Spigot Truss Load Test Certificate: What Buyers Need to Know
When sourcing aluminum truss for events, exhibitions, or structural applications, one document often separates professional suppliers from the rest: the spigot truss load test certificate. This certificate provides verified load capacities based on physical testing, not just theoretical calculations. For buyers, understanding how to read these certificates and load tables is essential to ensure safety and compliance.
In this guide, we explain what a spigot truss load test certificate is, how to interpret load data, and what to look for when evaluating a factory’s testing credentials. We also reference real TÜV-tested load tables from our own product range, so you can see exactly what the numbers mean.
What Is a Spigot Truss Load Test Certificate?
A load test certificate is an official document issued after a truss sample is subjected to controlled loads in a testing facility. The test measures how much weight a truss can support over a given span, both as a distributed load (weight spread evenly across the span) and as a point load (weight applied at a single point). The results are used to create load tables that specify safe working loads for each span length.
For spigot trusses—which connect via conical connectors and pins—the certificate verifies that the entire system, including joints, performs reliably under load. This is especially important because spigot connections can be a weak point if not manufactured precisely.
How to Read a Load Table
Load tables typically list spans in meters, with two columns: distributed load (kg/m) and point load (kg). The distributed load tells you how many kilograms per meter the truss can safely carry across its entire length. The point load tells you the maximum weight that can be applied at a single point, usually at the center.
For example, our WRF-29 Ladder Truss has a load table that starts at 1 meter span with 990 kg/m distributed and 990 kg point load. At 3 meters, the numbers drop to 168 kg/m and 115 kg. This drop-off is normal: longer spans have less load capacity because of increased bending moments.
Real TÜV-Tested Data from Our Factory
All load tables below are based on TÜV-tested factory data. We provide them so you can compare models and choose the right truss for your application.
WRF-29 Ladder Truss
- Main tube: 50x3mm, Sub tube: 25x2mm, Brace tube: 20x2mm
- Material: 6082/6061-T6
- Available lengths: 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300 cm
- Load table (Span m / Distributed kg/m / Point kg):
- 1 / 990 / 990
- 2 / 340 / 340
- 3 / 168 / 115
- 4 / 87 / 43
- 5 / 51 / 20
- 6 / 26 / 10
WRT-29 Triangle Truss
- Main tube: 50x3mm, Sub tube: 30x2mm, Brace tube: 20x2mm
- Material: 6082/6061-T6
- Available lengths: 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400 cm
- Load table (Span m / Distributed kg/m / Point kg):
- 3 / 371 / 557
- 4 / 250 / 500
- 5 / 139 / 348
- 6 / 109 / 327
- 7 / 85 / 298
- 8 / 67 / 268
WRS-29 Square Truss
- Main tube: 50x3mm, Sub tube: 25x2mm, Brace tube: 20x2mm
- Material: 6082/6061-T6
- Available lengths: 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400 cm
- Load table (Span m / Distributed kg/m / Point kg):
- 1 / 1942 / 1942
- 2 / 976 / 1899
- 3 / 658 / 1766
- 4 / 488 / 1466
- 5 / 392 / 1150
- 6 / 317 / 948
WRS-30 Square Truss
- Main tube: 50x3mm, Sub tube: 25x2mm, Brace tube: 20x2mm
- Material: 6082/6061-T6
- Available lengths: 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400 cm
- Load table (Span m / Distributed kg/m / Point kg):
- 1 / 1942 / 1942
- 2 / 976 / 1899
- 3 / 658 / 1766
- 4 / 488 / 1466
- 5 / 392 / 1150
- 6 / 317 / 948
WRS-40 Square Truss
- Main tube: 50x3mm, Sub tube: 30x2mm, Brace tube: 25x2mm
- Material: 6082/6061-T6
- Available lengths: 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400 cm
- Load table (Span m / Distributed kg/m / Point kg):
- 3 / 936 / 718
- 4 / 732 / 680
- 5 / 465 / 644
- 6 / 320 / 612
- 7 / 232 / 585
- 8 / 176 / 560
WRS-4060 Square Truss
- Main tube: 50x3mm, Sub tube: 50x2mm, Brace tube: 30x2mm
- Material: 6082/6061-T6
- Available lengths: 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400 cm
- Load table (Span m / Distributed kg/m / Point kg):
- 4 / 805 / 1610
- 5 / 560 / 1400
- 6 / 403 / 1209
- 7 / 301 / 1054
- 8 / 247 / 988
- 9 / 210 / 945
WRS-52 520x520 Square Truss
- Main tube: 50x3mm, Sub tube: 50x2mm, Brace tube: 25x2mm
- Material: 6082/6061-T6
- Available lengths: 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400 cm
- Load table (Span m / Distributed kg/m / Point kg):
- 7 / 460 / 1255
- 8 / 346 / 1130
- 9 / 303 / 1008
- 10 / 241 / 923
- 11 / 182 / 885
- 12 / 164 / 782
WRS-5060 500x600 Square Truss
- Main tube: 50x3mm, Sub tube: 50x2mm, Brace tube: 30x2mm
- Material: 6082/6061-T6
- Available lengths: 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400 cm
- Load table (Span m / Distributed kg/m / Point kg):
- 4 / 805 / 1610
- 5 / 560 / 1400
- 6 / 403 / 1209
- 7 / 301 / 1054
- 8 / 247 / 988
- 9 / 210 / 945
Why Certificates Matter for Sourcing
When buying truss from overseas, you cannot physically test every batch. A load test certificate from a recognized body like TÜV Rheinland gives you confidence that the product meets specified performance. At our factory, we hold ISO 9001:2015 certification and our truss is TÜV-tested. This means the load tables you see are not theoretical—they are based on actual tests.
As a buyer, always ask for the certificate and check that the model and load figures match the truss you are ordering. Also verify the material grade (e.g., 6082/6061-T6) and tube dimensions, as these directly affect strength.
How to Choose the Right Truss
- Determine the span: Measure the distance between support points. Longer spans require stronger truss profiles.
- Calculate the load: Add up the weight of all equipment (lights, speakers, banners) and consider dynamic loads (e.g., wind, movement).
- Compare load tables: Select a truss whose distributed load at your span exceeds your total load divided by span length. Also check the point load if you have heavy concentrated items.
- Consider the shape: Ladder truss is often used for straight runs, triangle for roof edges, square for general structures. For heavier loads, larger profiles like WRS-52 or WRS-5060 are suitable.
For example, if you need a 6-meter span with a total equipment weight of 1500 kg evenly distributed, you would need at least 250 kg/m capacity. Looking at our square trusses, WRS-29 supports 317 kg/m at 6 meters, so it would work. If you have a 2000 kg point load at the center of a 4-meter span, WRS-29 supports 1466 kg point load, so you would need a stronger model like WRS-4060 (1610 kg point load at 4m).
Sourcing Tips
- Request the certificate: Always ask for the load test certificate for the specific model you are buying.
- Check the testing body: Recognized bodies like TÜV Rheinland add credibility.
- Verify consistency: Ensure the certificate’s load values match the load table provided by the factory.
- Ask about materials: Confirm the alloy (6082/6061-T6) and tube dimensions.
- Consider lead time and logistics: While we do not quote shipping here, factor in that factory-direct sourcing often allows for customization and better pricing.
FAQ
Q: What is a spigot truss? A: A spigot truss uses conical spigot connectors that slide into the truss ends and are secured with pins. This allows for quick assembly and disassembly, making it popular for portable stages and exhibition stands.
Q: How often should truss be load-tested? A: Load testing is typically done during product development and certification. In practice, truss should be inspected regularly for damage, and load capacities should be derated if the truss shows wear. Always follow local regulations and manufacturer guidelines.
Q: Can I use the load table for any length of truss? A: No. Load tables are specific to each model and span. Always use the table for the exact span you are bridging. If your span is not listed, interpolate conservatively or consult the manufacturer.
Q: Do you provide load test certificates for all your truss? A: Yes, our truss models are TÜV-tested, and we can provide certificates upon request. The load tables on our product pages reflect the tested values.
For more details, visit our product pages: WRF-29, WRT-29, WRS-29, WRS-30, WRS-40, WRS-4060, WRS-52, and WRS-5060.