Metal trunking

Types of metal trunking

Metal trunking is used to carry electrical wires and cables. It protects wires from damage and keeps them safe. There are different kinds of metal trunking used in buildings. Each kind has its own special use and helpful features.

• Steel

  Steel metal trunking is strong and long-lasting. It can handle heavy usage and resist damage. Steel trunking is good for places where protection is needed, like factories or workshops. Steel trunking is great for carrying big wires or cables.

• Aluminum

  Aluminum trunking is light but still strong. It does not rust, so it is good for wet or damp places. It is also good for places with high temperatures. Aluminum trunking is used in kitchens, hospitals, and outdoor areas.

• Brass

  Brass trunking is very good at conducting electricity. It also does not rust or corrode easily. Brass trunking is used where electricity needs to be carried safely and efficiently, like in laboratories or research centers.

• Stainless Steel

  Stainless steel trunking does not rust or corrode. It can handle extreme temperatures and chemicals. It is also very clean and neat. This kind of trunking is used in pharmaceutical plants, chemical factories, and food processing industries.

• Copper

  Copper trunking is very good at conducting electricity and heat. It is also resistant to corrosion. Copper trunking is used in electrical systems that carry a lot of current or in areas where wires may get very hot.

Design of metal trunking

Metal trunking is made in several customized shapes and sizes. It helps to satisfy different needs and preferences. The following are some important aspects of its design.

• Material Options

  Metal trunking is made from different materials to meet specific needs. Common options are:

  The most popular choice is usually galvanized steel. It resists corrosion and is strong.

  Aluminum is lightweight and resistant to corrosion. It is used where weight matters or in wet areas.

  Brass offers high corrosion resistance and good conductivity. It is used in special applications where metal trunking needs to resist corrosion or conduct electricity well.

• Shape and Size

  Metal trunking comes in many shapes to fit different needs. The shapes include square, rectangular, circular, and oval. The most common shapes are square and rectangular. They provide a lot of room for cables and wires. The size of the trunking should match the number and size of the cables it holds. It ensures that the cables fit well without being too tight or loose.

• Cover and Base Design

  The cover and base of metal trunking are designed for easy access and secure closure. They may have screw-on covers, clip-on covers, or hinged covers that open to one side. The covers and base should fit well to keep dust and moisture out and protect the cables inside. Some trunking also has special seals or gaskets to keep it clean and dry.

• Aesthetics and Finish

  The finish and appearance of metal trunking are important for its look and protection. Common finishes include powder coating, painting, and plating. These finishes make the trunking look good and protect it from damage. Trunking can also be made to match the color of the walls or ceilings where it is installed. It makes it less visible or in a different color to make it stand out.

Scenarios of metal trunking

Metal trunking systems are found in a wide range of sectors and industries due to their adaptability and capacity to meet various wiring management demands. These are some common scenarios where metal trunking is essential:

• Commercial Buildings

  Office buildings, shopping malls, and hotels need effective wiring systems to accommodate their complex electrical needs. Metal trunking provides a secure and organized way to manage power distribution, lighting circuits, and data cabling in commercial buildings, ensuring a neat appearance and simplifying maintenance.

• Industrial Facilities

  Manufacturing plants, warehouses, and workshops require robust wiring solutions that can endure harsh settings. Metal trunking protects cables from mechanical damage, exposure to chemicals, and extreme temperatures in industrial facilities, providing a durable and reliable method for wiring management.

• Healthcare Institutions

  Hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes need strict safety standards for electrical installations due to the critical nature of their operations. Metal trunking provides a clean and hygienic environment for cable management in healthcare institutions, where easy cleaning and infection control are necessary, ensuring patient safety and staff efficiency.

• Educational Institutions

  Schools, colleges, and universities require flexible wiring systems that can adapt to changing technological needs. Metal trunking offers an accessible and reconfigurable solution for managing electrical and data cabling in educational institutions, allowing easy upgrades and expansions as required.

• Data Centers

  With the increasing demand for data storage and processing, data centers require efficient wiring management for their servers and networking equipment. Metal trunking provides a neat and organized solution for managing the high-density cabling in data centers, ensuring proper airflow and ease of troubleshooting.

• Transportation Systems

  Subways, airports, and highways need reliable electrical installations for safety and efficiency. Metal trunking protects cables in the harsh environments of transportation systems, providing a secure and durable solution for wiring management.

How to choose a metal trunking

When choosing metal trunking for a project, consider the following factors to ensure it meets the needs and provides the required protection and organization for electrical wiring:

• Project requirements and scope

  Evaluate the size and nature of the project to determine how much trunking will be needed. Consider the types of areas where the trunking will be installed, such as commercial, industrial, or residential spaces, as this will influence the material, design, and specifications required.

• Material selection

  Choose from the available materials based on the environment and application. For instance, if the trunking will be exposed to corrosive environments, select one made of aluminum or galvanized steel. For most indoor applications, mild steel or powder-coated steel trunking is suitable.

• Size and capacity

  Ensure the metal trunking has enough capacity to hold all the required cables and wires. Select a size that allows for future growth and easy installation. Trunking sizing standards are available to help select the right size based on cable fill.

• Compliance with standards

  Make sure the metal trunking complies with local and national electrical codes and industry standards. Compliance with standards ensures safety, performance, and compatibility with other electrical components.

• Ease of installation and maintenance

  Look for metal trunking that is easy to install and maintain. Consider features such as removable covers, integrated supports, and accessibility for cable installation and maintenance. Evaluate the availability of installation accessories and support from the manufacturer or supplier.

• Cost and budget

  Determine the total cost of the metal trunking, including installation and maintenance costs, and ensure it is within budget. Consider the initial purchase price and the long-term costs associated with maintenance, replacement, and potential energy savings.

Q&A

Q1: What is metal trunking used for?

A1: Metal trunking is used to route and protect electrical wires and cables. It provides a secure pathway for wiring, reducing the risk of damage and helping to maintain a tidy and organized installation.

Q2: What types of metal are commonly used in trunking?

A2: Common metals used in trunking include galvanized steel, aluminum, and stainless steel. Each type of metal has its own advantages, such as corrosion resistance, strength, and cost-effectiveness.

Q3: How does metal cable trunking protect against fire?

A3: Metal trunking can help contain a fire within the trunking system and prevent it from spreading to other areas of the building. It also protects cables from heat damage in the event of a fire.

Q4: Can metal trunking be used in damp or corrosive environments?

A4: Yes, metal trunking can be used in damp or corrosive environments, but it is important to choose the right type of metal trunking that is designed for such conditions. For example, stainless steel trunking is suitable for corrosive environments.

Q5: How is metal cable trunking installed?

A5: Metal cable trunking is typically installed by mounting it onto walls or ceilings using brackets or screws. Sections of trunking can be joined together using connectors, and accessories such as bends, tees, and reducers can be used to navigate around obstacles and change the direction of the trunking system.