Summit Steel launched the latest in its SmarTmast range, the SmarTmast 4, which has specifically been designed to fly line array PA systems quickly, easily, and at sufficient height.
“We’ve listened carefully to feedback from lots of sound engineers over the last 12 months,” says Summit’s Jon Bray. “And come up with this solution to address all their needs when flying line arrays on masts.” Height is always a crucial factor with line array designs in open spaces.
The SmarTmast 4 had its first outing at the high profile Music On Fire, a son et lumière and firework spectacular staged on the grounds of the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, England. Four SmarTmast 4’s were used by sound designer Paul Keating for the VDOSC main stage PA arrays and outfills that were supplied by Delta Sound.
A key factor in maximizing the full 15m height of the SmarTmast 4 is that the chain hoists are located at the base of the structure rather than at the top, as has been the case in previous incarnations. The masts are designed to lift loads of up 2000Kgs to 15m trim, with independent back and front lift points on the PA flybar. The cruciform shaped bases have the head offset at 45 degrees, so the PA can be stacked in a clear area on the ground (without having to lift it onto the legs) and then picked up cleanly and with minimum effort.
The towers are self-erecting using a sheer-leg system, needing no cranes or mechanical handling devices or vehicles at all apart from a forklift to position the ballast weights. The ballast weights are slim steel plates, specifically designed for the specific masts. The diagonal braces, screw jacks, and head beam were all developed by Summit and work on the SuperTruss lug system.
Summit launched its original SmarTmast back in 2001, and has since developed different versions giving higher reaches, greater weight loadings, and accommodating other technical items like LED screens.