WHAT IS A PORTAL BEAM?

A portal beam is a steel support system that offers an alternative to the commonly used ‘scissor’ or cross brace system.

WHEN IS A PORTAL BEAM USED?
A portal beam would be used whenever you cannot or should not use the scissor brace.  The typical occasion when you cannot use the scissor is when the customer would like to use the section to be opened up and used as an entrance or exit.

It could be that the marquee may need an emergency exit in the location where there is a set of scissors in place.  If this is the case and portal beam is an ideal substitute to the scissor.

WHY SPOIL A GOOD VIEW?  
The most common reason to fit a portal beam is so as not to detract from the view.  However small the profile of the scissor, having an ‘X’ shaped piece of metal obscuring the view isn’t something that your customer will appreciate and this problem can be eliminated with the use of a portal beam.

Here at Shield, we have two portal beams available. We have a portal beam for the 3m, 6m, 9m structures (profile 94mm x 48mm) and we have also developed a unique ‘Universal’ portal beam that fits both the 94mm x 48mm and the 114mm x 80mm structure.

HOW TO FIT A PORTAL BEAM?

A portal beam will usually be fitted at the same time as the marquee frame is being built.  We would usually recommend fitting the scissor brace first to help stabilize the structure.  Once the scissors have been fitted and the marquee is structurally safe, fitting the portal beam will be a much similar and safer process.  Remember, when going back to de-rig, take a spare set of scissor with you as it will make the process easier.

Before building the structure, it may be helpful to have changed your locking nuts for standard hex nuts in the sections where your portal beam is to be fitted.

We would recommend having a minimum of 2 - 4 persons when fitting the portal beam.  Having the portal beam close by ready to lift into position is alway recommended.

Undo the eave knuckle bolts and slide the bolt back so they are flush to the leg.  Undo the top scissor scissor bolt and lower the scissor to the ground.  Remember to keep your marquee steady and keep supporting it whilst the transition from scissor to portal beam.  Together, lift the portal beam into position and push the eave knuckle bolts into through the portal beam bolt holes, thus securing the top of the portal beam to the marquee leg.  Rotate the portal beam down and insert the remaining bolts, add the nut/locking nut and ensure the nuts are tight.