F. Flying & Rigging Systems
Batten
batten, stage batten, lighting batten, scenery batten
What is a Batten?
A batten is a horizontal pipe or tube suspended above the stage from which scenery, lighting, and curtains are hung. It is the fundamental load-bearing element in stage flying systems. Battens are typically made from steel pipe (usually 1.5" – 2" diameter) and are suspended by multiple lift lines.
How It Works
Battens are hung from a flying system (counterweight or motorized) at evenly spaced points along their length. The load is distributed across the lift lines. Scenery, lights, or curtains attach to the batten using clamps, hooks, or tie lines.
Key Components
Scenic battenFor hanging scenery and drops
Electric battenFor lighting instruments (with cable management)
Lighting battenDedicated pipe for lights
Jack battenA shorter batten hung from a main batten
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 38mm – 60mm (1.5" – 2.5") |
| Length | Up to full stage width |
| Material | Galvanized steel pipe |
| Load Capacity | 200kg – 1,000kg per batten |
| Suspension Points | Every 1.5m – 3m |