Autonomous aerial gantry - PLAY
TP700 Aerial Gantry for Acrobatics and Dance - CIRCUS DIVISION
This assembly video provides a good understanding of the role of each element provided.
When you need a secure anchor point that adapts to all conditions, indoors and outdoors, the TP700 is an extremely practical and elegant option. A unique platform for aerial dance and acrobatic disciplines, for amateurs and professionals.
Assembling and disassembling the structure does not involve any complicated or dangerous maneuvers.
What surprises most users is the stability of this equipment. Every detail has been thought out to allow safe practice, even with very dynamic practices.
Questions about the portico ⁉
I try to put as much information about the gantry on this page as possible. At the bottom of this page, there is also a comment system, so I also invite you to consult these comments, many relevant questions have been asked and the answers will surely help you. You can also ask your questions there 😜
Maximum safety with the TP700 Aerial Gantry - Certified and Reliable
The TP700 comes with certificates for use in all environments, whether for professional or amateur use. The entire structure contains no welding.
- The anchor plate is 8mm thick, made of folded and laser-cut steel.
- The legs are laser cut and are made of folded steel. They are 4mm thick.
- The posts are made of hot-dip galvanized steel so they will never rust.
- The support and the manual winch with automatic brake guarantee maximum safety in all phases of assembly and disassembly.
Easy transport and assembly:
- The heaviest element of the structure weighs 10 kg.
- The structure can be assembled and disassembled without any tools.
- The pole sections are 175cm long and are strapped together allowing easy transport in most vehicles.
- All accessories supplied fit in a box that measures 60x40x40cm.
- The posts assemble together quickly and securely with stainless steel spring buttons.
- Each post is secured to its base as well as to the anchor plate using 12mm diameter pins.
- A secure and quick system to set up.
- Mass of the gantry in its 7 meter version: 140 kg.
- Mass of the gantry in its 5.60 meter version: 120Kg.
TP700 Complete Kit Overview - Practical and Compact
Here is a photo of the entire kit: the dismantled posts and all the elements included which fit in the storage box provided with the gantry.
Versatility and modularity for all your equipment
- WLL (Working Load Limit): 400 daN (approx. 400 Kg)
Gantry of the CIRCUS DIVISION range, a range of aerial equipment designed, manufactured and certified in Italy by PLAY Srl in accordance with Directive 2001/95/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 3 December 2001 and the general product safety and European legislation UNI EN 913:20019.
The TP700 can be assembled in several configurations depending on your usage.
- The accessories provided allow you to install your equipment directly on the anchor plate or using a pulley + locking system. This allows you to quickly interchange the different equipment on your gantry.
- Using the 5 sections per post (using the 5 meter cabling) allows the installation of the 7.0 meter high gantry with a base of 5.4mx 5.4mx 5.4m.
- Using 4 sections per post (using the 4 metre cabling) allows the installation of the 5.6 metre high gantry with a base of 4.4mx 4.4mx 4.4m.
- Using 3 sections per post (using the 3 metre cabling) allows the installation of the 4.2 metre high gantry with a base of 3.4mx 3.4mx 3.4m.
- The anchor plate benefits from a design with several anchor points allowing the use of the gantry with aerial fabrics , ropes , aerial hoops , fixed trapezes and other rigging equipment .
- Trapeze anchor : The spacing of the trapeze anchor points on the board is 65cm. This is also the reason why the board is so wide: to be able to properly accommodate a trapeze. With a spacing of 65cm, this allows the board to be used with different sizes of trapeze of 65cm (max) as well as smaller sizes. We do not recommend using it with a wider trapeze (possible twisting of the ropes on wide figures).
Unmatched Stability - Designed for Safety
- 80 mm diameter post for significant stability.
- The tapered lock at the base of each tapered section ensures even weight dispersion and eliminates any possible movement between the pole sections.
- The total mass of 110 kg ensures considerable stability and resistance to sudden weight changes caused by dynamic acrobatics.
Extreme Performance and Safety with the TP700 Gantry
If you have questions, for example, about the use of dynamic apparatus on the gantry, the Dynamic Load Limit is 450 kg with a risk factor of 7 to 1. Dynamic uses inside the triangle of the gantry are therefore possible. For example, figures based on falls on aerial silks. On the other hand, all dynamic figures outside the triangle of the poles are not possible with this gantry. For example: swinging trapeze (fixed trapeze: yes). If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer you by phone or in the comments at the bottom of this page, but if you have questions about more extreme uses, this probably means that you are not trained or accompanied by a professional in safety and aerial rigging. We recommend the training of AERISC, European Association for Research, Innovation and Safety in Circus Arts and/or to surround yourself with professionals.
Not included in the kit:
For information, on our staging photos there may be accessories not included. The landing mat is not included with the gantry, nor are the apparatus such as fabric, ropes etc.
Documents and certificates for the gantry:
Download the documentation and certificate .
The manufacturer Play has produced a comprehensive, well-illustrated document that allows you to understand the product. It is quite rare to have such a document from manufacturers of this type of equipment, so I recommend that you read it before making your purchase.
Revision and maintenance of the structure
In addition to the normal inspection required before, during and after each use, this product must be inspected by a qualified person every 12 months or 100 hours of use, from the date of purchase. This date and subsequent checks must be recorded on the product tracking sheet: retain this documentation for inspection and reference for the life of the appliance. Check the legibility of the product markings.
If one of the following defects is found, the product must no longer be used:
- cracks on metal parts;
- deformation of a metal part;
- deep corrosion (which does not disappear after light rubbing with sandpaper).
Any product or component that is defective, worn, or in case of doubt, must no longer be used. Each part of the safety system can be damaged during a fall and must always be inspected before reusing it. Do not continue use after a significant fall as damage may have occurred, even if no external signs are visible.
International Shipping Options for the TP700 Gantry
For delivery outside Metropolitan France, additional delivery costs may be added. Our website does not know how to calculate these costs, we invite you to contact us so that we can establish a quote together to deliver this item to you.
If you cancel your order while it is being delivered, you will be charged the actual shipping costs in both directions. These costs have nothing to do with the shipping costs that we charge you on our site when you order this gantry.
Important Safety Instructions for Using the Gantry
Activities involving the use of this equipment are inherently dangerous . The consequences of improper selection of equipment, improper use or poor maintenance of the equipment can result in damage, serious injury or even death .
You are responsible for your actions, decisions and safety. For equipment intended for fall protection systems it is essential for safety that the anchor device or anchor point is always positioned to minimise both the potential for a fall and the distance from the fall.
Check the clearance under the user before each use so that in the event of a fall there is no collision with the ground or obstacles in the fall path.
A full body harness with body support and fall arrest system is the only device that can ensure your safety. Since acrobatics and aerial dance do not usually involve the use of such devices, the installation of a landing mat is essential .
Tripod type gantries such as the TP700, not being anchored to the ground, are designed exclusively for the use of static aerial apparatus with oscillations that must necessarily occur within the perimeter of the base triangle . Oscillations beyond the perimeter of the base can unbalance the structure and must therefore be absolutely avoided as they are potentially dangerous. In addition, oscillations make it impossible to predict the trajectory of the fall and therefore the proper use of the fall mattresses.
If the gantry is to be installed outdoors for long periods of time, exposure to atmospheric agents must be taken into account. Strong winds can cause the structure to collapse. The feet of the gantry have holes through which it is possible to anchor the structure to the ground. The size of the stakes (not included) and the quality of the ground to be anchored must be assessed by competent personnel. In case of bad weather, however, it is always preferable to dismantle the gantry . Under no circumstances should aerial tools be left anchored to the top of the structure without the supervision of competent personnel.
RESPONSIBILITY
PLAY Srl, or the distributor, will not accept any liability for damage, injury or death resulting from improper use or modifications of a PLAY Srl CIRCUS DIVISION product.
It is the user's responsibility to ensure understanding of the correct and safe use of the equipment, to use the product only for the purposes for which it is designed and to implement all appropriate safety procedures.
Before using this equipment you must:
- read and understand all operating instructions;
- train you specifically in the use of this equipment;
- familiarize yourself with your equipment, learn about its performance and limitations;
- understand and accept the risks involved.
You are responsible for your actions, decisions and safety and assume the consequences. If you are unable to assume this responsibility, or if you have not fully understood the operating instructions, do not use this equipment .
Before any purchase, consult the downloadable documentation on this page in order to be aware of all the security implications.
Good morning,
I don't think this question has been asked yet, so I'll ask: what about a permanent outdoor installation? (for personal use, no shows, no need to move it regularly). Isn't there a risk of it rusting over time? Should I use an anti-rust product, for example, once a year? Can we expect it to last at least 10 years? Do you have any specific recommendations for maintaining it? etc. Thanks!
Thank you for your question regarding the permanent outdoor installation of the freestanding aerial gantry. Rust Resistance: The swing set is made of hot-dip galvanized steel, making it extremely rust-resistant. The legs are painted. With use and movement, the paint can become damaged and scratched, so you'll need to consider pampering the legs a little over time. This is just normal maintenance, in fact. Durability: With proper maintenance, the swing set can last more than 10 years outdoors. However, it is essential to regularly check the condition of the structure for corrosion or excessive wear, especially after extreme weather conditions. Recommended Maintenance: It is recommended to inspect the structure every 12 months or after 100 hours of use. Points to check include: - Cracks on metal parts - Deformations of components - Deep corrosion that does not disappear after light rubbing with sandpaper Additional tips: The structure is wind-proof, so there's little risk of it tipping over. However, you should never leave overhead equipment like fabric hanging from the swing set in windy conditions, as they can act like sails and destabilize the structure. If you plan on using it for extended periods, it might be a good idea to add additional safety pins to the base of the swing set. Consider investing in clamps to secure it to the ground. By following these recommendations, you will be able to enjoy your overhead gantry safely and durably. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require any further information. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have and tell you a little about the gantry so you can get the best possible idea of what you are purchasing.
Good morning ,
Can the dismantled structure be easily taken as special luggage in the hold of an airplane?
Is there a way to distribute the different elements so that it fits in terms of weight and size (with several pieces of luggage of course)? I see that the longest elements are 175cm, do you have any feedback on this?
THANKS
Good morning, The structure can be disassembled for air transport as special baggage, although the longest elements measure 175 cm. This requires proper preparation to comply with airline size and weight restrictions. The airline you are traveling with will be best able to answer these questions. However, I'm not sure I see the point of flying this structure in unless you have your own plane :-) The simplest and most practical logistics is to ship the entire pallet with a specialized carrier, knowing that it's a long, oversized pallet. You can ship to the other side of the world in record time on a budget, of course, but it's possible. If you're not in a hurry, most carriers offer this type of service. Perhaps I'm missing a subtlety of your question, in which case please feel free to rephrase it or contact us directly by email or telephone. Sincerely, Matthew SLADE.
Good morning
Having acquired this gantry in my association, two questions arise.
It turns out that the rope attachment (the charm that attaches to the bottom of a foot) displays a maximum load of 100 kg. However, you certify a load of 400 kg. Is this normal? (We have several acrobats on the aerial)
Secondly, would you have any contacts to have this gantry serviced?
THANKS
Thank you for choosing the TP700 Aerial Gantry Crane for your association. We appreciate your questions and are happy to provide any clarification you may have. To ensure the safety of all aerial equipment, it is essential that each association has at least one member who has completed rigging courses and obtained an operator's license. This qualification is crucial for the inspection and maintenance of your equipment, including carabiners, ropes, and more.
1. Load Capacity of the Grigri vs. Gantry
Grigri (Individual Fixing) : Designed to support up to 100kg , which is enough for one user at a time. TP700 Gantry : The entire structure, once correctly assembled, is certified for a Maximum Working Load (WLL) of 400 kg . This capacity allows the simultaneous use of several accessories or users, without exceeding this total limit. When using any aerial apparatus, it is crucial to consider each component used for rigging. For example, aerial silks are certified for a Working Load Limit (WLL) of 100 kg. This precaution applies to all aerial activities and must be strictly observed. Safety Factor: For your safety, all our equipment is designed with a 10:1 safety factor. This means that, although recommended for 100 kg, a device can technically support at least 1000 kg. This high safety margin ensures that you can use our products with complete confidence. Guaranteed Quality: In addition, all the components we supply are manufactured by well-known and reputable brands in the field. You can therefore be assured of the quality and reliability of our equipment. We encourage you to always check that products comply with their specifications before use.2. Review and Maintenance
Inspection Procedure: If none of your crew members hold a rigging license, it's imperative to hire a professional rigger. This specialist must inspect every piece of your aerial equipment at least once a year. This precaution is both routine and necessary, not only for construction operations but also when setting up stages for public performances. Finding a Rigger: Requesting a rigger's contact information is as easy as requesting an electrician's. We recommend researching available riggers in your area to provide these essential services. We recommend regular inspections and servicing by qualified professionals . Here are some suggestions for finding a suitable service: Professional associations : Such as AERISC , specializing in circus arts safety. French Federation of Circus Schools : They can also direct you to qualified professionals for the maintenance and servicing of your gantry. Certified Technicians : Contact local companies that provide services for aerial performance equipment.For More Information
Please feel free to consult the documentation and assembly instructions provided with the gantry. If you have any additional questions, our support team is available to assist you.Hello, I'm very interested in this swing set. But how do you interchange the apparatus? I'd like to switch from silk to trapeze and vice versa, especially for shows... Is this possible, or can you only hang it when the structure is on the ground?
Thank you 😊
Thank you for your interest in our gantry and for your relevant question regarding the interchangeability of the apparatus. Changing Apparatus: The gantry is equipped with a rope and pulley system that greatly facilitates the exchange of apparatus such as aerial silks or aerial hoops. This system allows you to quickly and easily change apparatus, which is ideal for shows where several disciplines follow one another. Using the Trapeze: Regarding the trapeze, it is important to note that to set it up or take it down, the frame structure must be on the ground. However, once the trapeze is set up, you have the option of pulling it to the side of the frame using a rope. This ensures that it does not interfere with the use of other apparatus and maximizes the performance space. We hope this information will help you plan your shows and make the most of our gantry. If you have any further questions or require more details, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Good morning,
My plan is to be able to transport my gantry in a horse-drawn caravan, by bicycle and even by handcart!
The question of weight is therefore a priority for me!
Do you know the weight of all the elements?
THANKS!
Your project of traveling with a gantry in a horse-drawn caravan, by bicycle and even by handcart is truly fascinating! Regarding your question about weight, I can provide you with the following information: The mass of the gantry in its 7-meter version is 140 kg. The mass of the gantry in its 5.60 meter version is 120 kg. If you need more details or have any other questions, please do not hesitate to ask.
Hello, once it is assembled for staging purposes, can it be quickly assembled to make a mast and then placed on the ground?
THANKS
Thank you very much for your inquiry regarding the possibility of converting the tripod-style gantry into a single mast for easy folding and rapid deployment. We understand your interest in quick setup and storage during a show. Unfortunately, I must inform you that this technique is not possible due to the design of the gantry. Two of the legs are fixed, which prevents the possibility of bringing them all together in the center to form a single mast. While technically it would be possible to remove a fastener to allow the legs to be moved as you suggest, this action would present a significant safety risk. With so much weight distributed over a height of 7 meters, the risk of tipping would be excessively high. And there would also be a risk of uncontrolled reactivity of the Apex plate at the top of the gantry. The gantry was not designed to be used in this manner, and the safety of your audience and the artists working with you must be your top priority. However, we understand your desire for a quick installation. One tip we could suggest is to have your technician(s) attach a screwdriver directly to the winch. This method will speed up installation while still respecting the necessary safety precautions. It's important to note that even with this tip, it won't be possible to bypass all the usual installation steps. We hope you find this solution helpful and remain at your disposal for any further questions or clarifications you may require. Your safety and that of your users is our priority, and we thank you for your understanding.
Good morning,
I am considering purchasing this gantry for use with a hoop, so with prolonged rotation moments and small jolts (e.g. controlled falls). The rotation would only be on the angle of the hoop's attachment point (so in the triangle area it seems to me) so I think it is safe but can you confirm that it is possible? Because using the hoop only statically is limited.
The resistance of the structure being 400kg it seems a little limited to me because I weigh 50 to 55kg+ weight of the hoop and in rotation is it enough? I saw you talk about up to a resistance of one ton for articles related to the hoop...
Thank you
This gantry is designed for use with an aerial hoop, including dynamic movements such as rotations and controlled falls. The structure has a working load limit (WLL/CMU) of 400 kg, which is sufficient for your combined weight and that of the hoop, even taking into account dynamic forces. The calculations are given and carried out with a factor of 7. However, it is important to note that any dynamic use must take place within the perimeter of the triangle formed by the gantry to ensure stability and safety.
Hello! Is it necessary to have aviation safety training to use this type of gantry?
In France, in a professional environment, it is necessary to have training in working at height to change a light bulb from the moment you have to climb onto a chair to change it. This gantry can be set up with a winch system from the ground. Therefore, for its installation, there is no need for training in working at height. However, to install the apparatus, it is necessary to be trained, as is the case for all apparatus installation in circus schools. In circus schools in France, aerial instructors often do not have training in installing equipment at height, so they are forced to call on school technicians to set up their equipment.
Good morning
Is the gantry in stock? If so, how much does it cost to ship?
THANKS
If you have any questions about the availability of this item, please contact us directly. This question area is for questions about the material, not its availability. 🎪
Good morning,
What is the diameter of the static rope? 6 or 10 mm?
THANKS
The gantry is supplied with 10mm static rope.
Good morning,
I would like to purchase a circus swing set, but my land is sloping (about 10°). Is there a solution for this configuration with your swing set?
Thanks in advance
The gantry crane can be used on uneven ground. As long as you do not move out of the boom, you can install the gantry crane on uneven ground.
Hello, does the blue box only contain the parts or are the legs also stored in it? How long are the manufacturing times estimated?
Only the poles are not stored in the blue crate. The bases are therefore in the blue crate. For any questions regarding delivery times, please contact us directly by email or phone. Our contact information can be found at the top of the site.
Good morning,
Can you climb a pole alone? Can two people each climb a pole at the same time to reach an aerial hoop, for example?
Can we sit on the platform at the top?
The structure was not designed for this use. Although it is possible for a person to climb a pole, it should not be done. The risk is that if you do so repeatedly, the tubular structure will buckle. A buckled tube would render the structure unusable.
I want to install an aerial rope on my swing set. With a 7m swing set, what length of rope should I use?
An aerial rope should generally be one meter longer than the height of your anchor point. Also, on a 7-meter-high gantry, you will need an 8-meter-long rope. You can find the ropes here on our website .
If the gantry remains outside near houses, are there any dangers with storms, lightning, etc.?
The gantry is not a wind-resistant structure, so in the event of a storm, there is little risk of the structure tipping over, provided there are no rigging attached to the gantry. As I write this message, there is only one accident related to a storm situation that has been reported to us. The gantry had an aerial fabric that had remained attached. The aerial fabric, with the wind, transformed into a sail and overturned the gantry. Fortunately, the accident occurred at night in an isolated field. You should never leave an aerial fabric attached to a gantry in case of strong winds. When using your gantry outdoors, as soon as you are not using an apparatus, it is absolutely necessary to dismantle it and not leave it in place on your gantry.
Storm Safety
To increase the safety of your gantry in the event of a storm or strong wind, there are a few things you can do.
There is a round hole on each leg of the gantry. You can insert a clamp into each hole and your gantry will be fixed to the ground.
On the connections on the lower posts, if you wish you can replace the spring buttons with 10mm diameter bolts (not supplied with the gantry).
Weather monitoring is essential when you have a swing set up outdoors and it is advisable to dismantle it if strong winds are forecast.
Lightning strikes your overhead gantry
If your swing set is surrounded by taller buildings or trees, it is less likely to be hit. In an open area, the gantry could be more exposed. On average, the probability of lightning striking a specific object, such as your gantry, is relatively low. However, this risk is not zero. It is a random phenomenon, influenced by several factors (weather, topography, etc.). In summary, although the height of your gantry could theoretically attract lightning, the probability remains low. A little common sense, and I urge you not to practice during a thunderstorm. Avoid having people near the gantry during thunderstorms.Great, thanks :)
Can we assemble the structure alone? How long does it take? The same goes for disassembly.
It is entirely possible to assemble the structure alone. The entire concept of this gantry is based on the fact that it can be easily assembled alone. For the first assembly, I recommend two people, at least until you get familiar with the procedure. I invite you to watch the video in the product description. With a little practice, it is possible to assemble the structure alone in less than half an hour, and disassembly is a little faster. Don't expect to set a speed record on the first assemblies. But once you have a little experience, we will be curious to know your assembly time record.
I've had this swing set for a very long time and it's almost impossible to put it together alone without it becoming unbalanced and tipping over! 😅 especially if you're not very tall
Thank you for your feedback and your question about the TP700 gantry assembly. Your comment is relevant and reflects some of the difficulties that can be encountered during initial assemblies, especially when you are alone or without much experience. Some tips for successful editing: Ask for help at the beginning: When you're first assembling, it's highly recommended to have someone with you to help you get familiar with the steps. Once you've gained some experience, it will be much easier to assemble it alone. Check the ground alignment: The key to a stable setup is proper alignment from the start. Make sure the base of the legs is properly positioned and aligned. A good indicator is the winch rope: it should come out straight, without rubbing against the sides. If the rope deflects, the alignment is not optimal. Take your time: The first few times, it's normal to find the assembly a bit long and to encounter some imbalances. With practice, these steps will become smoother and faster. In case of imbalance: If the gantry is tilting or seems unstable, check the adjustments at each post and their connection to the anchor plate. Sometimes, slight adjustments are enough to resolve the problem. I understand this may seem daunting at first, but once you get the hang of the steps and how to adjust the alignment, assembly becomes much easier. Please feel free to contact us directly via email or phone if you need any further advice or encounter any specific challenges. Good luck with your gantry, and thank you for your trust!
Hello! I was wondering how much space the gantry takes up when it's not yet assembled, it looks quite large 😬
THANKS!
The structure takes up very little space when stored. It fits entirely on a long pallet. What takes up the most space are the tubes, which are 175cm long sections. There are 15 in total. The heaviest element of the structure weighs 10 kg. All the accessories supplied with the structure fit in a crate that measures 60x40x40.
Hello, on some structures that I have that I have seen on other sites it is often specified that it is not recommended to do drops (I think there is no equivalent in French for this term).
Practicing aerial silks, not doing drops seems inconceivable to me.
Is your structure resistant to drops?
The gantry is designed with a WLL (Working Load Limit) or CMU (Maximum Working Load): 400 daN (approx. 400 Kg) with a coefficient of 7.
Can the structure be left outside for several days? Not left outside all winter, but is it possible during the nice weather? Or do we have to take it down every time at the end of each session?
Thank you in advance for your response.
The entire structure is 100% stainless steel. All tube sections are galvanized and the other parts are powder coated (as on our aerial hoops). If you plan to leave it outside, for the feet we advise you to buy 3 x Steel hinges . The lower part of the gantry is supplied without a fixing system, so this accessory will allow you to secure the bottom of the gantry 100% in bad weather if you have to leave it mounted outside all the time, that seems important to me. In case of strong winds, however, it is important not to leave any aerial fabric attached to the gantry because if it swells with the wind it will have a sail effect.
Thank you for this clear answer. I feel reassured and really want to order.... ;-)
An aerial gantry crane represents a significant investment. If you have any further questions, we'd be happy to answer them over the phone. We're easily reachable during the week; our number is always at the top of the website :-).
What are the CMU and CMR?
The maximum working load (WLL) is given as 400daN (approx. 400Kg). There is no WLL for this type of structure (the same goes for a marquee and other similar structures). If you would like information on all the tests carried out by the firm on the structure, do not hesitate to contact us by phone. Our contact details are always highlighted at the top of the site.