A very important factor to take into account when installing the track system is alignment and accuracy. For the track system to run smoothly, it must be installed horizontally for the ceiling lift to traverse with ease, along with a straight line fixing to allow two tracks to successfully link between each other and allow a transition for the ceiling lift to pass between tracks. It is a critical part of ceiling track installation to allow the system to function.  

4.1.1 Marking out Bracket Positions for a Straight Track Installation into Steelwork 

1. Along the full length of the track installation, any obstacles must be avoided, this includes obstacles such as light fixings, sprinklers, etc.  

2. Where false ceilings are present, remove the tiles to inspect the roof space for any obstacles as well as inspect the concrete for suitable fixing points. 

3. Determine a suitable location for the first fixing, and thereby calculate how many more fixings are required and their distance apart, this will depend on the same working load of the installed ceiling lift,  the track type, and the distance the track will cover. 

4. Mark the first track bracket position on the (false) ceiling, from here a laser can be placed on the floor directly in line with the first position, and it will draw a perfectly straight line along the ceiling to represent the track positions. 

5. Use a tape measure to measure the distance between each fixing. (this distance should have been  calculated in step 3) 

6. Mark on the ceiling the second fixing position, this will be in line with the laser and the measured distance on the tape measure. 

7. Repeat this process to mark out all fixings. 

8. Using a 12.5mm drill bit, drill the holes into the false ceiling. 

9. From here, measure directly vertically, using a laser to mark out on the ceiling where the track brackets will align.  

10. Track bracket positions can be aligned either between or directly below a steel beam. 

11. Mark the bracket position onto the beam or ceiling. 

4.1.2 Marking out Bracket Positions for a Track Bend Installation into Steelwork 

1. Ensure that where the track bend is intended to be fitted is clear of any obstacles, this includes light fixings, sprinklers, etc. 

2. Where false ceilings are present, remove the tiles to inspect the roof space for any obstacles as well as inspect the concrete for suitable fixing points. 

3. Ensure that the track is cut to the desired length before marking out any fixing points.

4. Depending on the type of track bend, a certain amount of fixings is required. See section 1 for track bends information. 

5. Track bends should be fitted after a straight track is installed, therefore ensure the straight track in already fitted to assist in track bends positioning. 

6. Align the track bend on the (false) ceiling, up against the straight track system, where the bend is desired to be. 

7. Draw the outline of the track onto the ceiling with a marker/pencil. Mark out the fixing points from the profile as described in section 1.

8. Using a 12.5mm drill bit, drill the holes into the false ceiling. 

9. From here, measure directly vertically, using a laser to mark out on the ceiling where the track brackets will align. 

10. Track bracket positions can be aligned either between or directly below a steel beam. 

11. Mark the bracket position onto the beam or ceiling.