Spigot Truss vs Bolt Truss: Which Should You Choose?

Introduction

When purchasing an aluminum truss system, one of the first decisions buyers need to make is whether to choose a spigot truss or a bolt truss.

Both systems are manufactured from high-strength aluminum alloy and are widely used in concerts, exhibitions, churches, festivals, and temporary event structures.

The primary difference lies in the connection method rather than the truss itself.

Understanding these differences helps event organizers, rental companies, and contractors select the most suitable Event Truss System for their projects.

What Is a Bolt Truss?

A bolt truss uses bolts and nuts to connect individual truss sections.

This traditional connection system has been widely used for many years.

Advantages include:

• Simple manufacturing

• Lower purchase cost

• Reliable structural performance

• Easy replacement of hardware

Bolt trusses remain popular for permanent installations and projects where installation speed is less critical.

What Is a Spigot Truss?

A spigot truss uses specially designed spigots, connection pins, and retaining clips to join truss sections.

Instead of tightening bolts, installers simply insert the spigot and secure it with pins.

This connection method significantly improves installation efficiency while maintaining excellent structural strength.

Professional concert touring companies and rental businesses commonly use spigot trusses because they reduce labor time.

Installation Speed

One of the biggest differences between the two systems is installation efficiency.

Bolt Truss

Requires:

• Bolts

• Nuts

• Tools

• Tightening each connection

Installation generally takes longer.

Spigot Truss

Requires:

• Spigots

• Pins

• R-clips

Connections can be completed quickly without tightening multiple bolts.

For projects involving frequent assembly and dismantling, spigot systems offer a significant advantage.

Appearance

Spigot trusses generally provide a cleaner appearance because the connection hardware is more integrated into the truss design.

Bolt trusses often have visible bolts extending outside the connection plates.

For concerts, exhibitions, television productions, and weddings where aesthetics matter, many customers prefer spigot trusses.

Load Capacity

Both systems can provide excellent structural performance when properly engineered.

Load capacity depends on factors such as:

• Truss dimensions

• Wall thickness

• Material grade

• Span length

• Structural design

• Manufacturing quality

The connection method alone does not determine the overall load capacity.

Engineering calculations remain the most important factor.

Cost Comparison

Bolt Truss

Advantages:

• Lower manufacturing cost

• Lower purchase price

• Suitable for budget-sensitive projects

Spigot Truss

Advantages:

• Faster installation

• Lower labor costs

• Improved working efficiency

• Better appearance

Although spigot trusses often have a higher initial purchase price, they may reduce long-term operating costs for rental companies through faster assembly and dismantling.

Typical Applications

Bolt Truss

Commonly used for:

• Permanent installations

• Churches

• Schools

• Small event venues

• Budget-conscious projects

Spigot Truss

Commonly used for:

• Concert tours

• Rental companies

• Festivals

• Television studios

• Exhibition halls

• Outdoor events

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose a bolt truss if you need:

• Lower initial investment

• Permanent installation

• Occasional use

Choose a spigot truss if you need:

• Frequent transportation

• Fast installation

• Professional touring

• Rental applications

• Large event production

Final Thoughts

Both bolt trusses and spigot trusses are widely used throughout the event industry.

Neither system is universally better—the ideal choice depends on your budget, installation frequency, labor costs, and project requirements.

For professional event production where speed and efficiency are critical, spigot trusses have become the preferred solution.

For projects where lower purchase cost is the primary consideration, bolt trusses remain an excellent option.

Understanding these differences allows buyers to choose the most appropriate Event Truss System for long-term success.

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