Wenger Corporation today announced Turbo Mode, a new capability for qualifying Spikemark-controlled J.R. Clancy PowerLift® hoists and low-speed Summit Theatron™ hoists. Turbo Mode allows a hoist to lift or lower at up to twice its rated speed when operating at or below half capacity.
During jogging, load sensing automatically activates Turbo Mode when the load is within the approved range; Turbo Mode is deactivated if the load exceeds the threshold. No separate operator commands are required. Rated lifting capacity remains unchanged.
At half load or lower, PowerLift’s 0-30 feet-per-minute (fpm) and 0-120 fpm models and the low-speed, 0-30 fpm Summit hoists can run at twice their rated speed. The 0-180 fpm PowerLift models can run at 150 percent of rated speed; the additional speed can also support performance cueing.
“Turbo Mode is an important new benefit with these hoists, but the larger story is what Spikemark software makes possible,” said Andy Knapp, Product Manager at Wenger Corporation. “Its modular platform streamlines service and expansion, while our team’s focused development cycles help us respond quickly to customer feedback. Now venues have a clear, simple path from everyday rigging to advanced automation.”
One Evolving Ecosystem. Turbo Mode is enabled by Spikemark software, a Stagehand lineset motor controller and load sensing at the hoist. Spikemark provides a unified control platform, while Stagehand manages each hoist’s operating parameters and motion. Components can be easily replaced, upgraded or returned for maintenance by a dealer or end user, potentially reducing on-site service and production disruption.
Venues can also move beyond permanently installed rigging by adding purchased or rented Creative Conners automation for individual productions. Turntables, deck winches and other motion-control equipment can operate within the same Spikemark ecosystem, allowing venues to add automation on a show-by-show basis.
Expanded Hoist Flexibility. The seventh-generation PowerLift offers several Spikemark-controlled variable-speed configurations, along with fixed-speed Push Button and Sure Target models for utility applications that do not require Spikemark. PowerLift also returns to a load-side secondary brake, simplifying service by supporting the load during gear motor maintenance.
Summit also gains expanded electrical and installation flexibility. The 205-fpm models are now available for either 208-volt or 480-volt service. A revised lift-line arrangement allows the first lift line to be positioned as close as one foot from the hoist.
Turbo Mode is available for qualifying new systems, while some existing installations may be eligible through a Spikemark controls upgrade. Customers should work with their Wenger/J.R. Clancy representative to evaluate compatibility and system requirements.
About Wenger Corporation
For 80 years, Wenger Corporation has enriched lives by enabling and inspiring great performances. Wenger’s portfolio – including Wenger, J.R. Clancy, GearBoss, Creative Conners, Lutefish and Texas Scenic – provides high-quality solutions for music education, performing arts venues, athletic facilities and musicians. From staging systems, acoustical shells and theatrical rigging to active acoustics, advanced automation and real-time music collaboration, Wenger combines innovative products, engineering expertise and customer-focused service to empower performers, educators and venues to create transformative experiences. For more information, call +1.507.455.4100 or visit www.wengercorp.com.
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Whitney Winkels
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