A Guide to Festoon Systems

When conducting construction projects, it is important that managers and workers take precautions as much as possible. Careless mishaps or a single misstep can lead to drastic consequences. Thankfully, a large number of systems and measures have been devised to protect workers. One such system, used commonly in mobile equipment, is called festoon systems.

Festoon systems are a method of managing power and control cables in mobile equipment. By providing electricity to equipment, festoon systems provide a reliable yet manageable method towards enabling mobility. These systems allow a cable to move mobile equipment with relatively safety, such as trolleys and cable cars. In addition to the transmission of power through mobile cables, festoon systems can also be used for material handling applications, such as waste treatment machines and refuse cranes.

Types of Festoon Systems

The type of festoon system will depend on a number of conditions and factors. When choosing a festoon system, keep in mind the project requisites, as runway, monorail or trolley system will all requires different types of needs. Additional important factors include the environment where the festoon system will be placed. The details of a festoon system will depend on whether the atmosphere experiences rain, dusty, or dry conditions. Finally, determine whether the voltage, length of system, and number of conductors fits the magnitude of the project.

Many manufacturers offer the ability to create customized festoon systems, according to the customer’s needs. However, there are several standard models, which are compatible with a variety of mobile equipment. The following are examples of common types of festoon systems used:

Stretched Festoon System:
The stretched festoon system is best for light applications, and capable of providing power to equipment with relatively light loads. Many construction managers and engineers prefer these systems, given their affordability and quick installation.

C-Track Festoon System:
The C-track festoon system is one of the most common systems used. This type of festoon system is well suited for cranes and hoists, and is available in a number of configurations. Given their flexibility, C-track festoon systems are well suited for both indoor and outdoor applications.

Square Bar Festoon System:
The main distinguishing factor of the square bar festoon system is the unique, steel body design. Preferred for more heavy-duty applications, these festoon systems are commonly used to support cables and trolleys.

I-Beam Festoon System:
This type of festoon system is commonly used for slow speed operations, and is capable of supporting heavier loads. Therefore, I-Beam festoon systems are suitable for heavy-duty or customized projects.