CMF 500KG Lodestar

The CM Lodestar 500kg combines power with outstanding durability. This chain hoist is widely appreciated for its ease of use, reliable performance and long service life in rigging and entertainment applications.

Key advantages:

• Powerful electric motor
• Overload protection
• Service-friendly construction
• Available in multiple chain lengths
• Suitable for intensive and repetitive use

The Lodestar has a self-weight of 32 kg and a lifting capacity of 500 kg. This model is available with 10, 20 or 23-metre chain lengths.

Power and reliability for rigging applications

The CM Lodestar 500kg is known as a dependable workhorse in rigging and entertainment production. Thanks to its robust construction, overload protection and service-friendly design, this model is well suited for intensive and repetitive use in festivals, touring, theatre and television studios.

With a lifting capacity of 500 kg, low maintenance requirements and a long operational lifespan, the Lodestar is a popular choice in professional environments where safe lifting and predictable performance are essential.

The hoist is available in multiple chain lengths and is fully compatible with controllers and cabling within the same system.

Why choose the CM Lodestar 500kg?

The CM Lodestar 500kg is widely used in professional rigging and entertainment environments. This chain hoist combines reliability and ease of use with low maintenance requirements and built-in overload protection. Thanks to its service-friendly design and consistent lifting speed, the Lodestar is frequently deployed in festivals, touring, broadcast, theatre and trade shows.

This model is suitable for safely lifting truss, audio line arrays, lighting and other technical equipment during both load-in and operation. The CM Lodestar 500kg offers a working load limit of 500 kg and is available in multiple chain lengths, including 10m, 20m and 23m.

Chain hoist applications in professional rigging

Which configuration you need depends on the venue, lifting height, truss layout and overall system configuration. The CM Lodestar 500kg is widely used in professional rigging and entertainment environments, where safe lifting and controlled movement are essential.

Chain hoists are typically deployed in:

• Festivals & concerts
• Touring & live shows
• Broadcast & television studios
• Theatre productions
• Trade shows & temporary installations
• Indoor & outdoor rigging

Due to its versatile performance, a single hoist can be used for both permanent installations and temporary productions where speed and efficiency during load-in and load-out are critical.

Capacity & configuration in practice

When selecting a CM Lodestar 500kg chain hoist, several parameters come into play, including lifting height, chain length, system configuration, number of hoists and the type of load (truss, line array, lighting or AV equipment). Higher trim heights require longer chain lengths, while ground support systems typically benefit from shorter lengths. The 500kg version is often chosen when a 250kg Prostar does not provide enough capacity, and a 1000kg Lodestar would be oversized for the application.

Rigging Box can assist with quantities, configuration and required accessories based on a sketch, venue description or technical rigging plan.

Combining with rigging equipment

In practice, the CM Lodestar 500kg is often combined with additional rigging equipment to build complete structures or to lift line arrays, truss or lighting safely and efficiently.

Common combinations include:

• Hoist control (single or multi-channel)
• Motor wiring for Lodestar systems
• Truss and ground support systems
• Baseplates

These combinations support both load-in and load-out workflows, and enable controlled lifting in complex production environments such as festivals, theatre, touring and broadcast.

Renting the CM Lodestar 500kg from Rigging Box

Looking to rent this chain hoist for an event or production? The CM Lodestar 500kg can be added directly to your rental request and is available in several chain lengths. Matching hoist control and motor cabling can be supplied within the same system.

Rigging Box can advise on quantities, configuration and required rigging equipment. A simple sketch, venue description or technical plan is often sufficient for us to determine the correct setup. Our specialists can support you in selecting the appropriate configuration for your application.

Frequently Asked Questions about CM Lodestar 500kg (FAQ)

Is the CM Lodestar 500kg classified as a D8, D8+ or C1 hoist?

The CM Lodestar 500kg is generally supplied as a D8 hoist. Whether a Lodestar is considered D8, D8+ or C1 depends on the configuration and application. D8 hoists are used for lifting without loads above people, while D8+ and C1 classifications apply to scenarios where loads are positioned over audiences or personnel. The final classification depends on the system setup, accessories and the technical assessment of the production.

Which hoist controller is compatible with the CM Lodestar 500kg?

The CM Lodestar 500kg can operate with a range of hoist controllers. Single hoists can be controlled with basic units, while multiple hoists typically require multi-channel control for synchronized movement. The choice depends on the number of hoists, the level of synchronization required and the production’s technical plan.

How do you determine the correct chain length for a production?

Chain length is calculated based on trim height, venue layout and system configuration. Large productions take into account roof points, ground support systems and the height of equipment such as line arrays or truss. Rigging Box can advise on suitable chain lengths based on drawings or rigging plans.

How are CM Lodestars inspected and certified?

CM Lodestars are periodically inspected and certified according to applicable safety and rigging standards. During inspection, hoists are checked for wear, brake performance, chain condition and electrical functions. After inspection, the hoist receives updated certification to demonstrate that it can safely be used in entertainment and live production environments. More information can be found on our inspection & certification page.

Can Rigging Box advise on quantities and configuration?

Yes, Rigging Box can advise on required quantities and configurations. Based on a sketch, venue description or technical rigging plan, we can determine which hoists, chain lengths and control solutions are needed and how they should be deployed for the production.