be right the first time — load-rated, properly engineered, and built to last. At Film Speed, truss installation is a core part of what we do. We specialize in permanent and semi-permanent builds for Churches & Houses of Worship, Arenas, Venues, & Stadiums, Performing Arts Centers & Auditoriums, Studios & Sound Stages, Gyms, Fitness Facilities, Aerial & Bungee Studios, Activations & Trade Shows, Attractions, Obstacle & Ninja Courses, Museums & Science Centers, Hotels & Convention Centers — and any application where a permanent, load-rated structure is the only acceptable answer.

3D design render of ModTruss arch for Sips & Sounds Summer Festival — Film Speed
Design render: client-submitted concept for the Sips & Sounds festival entrance arch.

Site Assessment First

Every installation starts with understanding the space. We assess the full structural picture — anchor points, load paths, ceiling height, floor surface conditions, and any constraints that could affect the design or require engineering workarounds. We work on both interior and exterior installations — freestanding systems that don't rely on the building structure, and retrofits that integrate directly with existing architecture.

We can conduct assessments remotely using architectural drawings, structural plans, and as-built documentation — or we can do a site visit for projects where a physical walkthrough makes sense. For permanent installs, we coordinate directly with the facility — architects, contractors, or ownership — to make sure the rig integrates cleanly with the building.

We don't design in a vacuum. The site drives the plan.

Design and Engineering

Once we understand the space, we design the rig. That means specifying truss spans, base plate placement, vertical support positioning, and connection hardware — all sized to the actual load requirements of the project.

For permitted installs, we work with licensed engineers to produce stamped drawings. This is standard practice on permanent builds, and we treat it that way — not as an upsell, but as part of doing the job correctly.

Technical engineering drawings and 3D structural model for Sips & Sounds ModTruss arch — Film Speed
Engineering drawings: plan view, elevations, and 3D structural model used for the build.


Truss We Trust

XSF 12" x 12" Protective Bolt Plate Utility Truss — Film Speed

XSF Truss is tube-style truss that is standard in rigging applications — known for being the lightest and strongest truss on the market due to precise engineering. Clean profile, proven performance. Manufactured in USA by AWS certified welders.  Shop XSF Truss →

ModTruss 6" Aluminum Truss — Film Speed

ModTruss is a fresh idea in the truss world. With connections every 3 inches, it's a truly modular building component — think erector set for adults. Endlessly configurable for custom builds that standard truss can't solve. Manufactured in USA by AWS certified welders.Shop ModTruss →

 

The Build

On install day, we execute the plan methodically. Truss goes up in sequence, connections are verified, and nothing gets loaded until the structure is confirmed. Every component is checked against the engineering plan before the next phase begins.

Our crew is certified for elevated work environments — including aerial lift operation, over-water installations, and rope access. That means we can take on builds that require more than a ladder and a scissor lift, and we don't have to subcontract the hard parts out.

We coordinate with other trades on site when needed and communicate clearly throughout — if something in the field doesn't match the plan, we solve it rather than work around it.

Film Speed crew assembling ModTruss arch on site for Sips & Sounds Summer Festival
On-site build: the crew assembling the ModTruss arch structure prior to dressing and load-in.

Commissioning and Handoff

Before we leave, the installation is tested under load and documented. Facility staff get a walkthrough of the system — how it's rated, what it's designed to support, and what to watch for over time. Permanent installs deserve a proper handoff, not just a signature on a work order.

Completed ModTruss arch installation dressed and ready for Sips & Sounds Summer Festival — Film Speed
Finished installation: the completed arch fully dressed and ready for event day.

Have a Project?

If you're planning a permanent or temporary truss installation, get in touch. We'll talk through the scope, the space, and what a properly engineered build looks like for your application.

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