Superstrut / Unistrut trolley on ceiling help...

[Aquamoose]

I'm wracking my brains on how I can mount tracks up to the ceilings. I plan to use a double track to move along only one axis using my 880 lb capacity electric hoist but what's the best way to mount a double-struts (one-piece back to back U channels) to the ceiling? I was planning to use short sections of Unistruts at 90 degree to the track, fasten it directly to my flat ceiling (right under the joist) and put the double-struts on it but how do I attach it properly? L brackets or cross brackets?

To give you a good idea, look at member "thewhite" using his double track system for his trolley.

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=126997&page=60

Sean

 

[Fueler]

I have a similar set up in my machine shop. 24 x 12 set up in a Pole Barn.
The channels and wheels, etc I got from McMaster for convenience rather than price. Comes by truck so shipping can be a bit stiff.
The lengths are mated together with a coupler piece. Might have to hunt for that.
After I had everything lined up (which is numbing) and working I welded the channels and that coupler all together.

For hanging I made some J shaped brackets out of angle iron. These were welded to the side of the channel. The J part hangs over the rafter beam. I then drilled through and bolted them to the beam. Drilled a hole in the end of the channel and slipped a bolt through as a stop.

I will see if I can get a picture of the J hanger tomorrow.

Oh, get the tall version of that channel. Mucho stiffer/stronger.

 

[May Pop]

Check a local electrical supply house for the double strut. Its available in 20 foot lengths and most deliver for free if you pay ahead in cash. This will be cheaper than McMaster Carr.

 

[Aceman]

I can tell you that I use strut daily. Back-back 3 1/4" deep welded strut is more expensive than two pieces of 1 5/8" strut bolted together. I've only ever seen regular 1 5/8" strut come in 20' sticks, I've special ordered it in a few times rather than coupling two pieces together end-end.

As far as brackets take a look through this catalog:

http://www.cooperindustries.com/con...ogs/bolted_framing/strut_systems/Fittings.pdf

A B107-22A looks like it might work well to hold the ends, but you would have to come up with different intermediate supports that the trolley wouldn't run into though.

 

[May Pop]

Double also comes in 20 footers!

 

[Aquamoose]

Thanks, I've got some pieces coming in and will go to town for the tracks this Sat.