Constructing a Lighting Grid

J

Jeremy7

Active member
Does anyone have any sources for building a lighting grid? I'm trying to find some pictures of light grids to use as a reference. Google images doesn't really pull up that much. I have a 30' wide cyclorama that needs a grid.

If you have any pics or some tips on constructing a grid, I would be most appreciative.

Jeremy
 
If you are just looking for images as a reference, search trade show set manufactuers/designers. They have different lighting grids they offer with their show packages. Also, look for film studios that are available for rent. They show off the lighting grid as it is something you are paying for in the rental.
 
Are you looking for this kind of detail?
oz_0136.jpg
 
Doddle Guys said:
When building your lighting gird, I recommend using Schedule 40 2" pipe to hold the weight.

Also, check out this site for photo references of lighting grids:

http://www.simplifiedbuilding.com/blog/category/structures/

Hope this helps
Click to expand...

I am definately going to construct something like this. Right now I'm just constantly screwing things to the garage/studio ceiling. It's getting crowded up there :p
So I am without doubt due for some better means of doing things
 
Hey, thanks for everyone's help. I really appreciate your time.

Doddle Guys said:
When building your lighting gird, I recommend using Schedule 40 2" pipe to hold the weight.
Click to expand...

Is there a reason you suggest using schedule 40 2" pipe? Two inch pipe sounds like it's going to be very heavy. And I suppose you are talking about metal pipe and not PVC, correct?

Does anyone know where to buy the clamps used to attach your lights to the grid? Eventually, I'd like to have a panthograph system, but in the meantime I need to know which size pipe I would need based on the appropriate clamps that will hold the lights to the rail.
 
2" Schedule 40 PVC is pretty strong and if built as a grid, I am sure you could hang from it so long as it was fastened properly to ceiling beams/rafters. I built an entire RV gate out of it 12 years ago here in Arizona. It's held up very well. I know that sounds strange but it was meant to be temporary. It has worked so well I have kept it.
 
Man, PVC for a lighting grid? I just dunno 'bout that...

There are all kinds of shelf and rack system components to join pipe into grids. I have tables made from Hollaender fittings ("speed rail"), a pricey system that uses aluminum pipe.

But I've seen lots of stuff that uses allen-screw clamp fittings for standard (home depot) steel pipe. Takes some google searching to find the various makers.

As for the light clamps, sounds like you want the theatrical c-clamp deals with a 3/8 bolt - check eBay, often there are guys selling several in a lot. Also, google Pyramid Films and give them a shout, wouldn't be surprised if they had dozens lying around, and they're good guys at PF.
 
Ditto on the C-clamps. I have a bunch of those lying around myself.

For constructing your grid it's cheeseboro (also spelled cheeseborough) clamps that are used for joining pipes to pipes.
 
keep in mind that even if pvc is strong you will be putting lots of point pressure with the clamps. And depending on the clamps used they may even puncture it (it has happened to me before). I'm talking about this clamps 365690.jpg
 
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