The brake is connected to the drum, and operates independently of any electrical or drive-train system. Says Slingco, "In the event of all other elements in the drive-train system failing (including the gearbox), with the Vortek back-up brake, everything stops within 3mm. The mechanical Vortek back-up brake also remains fully functional in the event of a power failure."
Vortek also features overload and underload protection. At the heart of the set-up is the VAC (Vortek Automated Controls) centre which offers intuitive touch screen control and menuing to make the system simple to administer and use, with three levels of password access. A wireless remote option allows the system to be operated from various locations around the venue, and a pendant option is also available.
The Vortek VAC can operate multiple battens together, and can control up to 250 Vortek units as a rigging system.
(Jim Evans)
