Cable management is critical whether it be at home or in a business setting. Those wires carry not only power but data to and from essential devices that would make things a lot more difficult if they weren’t working properly.
But cable management is a lot more thorough than simply throwing a cable tie on things. As a matter of fact, professional cable trunking can be one of the best investments that you make for the longevity of your cables.
Cable Trunking Types
There are a lot of factors to consider when it comes to cable management systems. Before you look into cable trunking systems from a trusted vendor like RS, it helps to know the different sizes and types. Each type serves a different purpose and can provide convenience and protection when properly installed. cable trunking systems from a trusted vendor like RS
Multi-compartment trunking. The more comprehensive the setup, the more segregated they need to be. There are safety reasons for this – preventing tripping hazards and fire, primarily – but more compartmentalized cable management makes it a lot easier to figure out what is what.
Typically, this kind of trunking system creates separation between not only different services but different voltages as well. When service or replacement is needed, the technician (or you, if you manage it) can get precisely to the problem and get it resolved without having to sort through several types of cable.
Lighting trunking. For lighting systems, this kind of cable trunking is preferable. That’s because it is installed with the opening pointing downward so that it is much easier to gain access to. Removing the cables would create issues not only managing them but reinstalling them.
The most common use for this type of cable trunking is with luminaries. The open face is also good for heat ventilation, reducing the chances of fire.
Bus-bar trunking. For applications where something a bit sturdier is required, bus-bar trunking is the most optimal solution. For this kind of trunking, a sturdier material like aluminum or copper is required. These materials stand up to greater force, protecting the components within.
Bus-bar trunking is also great for outdoor installations. Copper never rusts, making it perfect to stand up to frequent moisture and weather changes. This trunking system is meant to stand up over the course of time better than others.
Standard cable trunking. This is one of the simplest types of trunking systems. The concept is largely the same, but the main difference is that the cover for the system is kept securely in place by turnbuckles. The turnbuckles provide greater stability while making it easy to gain access. Standard cable trunking is the most common type, especially for smaller businesses since it won’t undergo as much wear and tear.
Different Material Types
Another great thing about cable management systems for business or residential purposes is that they come in a wide range of materials. Each material is better suited for one purpose versus another, so don’t just assume that one material works for everything.
The most common types of cable management systems include:
- Stainless steel
- Plastic or PVC
- Grey enamel zinc coating
- Silver enamel zinc coating
- Galvanized coating that has been hot dipped
Conduit Types
There is another important part of the trunking system known as a conduit. The conduit is a channel, tube, or pipe that protects and covers the insulated conductors. The outer sheath of the cable is protected from potential mechanical damage as well.
With conduit installation, rewiring or changing them out is very easy and can happen at any time. They come in different types, primarily stainless steel, PVC, and Steel.