X-Array™ Loudspeaker Systems
ging track when custom wire-rope rigging straps
are required. The standard Xrss and Xrsl wire-
rope rigging straps use the NH32102-2 fitting.
The Xrhp pickup hinge is typically recommended
in applications where no grid is used, however,
custom wire-rope assemblies using the NH32102-
2 double-stud fitting may be substituted in light
duty applications where the total weight sus-
pended is 454 kg (1,000 lb) or less. When lifting
columns weighing more than 454 kg (1,000 lb) –
but less than 726 kg (1,600 lb) – the Xrhp pickup
hinge must be used.
Flying a Single Enclosure: When linked to-
gether in columns, X-Array™ enclosures must
always be suspended vertically (in other words,
the enclosures may be suspended upside down
or right side up, but never sideways). However,
a single enclosure may be suspended without a
grid in any orientation – vertically (right side up or
upside down) or horizontally (sideways). Because
the weight of a single enclosure is below the
working-load limits of the individual rigging points
and the overall enclosure, the enclosure can be
suspended in any configuration. Several possibili-
ties are shown in
Figure 23
. Custom wire-rope
rigging-strap assemblies would typically be em-
ployed using the New Haven NH32102-2 double-
stud fittings for this application. It should be noted
that all of the configurations shown in
Figure 23
are not specifically covered in section
3.3 Simpli-
fied Structural-Rating Guidelines, as shown in
Figure 19
. These configurations would, however,
be covered in section
3.4 Complex Structural-Rat-
ing Analysis.
3.6 Electro-Voice Structural-Analysis Proce-
dures
Electro-Voice maintains a structural pull-test facil-
ity in Buchanan, Michigan USA which includes
load cells with digital-electronic display and re-
cording. The load cells are calibrated annually by
an independent laboratory to a standard traceable
to the United States National Bureau of Stan-
dards. This pull-test facility is capable of pulling to
destruction individual rigging components as well
as complete loudspeaker systems. This facility is
utilized by the design engineering group to test
engineering prototypes, and by the manufacturing
quality assurance group for testing production
components and systems.
Electro-Voice utilizes state-of-the-art computer-
modeling programs for structural analysis
throughout the development of loudspeaker sys-
tems. The computer modeling enables the com-
plex forces in the rigging components and
enclosures to be analyzed for loudspeakers as-
sembled into arrays in both static and dynamic
conditions.
Structural testing and computer modeling were
used throughout the engineering development of
all of the X-Array™ individual rigging components
and complete loudspeaker systems described in
this manual. Testing and modeling involving both
anticipated use and anticipated misuse were per-
formed as part of the analysis. Engineering proto-
types were stressed to failure and designs were
revised based on those test results. Production
systems and components were stressed to failure
for verification of the final designs.
4. RIGGING INSPECTION AND PRECAUTIONS
Electro-Voice X-Array™ Loudspeaker Sys-
tems: Prior to each use, inspect the loudspeaker
enclosures for any cracks, deformations, missing
or damaged components which could reduce en-
closure strength. Inspect the track and bracket
assemblies on the enclosures for any cracks, de-
formations, missing or loose screws which could
reduce the flying hardware strength. Replace any
loudspeaker systems that are damaged or miss-
ing hardware. Never exceed the limitations or
maximum recommended load for the X-Array™
systems.
Electro-Voice X-Array™ Rigging Hinges: Prior
to each use, inspect the rigging hinges for cracks,
burrs, corrosion or missing or damaged compo-
nents which could reduce hinge assembly
strength. Replace any rigging hinges that are
damaged or missing hardware. Always double
check that each rigging hinge is securely locked
into position in the track on the X-Array™ enclo-
sures and grids before lifting. Never exceed the
limitations or maximum recommended load for the
X-Array™ hinges.
Wire-Rope Rigging-Strap Assemblies: Prior to
each use, inspect the wire rope for cuts, abrasion,
tears, fraying, knots, chemical damage, burns, or
corrosion which could reduce rigging strap
strength. Inspect the rigging fittings for any
cracks, burrs, deformation, corrosion or missing
or damaged components which could reduce fit-
ting strength. Replace any rigging straps that
have damaged wire rope, or damaged or missing
hardware. Always double check that each fitting
on each of the rigging straps is securely locked
into position in the track on the X-Array™ enclo-
sures and grids before lifting. Never exceed the
limitations or maximum recommended load for the
rigging strap assemblies.
Grid Assemblies: Prior to each use, inspect the
grid assembly and associated hardware for any
cracks, deformations, broken welds, corrosion,
missing or damaged components which could re-
duce the grid assembly strength. Replace any
damaged grid assemblies. Never exceed the limi-
tations or maximum recommended load intended
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