Cable trunking, also called electrical cable trunking or cable ducting, is a cable management system designed to manage, protect, and conceal cables and wires in various applications for robust organisation, safety, and aesthetics. These electrical enclosures feature a rectangular cross-section with a single hinged or removable side for housing a great range of cables and wires. Concealing and protecting wires, cable trunking also protects individuals from direct contact with live wires and prevents dust and water ingress. Cable trunking is made of high-quality insulated materials, such as plastic, aluminium, PVC, and polymers. Additionally, electrical cable trunking is easy to install and comes in multiple sizes, colours, and designs to suit different wires, cables, and particular application requirements.
Potential Benefits of Using Cable Trunking
Cable trunking are enclosed channels or conduits that offer a vast range of benefits, including:
- Cable Protection/Sealing/Aesthetics
- Cost-Effective and Easy to Install
- Durable and Lightweight
- Colour-coded for Easy Wire Identification and Management
- Reduce Electromagnetic Interference and Noise
- Extremely Flexible
- Reduced Cable Wear and Tear
- Dissipate Heat and Require Minimal Maintenance.
Popular Types of Cable Trunking
Cable trunking comes in several popular types, each designed for specific purposes and environments. Some common cable trunking types include:
- PVC Cable Trunking: PVC trunking is one of the most common and cost-effective options for cable management. It comes in various sizes and shapes, including square, rectangular, and round profiles. PVC trunking is easy to install and is used in both indoor and outdoor applications.
- Metal Cable Trunking: Metal cable trunking is made from materials like steel or aluminium. It is sturdy and durable, making it suitable for heavy-duty industrial applications where cable protection and resistance to physical damage are essential.
- Adhesive Cable Trunking: These are simple cable management solutions that use adhesive backing to attach to walls, desks, or other surfaces. Self-adhesive trunking is suitable for light cable management needs and is easy to install without requiring drilling or fasteners.
- Flexible Cable Trunking: Flexible trunking is a tubular structure made of materials like PVC or metal that protect and route individual cables or bundles of cables. They are beneficial, especially in situations where the cables need to be flexible or need extra protection.
- Wire Mesh Cable Trays: Wire mesh cable trays comprise a network of wire rods or mesh that form an open, grid-like structure. They are commonly used in data centers and large installations where cables need to be suspended or routed overhead. Wire mesh trays provide good airflow and are easy to access for maintenance.
- Cable Raceway: A cable raceway is a surface-mounted cable management system designed to conceal and protect cables along walls or ceilings. Raceway systems are often used in commercial and residential buildings.
- Cable Ladder: Cable ladders are similar to wire mesh trays but have a solid structure with horizontal rungs forming a ladder-like design. They are commonly used for heavy cables and are ideal for industrial environments where cable routing requires additional support.
- Floor Cable Trunking: Floor cable trunking is installed beneath the floor surface, allowing safe and organised cable routing in office spaces and commercial buildings. It helps prevent tripping hazards and keeps cables out of sight.
- Underfloor Ducting: Underfloor ducting consists of a network of ducts and channels for organising and routing cables under raised floors in data centers and large office buildings. It offers flexibility and scalability for managing a large number of cables.
Typical Applications of Cable Trunking
Cable trunking effectively protects cables in homes and offices and provides space for other electrical equipment. They are widely used in the following settings:
- Commercial and Office Buildings
- Industrial Facilities
- Data Centers
- Electrical Workshops
- Healthcare Facilities
- Educational Institutions
- Retail Spaces
- Residential Settings
- Telecommunications
- Transportation and Infrastructure
- Renewable Energy Installations
- Hazardous Environments
- Outdoor Applications
