Since its inception, AstroTurf has dominated the niche conversion market within the synthetic turf industry.
AstroTurf introduced the world to synthetic sports turf in the 1960s, thereby changing athletic competition forever. It went on to invent conversion systems (Magic Carpet, AstroHopper, and AstroLift) that have fundamentally altered stadium operations, affording arenas previously unknown flexibility and revenue opportunities. In fact, AstroTurf conversion systems have been in use since the installation of AstroTurf at the Houston AstroDome in 1966. This system was the forerunner of the AstroHopper type system.
AstroTurf installed convertible systems at virtually all of the high profile venues through the 70s, 80s, and 90s. The advent of third-generation (tall-pile, rubber-filled) systems in the late 1990s accelerated the turf industry. The softer feel of the polyethylene blades and cushioned support of the infill were favored by athletes.
However, these systems posed a unique challenge to stadia wishing to host multiple events and sports. Problems arose with containing the infill, and machinery did not have sufficient power to lift the turf containing the 20,000 recycled tires used in the new systems.
Living up to its historical commitment to these facilities, AstroTurf rose to the challenge. In 2008, we designed and installed a Magic Carpet system for the University of Northern Michigan that could successfully roll up tall pile turf without infill. In 2010, the current Magic Carpet II (MCII) system was installed at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, Missouri, home of the NFL’s St. Louis Rams. The product is the latest and greatest in turf technology — the 3D product with rubber infill.
The AstroHopper system was simultaneously improved upon, and it too was redesigned to handle heavy, infilled turf. This system was selected as the conversion system of choice for the Rogers Centre and Toronto Blue Jays in 2010 and again in 2015. The AstroHopper II is also used by the Dakota Dome (2012) and Reliant Stadium (2012).
Conversion Turf, Magic Carpet System
Magic Carpet II
The MCII system rolls up an entire field in one monolithic piece. The field is lifted from the floor using a system of pneumatic blowers to reduce friction. It is rolled onto a single core, which can be floor mounted or fully/ partially recessed into the stadium floor.
Pros:
- Quickest conversion time of all convertible systems
- Monolithic piece means fewer seams
- Most highly engineered field conversion system on the market
Cons:
- Highest initial investment
- Requires extensive engineering and pre-construction planning to accommodate weight of rolls
- Facilities may be retro-fitted but must be able to handle weight of the system/ roll
DETAILS
| Products Used | RootZone 3D Series (must contain nylon RootZone in order to reduce infill spillage when rolled) |
AstroHopper II System
A panel conversion system that rolls and unrolls turf field in 15’ wide panels with AstroTurf-exclusive machinery.
Pros:
- Smaller upfront investment than MCII system
- Weight capacity of floor less important than MCII system
- Machinery is proven and designed specifically for turf conversions
Cons:
- Slower, more labor intensive conversion system than MCII
- Many seams to secure
- Must have dedicated storage space/racks
DETAILS
| Products Used | RootZone 3D Series (must contain nylon RootZone in order to reduce infill spillage when rolled) |
AstroLift System
A panel conversion system that rolls and unrolls turf field in 15’ wide panels with a special forklift attachment connected to an owner-supplied forklift.
Pros:
- Smaller upfront investment than MCII or AstroHopper system (but must supply a forklift)
- Weight capacity of floor less important than MCII system
Cons:
- Slower, more labor intensive conversion system than MCII
- Many seams to secure
- Must have dedicated storage space/racks
DETAILS
| Products Used | RootZone 3D Series (must contain nylon RootZone in order to reduce infill spillage when rolled) |
AstroMod
Modular panel system with an attached expanded polypropylene pad. 28.8 square foot panels fit together and are secured using factory installed hook and loop edges integrated as part of the panel.
Pros:
- Smallest upfront investment of any conversion system
- Very lightweight system with little expertise required (can be installed by students)
- No special equipment required
- No infill, no mess
- Attached pad for guaranteed shock absorption
- Stackable panels require smaller storage space
Cons:
- Slower conversion time than machinery-driven systems
DETAILS
| Products Used | Specific, attached turf system without infill. |
