Cable channels: sizes and classification of products. Choice of parameters and estimate

The text deals with such a type of fixtures as cable channels: dimensions and structure of structures, classification of products by main characteristics (material, configuration, design, structure), advantages and scope of their application, as well as additional fittings. The text contains a brief overview of popular manufacturers, average prices for cable channels and recommendations for choosing these products.

Cable channels greatly simplify the installation of wiring during repair

Device and types of cable channels for electrical wiring: types, prices of products

The cable channel is a box for electrical wiring, made in the form of a closed profile. In most cases, products are triangular or rectangular, although there are other options. The structure consists of a metal or plastic box and a cover. The product is fixed to the surface in various ways.

The cable channel is a construction of a metal or plastic box and cover

For installation are used:

• rivets;
• self-tapping screws;
• special glue;
• screws, etc.

After the product is installed and secured, the cables are laid in the channels, and then the cover is closed. Thanks to the special design, all parts of the device are securely held, so there is no need to purchase additional clips. Various accessories can be included in the package. It is used to install additional items.

The standard set usually contains:

• adapters;
• L- or T-shaped connectors;
• cable duct plugs;
• corners, etc.

Connection diagram of the cable channel using additional fittings

If any of the parts was damaged during the installation process, it can be purchased separately at any hardware store.

The following types of wires can be laid in cable channels for electrical wiring:

• computer;
• power;
• television;
• telephone;
• low-current (video surveillance and fire alarm).

The scope of application of structures, mainly plastic, extends to office and residential buildings, industrial and administrative facilities, medical and educational institutions, baths and entertainment complexes.

Advantages of installing electrical wiring in a cable channel:

1. Long lasting result.
2. Safety and practicality.
3. Protection of wiring from mechanical and chemical damage, as well as from the effects of moisture and temperature.
4. Aesthetically pleasing appearance.
5. Profitability.
6. Quick access to wiring.

Plastic cable ducts are most often used in residential or office premises

Useful advice! When choosing designs, you need to pay attention to the quality of the grooves and fasteners. The durability of the box depends on this, because during operation the product will be subjected to constant loads.

Characteristics of metal cable channels

Metal structures are considered to be of higher quality than plastic boxes for electrical wiring. For their manufacture, manufacturers use two types of material: galvanized steel and anodized aluminum. Such products are capable of withstanding heavy loads.

Products made of galvanized steel are fireproof. They are used to install warning systems and video surveillance. Steel boxes protect the wires from mechanical damage and the influence of electromagnetic radiation. The price of these products is much higher than plastic ones. The cost of a galvanized cable channel 60x40 mm 2 m long (manufactured by OBO Bettermann) is 1175 rubles / piece.

Boxes made of anodized aluminum do not transmit electromagnetic radiation to the wiring. This type of material is resistant to fire and mechanical stress, it is practical and durable. The purchase of an aluminum mini-channel 65x40 mm per section (manufactured by SIMON) will cost 3500 rubles / piece.

Metal cable channels are of higher quality and more durable than their PVC counterparts

The advantages of metal products:

• simple installation system;
• high level of fire safety;
• a large selection of colors;
• the presence of a cover complete with a reliable latch.

In addition to this, the steel box has high impact resistance, resistance to temperature changes and direct sunlight.

Characteristics of plastic boxes for wires

Plastic boxes for electrical wiring are in high demand. These structures can have a square, triangular or rectangular cross-section. In the assortment of modern stores you can find plastic products of all types and sizes, cable ducts of this type can perform a protective function and at the same time act as a decorative mask for wires.

Advantages of plastic boxes:

• lightweight construction;
• resistance to corrosive effects;
• simple fixation system;
• no tools are required to mount the cover;
• affordable cost;
• high decorative properties of PVC cable channels allow using them in any interiors;
• no special care required;
• the material lends itself well to cutting and allows you to get pieces of any length;
• does not undergo deformation changes under the influence of temperature jumps.

Cable channels differ from each other in the material of manufacture, configuration and dimensions

Note! In premises where there is a high probability of fire, it is not recommended to use PVC cable channels. In this case, it is better to give preference to metal products.

Types and sizes of cable channels: prices and features

Cable channels differ from each other not only by the material of manufacture, but also by the configuration and size. There are unusual products on sale, for example, from aluminum alloys or transparent plastic.

The main types of cable channels:

• skirting boards;
• parapet;
• outdoor;
• mini constructions;
• corner type;
• for mounting LED strips;
• metal trays.

All of them have a specific purpose, have their own characteristics and size range.

Features of plastic floor skirting boards with cable duct

If you need to secretly lay electrical wiring indoors, it is better to use skirting boards. Inside these structures there are cavities where the cable is laid. Products are available in different colors, so consumers can choose the right option for any design and room style.

There are many designs of skirting-type boxes on the market, which help to lay the wiring invisibly

These products are very comfortable and practical. On sale you can find not only whole systems of skirting-type boxes, but also additional devices that are used to assemble structures of any configuration.

Such devices include:

• bends of various shapes;
• internal corners;
• outer corners;
• junction boxes (100x100x50 mm and other sizes);
• multimodular boxes, etc.

All of these devices are designed to fit a socket into a cable duct or switch. In addition, additional devices allow the installation of these elements directly at the level of the skirting board. This will ensure that switches and sockets are less conspicuous and less attention-grabbing, although this option is not suitable for older people who cannot bend low.

Skirting boxes are available in different colors:

• black;
• white;
• gray;
• imitation of various materials, for example, metal or wood.

Sizes and standards depend solely on the manufacturer. Consumers can order partitions, plugs, cable channels and other devices of various sizes from Legrand.

When comparing different boxes, remember that the size ranges depend solely on the manufacturer.

The boxes of this brand are presented in two series:

1. Mini - 12.5x20 mm, 12.5x32 mm, 12.5x40 mm, 66x32 mm, 16x40 mm. In addition, this series includes cable channels 60x60 mm, 20x75 mm and 20x60 mm.
2. DPL - 80x35 mm, 105x35 mm, 150x50 mm, 105x50 mm, 80x50 mm and 150x60 mm.

Note! Skirting boards with a cable channel make it possible to refuse from wall chasing when laying electrical wiring. Thus, installation work is greatly simplified. In addition, there is no need for specialized tools, debris removal and wall restoration.

Cable ducts: dimensions and characteristics of floor trunks

This type of boxes differs not only in its shape, but also in the way of installation. One side of the product is flat and the other is rounded. As a result, the floor-mounted product looks harmonious and does not interfere. For the production of floor cable ducts, manufacturers use aluminum and plastic with impact-resistant properties.

If you need to bring wiring to an object that is located far from walls, flexible cable channels are often used

Floor-standing cable trays are used as part of the overall system. They are necessary in cases where you need to bring wiring to a lighting fixture or table that is located far from the walls. This type of product can be a complete replacement for carriers and extension cords.

The most common floor trunking sizes:

• 17x75 mm;
• 12x50 mm;
• 65x160 mm;
• 20x92 mm.

The colors of these designs are not so varied and include white, black and gray shades. Fittings of the appropriate size are used to design the joints between the two strips. The lower part is mounted first. After that, the cables are laid, and the structure is closed with a cover.

Several manufacturers offer practical accessories that increase the quality and reliability of the system. For example, Legrand cable trunks are completed with details such as joints and corners. These elements have a special design, thanks to which it is enough to simply snap them in so that the fixation of the structure turns out to be reliable.Moreover, the product provides a high degree of protection. Most often it reaches IP40.

Specificity of parapet cable channels for electrical wiring

Parapet boxes have another name - trunk boxes. Their configuration is in many ways similar to the structure of skirting cable ducts. The differences are primarily related to the installation method, since parapet products are installed above the floor level. These systems include many elements that allow you to create a structure of any shape.

Most often, trunk ducts are installed in enterprises and offices. Installation is also allowed in residential premises (apartments, private houses), but in this case it is advisable to select the colors of the products to match the wall decoration. The color scheme includes several options, but the main tones are milky and white. You can find other shades, but this is quite difficult. Common sizes of cable channels: 100x60 mm, 80x40 mm, 150x60 mm and 120x55 mm.

Project for the placement of trunk cable channels

For each type of section, you can select the necessary fittings:

• stubs;
• outer corners;
• internal corners;
• splitters.

Helpful advice! Parapet trays can be used to mask routes connecting indoor and outdoor units of air conditioning systems. They are ideal for this purpose.

Characteristics and size range of mini cable channels: 25x16 mm, 10x10 mm and other sizes

There is a reduced version of parapet boxes - mini-designs. They are designed to run a certain number of wires, usually television, telephone and Internet cables. The smallest dimensions of these cable channels are 10x15 mm and 10x10 mm.

When using such small structures, fittings are not used to decorate the corner parts. To do this, cut the cable channel at the required angle. In most cases, 45 ° cuts are made. In this case, you must take into account the placement of the corner, which can be external or internal.

Related article:

Wiring connection in the wiring junction box

Varieties and methods of installing junction boxes. How to install yourself.

Common product sizes and prices:

• cable channel 20x10 mm (34 rubles / piece);
• 10x10 mm and 10x12 mm (30 rubles / piece);
• 12x12 mm and 16x12 mm (32 rubles / piece);
• cable channel 40x25 mm (90 rubles / piece);
• 20x12 mm and 20x16 mm (36 rubles / piece);
• 16x40 mm and 16x60 mm (79 rubles / piece);
• cable channel 16x16 mm (35 rubles / piece);

Cross-sectional view of the cable duct with single and double locks

• 20x25 mm and 20x40 mm (39 rubles / piece);
• 20x60 mm and 25x10 mm (42 rubles / piece);
• cable channel 25x16 (price per meter is 25 rubles and 50 rubles / piece);
• 25x12 mm and 25x16 mm (48 rubles / piece);
• 25x60 mm and 40x10 mm (82 rubles / piece);
• cable channel 25x25 (price per product - 74 rubles);
• 40x40 mm and 40x60 mm (92 rubles / piece);
• 80x10 and 12x80 (97 rubles / piece), etc.

There are many options for combining standard parameters. Mini-boxes for cables have a fairly wide range of sizes. On sale you can find narrow and tall products, low and wide.

Corner, metal boxes for wires, trays for LED strips

Due to their configuration, angular cable trunks have a narrow scope of application. They are mounted at the junction of surfaces such as walls or ceilings. In addition, corner structures can be used instead of skirting boards. This material is cut with a hacksaw. If the cutting is done carefully, the corner boxes look like decorative elements.

These products have one significant drawback over skirting structures. The cavities for the wires in them are very small and the walls are thin, which is why there is a high probability of damage during installation work. The most popular size is 40x40 mm, so not all wires can be placed inside.

For the installation of LED years, angular channel designs are most often used.

LED trays are one of the varieties of corner products. However, their lid is made of plastic, which can be completely transparent or translucent.

Boxes for LED strips are mounted in certain areas:

• corners under the ceiling base;
• the bottom panel of kitchen cabinets;
• the interior of the furniture.

Note! LED strip trays are not used for wiring. They are designed for mounting the backlight in the form of an LED strip. These trays are positioned taking into account the direction in which the luminous flux should fall.

Metal boxes are most often used in panel and frame houses. It is in these buildings that the likelihood of a fire is high. Such trays are placed inside ceilings and walls. Then the electrical wiring is pulled. In the right places, it is brought out through the decoration of the ceiling and walls.

Wire trays are used in the arrangement of stretch or suspended ceilings. They can significantly reduce the time of laying the cable in the cable channel, while the estimate is also reduced, since the purchase of small fasteners is not required, you can limit yourself to only a few suspensions. The height of the structures is 80, 50 and 100 mm. The width can be varied and varies from 50 mm to 600 mm. Standard length - 3 m.

Metal boxes are the most suitable option for premises with a high level of fire hazard

Features of the assortment of decorative cable channels

Decorative boxes are often used by designers when decorating interiors. These elements not only decorate the room, but also perform useful functions. For example, corner boxes in combination with LED strips are suitable for decorating and zoning rooms. Cable ducts with a triangular cross-section are the best option for niches in suspended and stretch ceilings.

Some types of decorative cables are made in the form of bronze or brass tubes. This option is used when arranging retro-style wiring. Round conduits for electrical wiring look very impressive. Nevertheless, the system of their installation and the installation of cables inside require a lot of effort. Transparent LED products not only prevent fires, but also protect light elements from contamination. In most cases, it is the dust that becomes the provocateur of circuit and fire.

Advantages of decorative wiring:

1. Original and stylish design.
2. Ideal for log cabins and other wooden structures.
3. Possibility to carry out visual control of power supply.
4. Simple installation system without the need to gouge walls, apply plaster and cement.

Colored boxes are selected taking into account the general palette of the room. For austere and business premises, gray shades are suitable. For living rooms, it is advisable to select cable channels for wood or in warm colors (beige, gold, brown).

Options for decorative design of cable channels:

• imitation of wood will fit optimally into the space of wooden houses, where rooms are decorated in a rustic style, for example, Provence, country, rustic, English;
• a box made "for metal" is suitable for such modern styles as minimalism, techno and hi-tech;
• monophonic cable channels are universal and suitable for interiors in any style;
• colored boxes will be an excellent complement to bright interiors made in the style of kitsch, avant-garde, eclecticism, art deco, fusion and pop art.

Round metal-look cable duct can be the finishing touch in interior design

Helpful advice! For laying cables on flat surfaces, it is better to use ducts with a rigid structure and a removable cover. In other cases, it will be advisable to use special products with a flexible structure. These include sectional cable ducts, tubular and chain-shaped.

How to lay the cable duct: quotations in the estimate, size selection and recommendations

The procedure and features of installation work depend on whether fittings will be used or not. If they are present in the system, then the manufacturer usually gives recommendations as to how far they will be located and how much space should be allocated for their installation.It is advisable to adhere to these rules exactly so that the result is neat and beautiful.

If you intend to wiring in cable channels, before starting work, you must determine the dimensions of all components in advance. The dimensions of the boxes are selected taking into account the size of the conductors, their type, and also the number. Moreover, the calculation must be done with a margin in case you have to add 1-2 cables.

The number of wires in the cable channel is not standardized. The main thing is that the lid of the structure then closes without problems. In some situations, restrictions appear. For example, if you want to place low-current and power cables separately. In this case, the size of their section is selected so that there is a small gap between these groups.

First you need to decide on the purpose of the wires. Based on this, the optimal section size is selected, to which 4-5 mm should be added. This margin is necessary for those cases when repair or replacement of cables is required and an additional wire is laid in a free area. In addition, the presence of space inside the box will prevent the entire system from igniting when closed.

If you need to place low-current and power cables at the same time, you should give preference to models of a box with a separator

Drawing up an estimate for laying a cable in a cable channel: prices for professional services

Since the installation of electrical wiring involves a certain risk, it is advisable to entrust this work to the hands of professionals. Many companies offer price lists for the main types of work. However, the final cost of laying the cable ducts and other components of the overall system is determined based on the estimated cost.

Average prices for professional services:

When making an estimate, the following factors are taken into account:

• the purpose of the premises and its features;
• the total amount of electrical work to be performed;
• the composition of the system (the number of boxes, switches and sockets for cable channels, fittings, etc.);
• prices for materials.

Helpful advice! A competently drawn up estimate will allow you to wisely distribute funds. Knowing the exact price of materials and services, you can optimize costs and, if necessary, refuse costs that are beyond the budget.

The cost of complex electrical work in an apartment of 50 m²:

Popular manufacturers of cable channels: DKC, Legrand, IEK

To supplement the data on the estimate, you need to decide on the manufacturer. Not only the quality of products depends on the manufacturer, but also the prices for them.

The German manufacturer Hager produces products for offices. However, due to its high quality, cable channels and other components are also used in residential premises. The structures have a modern design, so they can be used in almost any interior. The manufacturer produces trunk products (tehalit.BR collection) and universal (tehalit.LFF collection).

In the assortment line of each manufacturer, cable ducts are represented by profiles of various standard sizes

DKS cable channels are available for sale in 4 varieties. Wall-mounted constructions are equipped with a flat cover, they are convenient and compact. Floor trunks are equipped with swiveling elements. Thanks to this design, they can be easily connected to each other. The manufacturer also produces mini-channels. These boxes are priced in white and brown.

Legrand products are represented by profiles of various standard sizes. The width of these structures sometimes reaches 22 cm. From the inside, the body is divided into sections (from 1 to 3 pieces). In Legrand cable channels, there are two types of partitions, which differ from each other in the way of installation. In the first case, the element is installed in a special groove. In the second case, flexible parts are used that are simply glued to the wall.

Important! After laying the wires, the cable duct cover must snap into place without resistance when closing.

IEK cable channels produced by a domestic manufacturer are manufactured using modern equipment. At the same time, special additives are used, thanks to which the products acquire unique properties, for example, plasticity. Due to this, the boxes maintain their integrity and performance, even if a strong kink occurs. IEK group of companies specializes in the production of trunk cable channels. They are ideal for the installation of low-current and power cables, as well as information networks.

Schneider Electric is another popular manufacturer. The range of the company is represented by the Ultrac series of cable trunks, which includes two types of products. Installation of sockets and switches into the system is carried out together with modular frames. Mini cable channels are equipped with a U-shaped cover. The company produces designs with self-adhesive tape, which greatly simplifies the process of their installation.

The range of modern cable channels allows you to implement any design solution when decorating a room

The offer of the modern market allows you to select cable ducts with any characteristics and design. In order not to be mistaken with the choice of parts for laying electrical wiring in the house, it is necessary to take into account all factors, including the size of the structures, manufacturer, decorative qualities and purpose. Correctly selected boxes will not only mask unattractive cables in the room, but will also be able to complement any modern interior.