The complexity of the electrical wiring and data cabling deployed for multiple services in modern buildings has brought the need for effective cable management into sharp focus. InstallerELECTRIC explains how this has led to a variety of system options for use in a multitude of applications.
It’s easy for the specification of a cable management system in a modern building to seem like a peripheral issue – after all, it’s the cables themselves that power the infrastructure and transport the data. However, anyone that takes this rather short-sighted approach to the issue could soon come to regret it, as the growing complexity of the built environment means that effective cable management is the only way to ensure that electrical wiring and data cabling perform as they should.
Money matters
When it comes to cable management systems, it’s essential to consider not only the initial purchase price and suitability for the application, but also installation times, product wastage, future flexibility and the sustainability credentials of the product. The design features offered in some leading cable management solutions will come as a surprise to those who view this product set as a mere commodity purchase.
Contractors generally like to use what they are familiar with and this means that new innovative solutions can be overlooked. All too often, cable management specifications are simply cut and pasted from one project to the next, with specifications stating that the cable management should just be ‘equivalent’ to a named manufacturer. However, the requirements of a school are very different from a commercial environment, as are those of a hospital to a small industrial unit.
Features and benefits
Product performance, the type of environment that it will be used in, the atmosphere it will be exposed to, the quality of materials and the ability to be installed quickly and easily are important considerations. A wide range of uPVC and metal solutions are available and this means that selecting the right product to suit the application has become imperative. While some electrical contractors have been tempted to look towards the ‘budget’ end of the market, top tier manufacturers have decided to accentuate the benefits of their offerings.
It is important to identify features that make life easier. Therefore, consider the total installed cost and identify easy fit solutions that will save on installation time. For example, when selecting a trunking system, look for features such as slotted ends that accept pre-fitted couplers, rapid fit covers and push-fit, spring-loaded turnbuckles. Multi-head, shake-proof screws aid installation flexibility with a built-in serrated flange that bites into the steel to benefit earth continuity.
Push fit accessories and flexible components will always help too, as will a rounded safety edge that enables a contractor to work at full speed without the risk of any snagging to cables – or fingers!
Aesthetics have also grown in importance due to demand from customers for solutions that complement their office design schemes, particularly for perimeter type systems forming part of the internal décor of a room. Standard dado and skirting products are available with curved profiles that blend into the wall and design continuity is achieved through single piece covers and the addition of styling lines. Coloured and custom finishes are also readily available and can make a real difference to the interior finish.
Standard issue
The ever-evolving world of standards has also had an impact on cable management. For example, BS EN 61537 specifies the requirements and tests for cable tray systems and cable ladder systems. Meanwhile, BS EN 50085-1 is the standard for cable trunking systems and cable ducting systems, and specifies the general requirements and test methods for these systems to ensure they provide adequate mechanical and electrical protection for cables.
BS 8519:2020 provides guidance on fire resistant power and control cable systems in critical circuits. To enhance fire safety, fire rated cable management solutions such as intumescent coatings, fire barriers and low smoke zero halogen (LSZH) materials are often utilised. This ensures that electrical infrastructure remains operational during fire incidents, reducing the risk of structural failure.
The Equality Act stipulates that cable management systems have a light reflectance value (LRV) difference of at least 30 points from their background to assist individuals with visual impairments – therefore, it is not possible to have a white socket against white trunking. This helps prevent trips and falls by making cables and their coverings easily distinguishable against floors, walls or ceilings, creating safer spaces for all individuals.
Data protection
The need to protect data communications cabling has been the catalyst for the development of products with greater capacity and flexibility. With IT network infrastructure now considered the ‘fourth utility’, the most appropriate cable management solution must be implemented to ensure that it performs as it should. Data cables have precise manufacturing tolerances and require specific and careful management. Therefore, any installation must now consider requirements for structured cabling and consider the future needs of the building in terms of IT network infrastructure capacity.
Steel wire and uPVC are by far the most popular types of cable management for this type of application and each has its own advantages. Three compartment uPVC trunking can accommodate power, data and voice cabling, and it is usual to see two of the three compartments being used for cabling, with the third centre compartment providing cable segregation, as well as room for easy termination. Wire tray continues to gain market share though as it is flexible, quick and easy to install, and has good heat dissipation.
Any cable management design should be appropriately considered during the contract negotiation phase of the project, so that all requirements can be taken into consideration. Factors such as containment not being large enough to handle either the initial cabling requirement or any potential expansion, insufficient power and data cabling separation, failure to protect the cable from sharp edges, tight bends with the cable management system itself, and sections of the system not being extended between horizontal and vertical cable runs should all be avoided.
Scratching the surface
Despite the common misconception of cable management solutions as being simple and uncomplicated, it is surprising just how often they are specified and installed incorrectly. Regardless of whether it is being used to house electrical, data cabling or both, certain purchasing criteria must always be kept in mind.
The wide variety of solutions that are available can at first appear confusing, however, the time taken to choose the right product for the application will save time and money for electrical contractors, and provide a cost effective, standards compliant and aesthetically pleasing system for the customer.
