The main purpose of the cable channels is to protect the wiring from mechanical damage, to protect against fire in the event of a power outage. At first glance, the definition of the required type of cable support systems should not cause difficulties. But when choosing, you can get lost from the widest assortment. Do you agree?
We will tell you how to choose the right cable channel for wiring, taking into account the complexity of the wiring diagram and operating conditions. In the article we presented, the most popular varieties are described in detail, their technical characteristics are given. Using our tips, you will not be mistaken in finding the best option.
How to choose a cable channel for wiring?
Even an insignificant, at first glance, characteristic of the electrical installation box may turn out to be a key factor in choosing the necessary option.
So, what properties can be considered when buying a product:
- Material. Pay attention to safety, durability, level of protection in case of possible fire.
- Type of construction. Cable channels for wiring can be produced in the form of smooth or corrugated pipes, tracks, trays, etc.
- Application specifics. The characteristics of the systems used for industrial premises, private houses or equipment can vary significantly.
For example, more stringent requirements are imposed on the fire safety of the cable box used for wiring in wooden houses, and static wiring will not work for wiring used in movable mechanisms.
In addition, pay attention to color. This factor is relevant in the case of arranging open wiring, in which the elements of the cable channel are visible and must meet aesthetic requirements.
Cable channels are available in various colors. The most popular colors are white, steel, gray, black, natural wood.
Materials for cable systems
All materials used in the manufacture of electrical boxes meet the basic requirements for safety, strength and aesthetics. But differences still exist, and they have different effects on the quality and operational properties of cable channels, their cost.
Plastic Electrical Boxes
Plastic products are designed for laying open type electric lines, both low-current and power. Can be used for wiring in residential, office, industrial buildings, administrative institutions.
They are made from PVC-based compositions with special additives that provide products with plasticity, resistance to various negative factors - the effects of aggressive chemicals and ultraviolet radiation.
PVC products can be used in the temperature range from -32 ° C to +90 ° C and mounted at temperatures from -15 ° C to +60 ° C.
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Wiring device in plastic channels
Compatibility of main parts and fittings
Entering a trunk line to control multiple devices
Plug-in socket
Front panel snap
Mounting the outlet in a multi-level box
Connecting electrical wiring to wiring devices
Making a junction of a plastic box
Electro-boxes made of plastic are not subject to corrosion, are easily mounted and have a simple fastening system. They are in a low price category, due to this they deserve the greatest popularity. The shape can be rectangular (found most often), triangular, flat, with a circular cross section.
Cable ducts should have a glossy surface so that they can be easily cleaned of dust, and white products should not turn yellow under the influence of ultraviolet light
The material from which the cable channel is made is self-extinguishing. In the event of a short circuit using an electrical box, it is possible to minimize the risk of fire.
Products from aluminum and galvanized steel
Aluminum cable systems serve as protection against electromagnetic interference. Used for open wiring in premises for various purposes - in medical institutions, industrial enterprises, in offices.
An assortment of aluminum cable ducts makes installation much easier, and the integrated splitter protects against electromagnetic interference.
They are made from anodized aluminum. The material helps to ensure the stable operation of telecommunication systems - it prevents interference, protecting against electromagnetic interference.
In addition, it is resistant to ultraviolet radiation, high temperatures. Accessories for aluminum boxes are made of painted ABS plastic or polycarbonate.
Aluminum products have a strength of up to 20 J and a long service life. This is an especially important quality for floor and industrial electrical boxes.
Metal boxes are made of cold rolled steel, hot-dip galvanized, which protects the metal from corrosion for up to 10 years
The wiring device with the laying of lines in aluminum cable channels is made in the following order:
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On a pre-designed electrical wiring route, we install straight lines. We mount them to turning angles very simply: In the lower part of the channel we drill a hole through which we then fasten it to the wall
The first to lay horizontal lines, the length of which should take into account the plant box in the rotary part. Then we put the base from the corner, in the example we consider a flat angle
In the base of the flat angle fixed on the wall, we start the vertical part of the box. Mark in fact the points of attachment, then fix
After fixing the vertical boxes, for fixing which we also first drill holes, we click on the base of the decorative-protective pad
If several cables or individual wires are laid inside the box, fix them with terminals to the guides
Using a wire we connect the channel cover to its base
In fixing the covers to the base, we also use terminals. We attach one to the hinge on the cover, the second to the guide located on the base
Slightly driving the covers under the corner pad, we snap the covers the cable channel on the vertical and horizontal parts of the base
Step 1: Installing straight lines on the wall
Step 2: Install the corner base in the box
Step 3: Install the Vertical Boxes
Step 4: Latching the corner pad
Step 5: Attaching the wires to the rails
Step 6: Connect the cover to one of the wires
Step 7: Attaching a Second Cover to the Vertical Box
Step 8: Install Cable Channel Covers
In order to avoid problems during the construction of the cable channel channel, all parts should be bought with one logo. Products from different manufacturers may have millimeter deviations. However, because of them, the assembled system may look messy and will not provide sufficient protection from external influences.
Types of cable channels: classification
It is customary to classify various types of cable channels intended for laying wiring precisely on the basis of structural features. They, in turn, depend on the place and operating conditions.
For electrical installations, consisting of different types of cables and a large number of wiring equipment, multi-section designs are used (+)
Trunk electrical channels
To protect the electricity network during the construction and reconstruction of buildings for various purposes, trunk cable channels are used. They differ in a large assortment of sizes and can be used as wiring lines.
In the latter case, they are complemented by a wide range of overhead wiring products from different manufacturers. Typical sizes allow you to carry out projects of any complexity.
The trunk or parapet cable channel is installed directly on the wall using screws, double-sided tape, adhesive solution
The complete set of the system includes boxes 2 meters long and various accessories that serve to connect channels on straight planes, at external and internal corners, for T-shaped joints.
Cable duct systems that are planned to be used as wiring are supplemented by junction boxes, support frames for installing sockets, switches, etc.
There are also mini cable channels that are used when wiring telephone or power lines, information cables. The capacity of such a box is designed for one or two wires
Skirting and floor cable ducts
Floor cable ducts are used in rooms with a large area, as well as where wiring passes under the floor. They help in organizing a functional workplace.
Floor constructions have a streamlined shape and are characterized by high compressive strength. To connect wiring products, columns, turret modules are used, which can be expanded, installed one on top of the other.
For a tight fit to the floor and additional protection for wiring, floor cable channels can be equipped with rubber seals. At the joints of two boxes use protective pads
Floor structures are subject to special strength requirements. The manufacturer achieves increased resistance to mechanical stress through the use of more durable materials, such as aluminum.
The design of plastic products is strengthened with the help of partitions, which simultaneously serve as forced dividers for different types of wiring.
Corner connecting elements facilitate and improve the installation of cable channels, and forced distributors provide high-quality laying of information communications
Skirting channels are used as skirting boards and are mounted around the entire perimeter of the room. To branch off the floor or wall channel from the baseboard, special adapters are used that can simultaneously serve as a junction box.
Accessories and additional features
For ease of installation and to improve the appearance, manufacturers are constantly working on improving cable channels. Sockets and switches can be installed above the boxes or in the box itself.
Multimodular boxes and caliper frames allow you to install several wiring accessories side by side. Built-in dividers in boxes and accessories prevent cable breaks in corners, and create two independent channels - for power and telecommunication wiring.
Some models of electrical boxes have a double lock, with the help of which the lid and box are more tightly connected. This allows you to mount on the ceiling, as well as more densely lay the cable inside the channel, place a corrugated pipe next to it.
In a box with a tight lid, up to 100% of the usable area is used, while systems with a single lock can be filled up to no more than 70%. Variable external and internal angular connectors make it possible to change the degree of the angle, they are available for all sizes of boxes.
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Step 1: Assembling the base for the outer corner
Step 2: Installing the delimited database
Step 3: Assembling the base and attaching the covers
Step 4: Clicking on the decorative parts
Step 5: Attaching the corner base dividers
Step 6: Assembling the line with an internal angle
Step 7: Attaching Cable Channel Covers
Step 8: Latching the inner corner trim
To hide the gap between the duct and the wall and prevent dust accumulation in the duct itself, a soft seal is used, which the manufacturer fastens on the base of the duct and accessories.
It is much easier to mount the wiring if there is a holder that is installed on the partition or on the side of the box. The frame for cable ducts can be suitable for boxes with a cover width of 75 mm and for a cover 60 mm wide
Perforated plastic box
The purpose of the perforated duct is to be installed in power distribution cabinets. It is well ventilated, has a small weight, allows you to carry out a neat and aesthetic wiring. Inexpensive design is often used where the appearance of the product does not play a role.
The channels have teeth that can be removed in the right place if necessary, for example, when you insert the wire into a branch, socket or switch. The perforation pitch is designed to match the pitch of the contact clamps of modular equipment.
Holes on the base of the perforated duct speeds up installation and increases installation quality. The teeth can be easily removed if necessary.
Flexible cable systems
Flexible cable channels can be produced in the form of chains - multi-sectional structures that bend in one plane along the entire length. The individual elements of the truck are interconnected by an articulated hitch. They are made of aluminum, plastic, nylon, steel and can vary in height, length and pitch.
Tracks serve to prevent mechanical damage to power, signal cables, their getting into moving parts of mechanisms. They also protect against dust and dirt, serve to lay wiring and cable to the required distance.
Cable channels are used for automated mechanisms, CNC machines, for connecting electrical devices installed on the doors of switchboards
Cable tracks can be open or closed. Closed cable channels for electrical wiring are used if it is necessary to provide high-quality protection against dust and foreign objects getting into the channel. Open energy chains are installed in cases where it is necessary to give preference to the ease and ease of installation.
One of the flexible systems is also a cable channel with the function of three-dimensional circular rotation. Such channels are used to create robots and robotic mechanisms. Their design consists of individual elements, each of which, if the need arises, can be added or removed.
Protect the electrical wire inside such flexible cable channels with cable ties. The electrical channel itself is protected from tension by means of mounting brackets
Pipes for wiring
For laying the electric wire, both ordinary PVC pipes and products created specifically for power networks are used. When choosing a rigid or flexible pipe, take into account where the cable will be laid, its operating conditions, the need for protection from ultraviolet rays, aesthetic preferences.
Smooth PVC pipes
PVC pipes are used for the installation of open type wiring indoors or outdoors. They protect the wiring from damage, contact with moisture, and are used to increase fire safety. With the help of pipes used as cable channels for electrical wiring, the most difficult installation tasks are solved.
Smooth inner walls allow pulling the wire through the pipe without the use of any devices.The cable channel from the pipe is complemented by fittings, which facilitate the installation of the mains
Corrugated and reinforced pipes
Like other cable support systems, electrical corrugated pipes are designed to protect against fire, moisture and dust, mechanical damage to the wiring.
Thanks to their flexibility, they are easy to install and do not require the use of additional accessories. They are used for laying concealed wiring for power and low-current lines.
On sale there are pipes with a metal probe and without it. The probe makes it easier to pull the wire after the installation of the channel. The smooth internal walls and the flexibility of the pipe make it easy to carry out installation even in the most difficult areas
The pipe reinforced with PVC is used for laying power lines and data cables of hidden and open type. It can be used in the construction of communications inside the building and on the street. Compared to a regular corrugated pipe, the reinforced one is more durable and provides better protection against dust and moisture.
It is made of a reinforcing spiral from impact-resistant PVC, and a connecting, covering spiral, plastic PVC. Since the reinforced pipe is able to withstand dynamic loads, it is often used in mechanical engineering.
Pipe installation is carried out using special holders that are designed for different diameters. Several elements can be interconnected
For quick and easy connection of a rigid smooth pipe and a flexible reinforced PVC pipe, various couplings are available. They can be used for direct connection, connection in different planes and at different angles. Thanks to the couplings, you can easily connect one pipe to another, to the box, to connect pipes of different diameters to each other.
The conditions for using different types of accessories may differ: some are used in indoor areas that are protected from moisture, others can be mounted outdoors, in humid and dusty rooms, have protection against penetration of moisture during temporary immersion in water, strong exposure to a stream of water.
Pipe selection should be in accordance with the marking. It indicates, inter alia, the level of protection that pipes can provide to electric and telecommunication networks (+)
The process of installing electrical wiring in a corrugated pipe, which is produced purposefully to protect power lines, is as follows:
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Step 1: Purchase of tofra and fasteners in accordance with the project
Step 2: Cutting the Corrugated Pipe
Step 3: Divide the inside of the wire
Step 4: Removing the wire to pull the cable
Step 5: Form a hole in the insulation of the wiring
Step 6: Attach the cable to the wire
Step 7: Insert the cable into the corrugated pipe
Step 8: Directly pull the cable
After completing the pulling of the electric cable through the corrugated pipe, we proceed to the installation of the wiring:
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In accordance with the pre-made marking for the building structures, fix the mounting clips. Do not forget that it is undesirable to exceed the installation step of more than 30 cm
We fix the corrugated pipe by snapping it into the mounting clips
After clicking the corrugated pipe in the clips, we check for stretched sections or sagging. If found, correct the track
We prepare plastic ties, the amount of which is determined by the number of installed mounting clips
Having stretched a plastic coupler under the mounting clip, we connect its edges in a place convenient for us
Tighten the clamp of the plastic screed to the stop. Do not overtighten so as not to compress the corrugation, but strive to achieve density in the knot
After tightening the screed will no longer be able to loose. We cut off the extra tail, leaving 2-3 mm after the lock
In a similar way we stretch, lay and fix all the wiring lines. Since the corrugation is an excellent insulator, crossing branches is permissible
Step 9: Install the mounting clips for the corrugation
Step 10: Fixing the corrugation in the mounting clips
Step 11: Correcting the Corrugation as necessary
Step 12: Preparing the Screed for Extra Fastening
Step 13: Throw the screed over the clip
Step 14: Tightening the Corrugated Pipe with a Coupler
Step 15: Trimming the Excess Part of the Screed
Step 16: Install All Wiring Lines
Hose for cable protection
The metal leakproof sleeve is made of galvanized steel tape. It is used to protect the wiring from excesses and damage of a mechanical nature, protects against fire. Serves as a shield against electromagnetic interference.
A metal hose is recommended for wiring on flammable surfaces, including wood. The maximum working temperature at which the cable channel +100 ° C can be used.
In wooden houses, wiring should be mounted only in an open way or with the full placement of the wire inside the cable channel. Fasten the metal sleeve to the surface using galvanized steel staples
Hanging trays for cable systems
Metal cable trays can be used for open routing along the elements of the building - the ceiling, walls, floor. Their installation facilitates access to the electrical network during its maintenance and modernization.
They are used inside commercial, office, industrial premises, in residential buildings and in the open air. There are also tray-shaped systems made of plastic.
Various types of brackets are provided for mounting the cable support system. Their choice depends on the type of surface to which the tray is attached (floor, ceiling, wall)
Rolling metal trays
For installation and protection of wiring, perforated and non-perforated trays are produced. Hole systems contribute to better ventilation and prevent overheating of wires.
The system consists of metal trays, connecting and fastening elements, wall and ceiling brackets, dividing partitions. The range of sizes and accessories allows you to lay cable routes of any complexity
If desired, the trays are equipped with lids, which are fixed with a simple press and do not require additional latches. The lock on the lid is firmly held on the tray even in the case of vertical mounting. The trays are connected to each other using the provided “mom-dad” connectors or a connecting plate.
Special hinge plates are used to interconnect two sections of the electrical tray at an adjustable angle
Wire trays for production lines
The production material, installation and the principle of using wire trays is slightly different from metal tray systems. The main difference between them is that the wire structures are folded with a minimum number of accessories and contribute to greater ventilation of the cable route.
The simple design is screwless mounted, using a screwdriver, provides easier access to information cables and wiring during operation
For mounting trays, use a special connection kit. It allows you to more securely fasten the elements of the cable system with each other. A set of wire suspension systems may include a cover that reliably holds wiring inside the cable channel, even in the case of a vertical arrangement of the route.
When installing, it is important to follow the rule: the connector head should be located on the inside of the tray so as not to damage the cable during pulling
Wires are laid in a box and secured with clamps. The design of wire trays can be quite roomy. This characteristic is especially relevant when installing the power grid in industrial buildings, warehouses.
To perform a smooth rotation of 90 °, it is necessary to cut using metal scissors through one four sectors. The remaining sectors are interconnected using a connecting kit.
Video # 1. What are the types of cable channels:
Video # 2. Installation of a skirting cable channel for wiring:
Video # 3. Use of corrugated pipe to protect wiring:
In the case of open wiring, in which the potential source of ignition remains not localized, the main criterion for choosing among many types of cable channels for wiring should be safety.
That is why it is necessary to carefully study the technical characteristics and operating conditions of the products. Better yet, consult an electrician.
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