Marshall-Tufflex has opened a new Customer Experience Centre in Manchester, creating a dedicated facility for customers and partners across the electrical industry.

The purpose-built centre has been designed as a hub for meetings, product demonstrations and training, allowing the company to host customer visits, CPD sessions and technical presentations. It also provides visitors with the opportunity to explore Marshall-Tufflex’s cable management solutions and discuss applications with members of the company’s team.

The facility showcases a wide range of cable management systems, including Basor metal cable management products such as wire basket, ladder, tray and trunking systems. Visitors can also view the company’s PVC-U cable management range, which includes trunking and conduit manufactured using recycled PVC-U.

Other displays highlight Marshall-Tufflex’s underfloor-to-desk solutions designed to manage power and data connections from raised floors to workstations, as well as GRP cable management systems suited to harsh or corrosive environments.

In addition to product displays, the centre includes meeting and training facilities, featuring a conference room that can accommodate up to 18 guests in a boardroom layout or 35 theatre style. Two breakout rooms, seating four and eight people respectively, are also available for smaller meetings and discussions.

Marshall-Tufflex says the new Manchester facility reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting contractors and wholesalers with practical environments where they can learn more about products, applications and best practice.

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Mike Jackson, Sales Director at Unicrimp, explains how the brand has strengthened its installation performance with its comprehensive conduit accessories range.

Unicrimp continues to support professional electricians and wholesalers with a comprehensive portfolio of Q-Crimp conduit accessories. Designed to meet the evolving demands of modern electrical installations, the range enhances the safety, durability and long-term performance of conduit systems across residential, commercial and industrial applications. It provides wholesalers with a broad, in‑demand product offering and gives installers the confidence of reliable, compliant components on every job.

The role of conduit in modern installations

Conduit remains fundamental to effective cable management, providing protection, organisation and structured routing for electrical wiring. In today’s installations – where compliance, safety and longevity are paramount – selecting the correct conduit accessories is as important as choosing the conduit itself. Its key functions include:

• Cable protection and safety – Conduit shields wiring from mechanical impact, moisture, chemicals and environmental hazards, reducing the risk of faults such as short circuits and preventing access to live parts.
• Organisation and maintenance efficiency – By enabling clean, structured routing, conduit helps maintain orderly installations and simplifies future inspection, maintenance and fault‑finding.
• Regulatory compliance – Correct selection and installation of conduit and associated accessories is essential for meeting relevant standards, including the IET Wiring Regulations, across all installation types.

A complete conduit accessory solution

Developed with installers in mind, Unicrimp’s Q‑Crimp conduit accessories combine robust materials with practical design features to streamline installation and deliver long‑term reliability. With more than 90 individual products, the range ensures wholesalers can offer a comprehensive solution suitable for virtually any application.

Expanded sizes to meet growing demand

Since the initial launch of the Q-Crimp conduit accessories range, Unicrimp has responded to market demand with significant size expansions – particularly in larger conduit applications.

The size expansion applies across several core product lines, including:

• Long pattern brass male bushes (32mm, 1.5” and 2”)
• Short pattern brass male bushes (32mm, 1.5” and 2”)
• Brass female bushes (32mm, 1.5” and 2”)
• Solid couplers (32mm, 1.5” and 2”)
• Flange couplers (32mm, 1.5” and 2”)
• Milled edge lock rings (32mm, 38mm and 50mm)
• Light gauge lock nuts (32mm, 38mm and 50mm)

Introducing threaded nipples – a new product category

In addition to size extensions, the Q-Crimp range now welcomes a completely new product type: Threaded nipples, which are available in 20mm, 25mm and 32mm sizes. This addition further strengthens the range’s position as a complete conduit accessory solution. Designed for secure conduit-to-enclosure connections and system extensions, threaded nipples provide reliable alignment and mechanical stability while maintaining electrical continuity. The introduction of this new category reflects Unicrimp’s continued commitment to evolving the range in line with installer needs.

Other key product categories to highlight include conduit boxes, light gauge saddles, inspection tees, inspection bends, and metal hooks.

Conduit boxes

Also known as BESA boxes, these units are designed to protect and route electrical cables within building structures. The Q-Crimp range includes 1-way, 2-way, 3-way, and 4-way conduit boxes, available in angled, tangent, ‘U’, ‘Y’ and ‘H’ shape configurations – providing flexibility for a wide range of wiring layouts.

Light gauge saddles

Designed to secure conduit firmly in place, light gauge saddles wrap precisely around the conduit to provide reliable system support. Finished with a BZP (bright zinc plated) coating, they offer resistance to corrosion and oxidation, ensuring durability in demanding environments.

Inspection tees

Inspection tees create a three-way junction with an accessible window, enabling straightforward cable inspection and maintenance.

Inspection bends

Suitable for directional changes – typically 90° or 45° – and incorporating an inspection feature for cable access, supporting efficient testing and future modifications.

Metal hooks

Diecast screwed metal hooks designed for suspending cables or lightweight fittings where required.

Key features and installer benefits

Unicrimp’s conduit accessories deliver a range of benefits valued by professional installers:

• Durable construction – Manufactured from galvanised steel to resist corrosion and environmental stress.
• Heat resistance – The high-quality materials used means conduit accessories can handle high temperatures, making them suitable for industrial and commercial applications.
• Flexibility – Available in multiple sizes to accommodate varying conduit diameters, with elbows, bends and junction boxes supporting adaptable system design and expansion.
• Versatility – Designed for use across a wide variety of installation environments, both indoors and outdoors.

Assured quality and technical support

As with all Unicrimp products, the Q-Crimp conduit accessories are manufactured in accordance with Scolmore Group’s stringent quality criteria and are designed to meet the requirements of their intended markets. Compliance is supported through:

• Independent third-party testing
• Routine inspection and maintenance of manufacturing facilities
• Batch coding for full product traceability

Installers and wholesalers also benefit from the expertise of the Scolmore Group technical department, providing guidance on specification, compliance and best‑practice installation.

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Mike Jackson, Sales Director with Unicrimp – part of the Scolmore Group – explains why cable connections represent a key growth opportunity for electrical wholesalers.

In today’s market, wholesalers play a vital role in supporting electrical contractors with the right products, expertise, and stock availability. While cables often grab the spotlight, it’s the connections that determine how safely and efficiently every system performs. Poor quality or ill-suited junction boxes and connectors can lead to system faults, costly callbacks, and reputational damage – for both contractors and suppliers.

That’s why it’s essential for wholesalers to offer reliable, regulation-compliant, and installer-friendly cable connection solutions. Unicrimp’s Q-Nect range has been designed with exactly this in mind, helping wholesalers meet demand across domestic, commercial, and industrial sectors with a product line that delivers performance, safety, and ease of installation.

Why cable connectors matter

With installations becoming increasingly complex – from EV chargers and solar systems to smart building networks – electrical contractors are facing higher load demands and tighter project timelines. At the same time, compliance with BS 7671 and standards such as BS EN 60670-22 means connection integrity and protection are under greater scrutiny.

Wholesalers who can stock and recommend compliant, high-quality junction boxes and connectors are not only supporting their customers’ technical needs but also reinforcing trust and loyalty. This creates upselling opportunities and positions the wholesaler as a go-to resource for problem-solving and product expertise.

Unicrimp’s Q-Nect series is built to simplify installations while ensuring long-term reliability. Each product is engineered for speed, safety, and compliance, helping installers save time and effort – and giving wholesalers a trusted range that delivers repeat business.

The Q-Nect IP Weatherproof Junction Box offers a range of features:

• Fast installation: Designed to house four 3-Port Lever Connectors, with a 360° detachable cradle for easy access.
• Superior protection: IP66-rated with self-sealing membranes to safeguard against dust, dirt, and water.
• Flexible entry options: Ten membrane entry points and up to eight M20 gland fittings without tools.
• Quick fixing: Wall-mount directly or use a detachable clip system.
• Smart aesthetics: Available in black and anthracite grey to match the Click Aquip66 range – ideal for coordinated outdoor installations.

The semi-transparent lid option allows quick visual inspection without removing the cover – a small detail that saves installers valuable time and reduces risk.

When space is at a premium, the compact 85mm x 55mm x 52mm version offers all the protection and ease of use of its larger counterpart, with four, pre-fitted three way lever connectors and eight membrane entries. It’s perfect for confined spaces or retrofit environments – another key line for wholesalers serving domestic and light commercial installers. It can be fixed directly to a wall using four screws into the pre-moulded holes in the base. 

IP connection boxes (2 & 3 way)

The range includes:

• 4 Pole 2 Way 24A IP68 Inline Box
• 4 Pole 3 Way 24A IP68 (M16+M20) Box
• 3 Pole 2 Way 16A IP66 Box

The IP68 boxes feature pre-fitted nylon glands for watertight sealing, strain relief, and cable protection. A hinged lid allows easy access, and fixing points simplify installation. Rated IP68, they resist dust, dirt, and submersion up to 1m for 60 minutes. The compact IP66 box also withstands high pressure water jets.

5 pole, 3 way IP68 ‘T’ & inline connectors

Built from durable nylon for tough environments, these connectors secure cables in all conditions. With 5 pole terminals, they support varied wiring setups. The ‘T’ connector allows an inline switch or extra powered output while maintaining IP68 protection. The Inline Connector offers a quick, weatherproof solution for extending or repairing outdoor cables.

2, 3 & 5 way lever connectors

Designed for solid, stranded, or flexible cables, these screwless, spring-clamp connectors need no tools. An inspection window enables quick testing, while transparent housing ensures correct wire positioning. Reusable and supporting 0.2–4mm conductors, they’re ideal for temporary or mobile installs.

The housing on all Unicrimp Q-NECT lever connectors are transparent which means that installers can easily see if the wires inside are positioned correctly to ensure the best possible connection.

Adding value

As electrical systems evolve, the role of cable connections becomes even more critical – and for wholesalers, that means opportunity. Stocking trusted, innovative ranges like Unicrimp Q-Nect helps you serve your customers better, simplify their purchasing decisions, and secure repeat business through reliability and performance.

In the race toward smarter, safer, and more sustainable installations, Unicrimp’s Q-Nect range offers wholesalers a proven way to add value, boost sales, and stay ahead in a competitive market.

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The EDA’s Product Knowledge Modules help businesses like yours create cross-selling and up-selling opportunities by building knowledge and confidence. These training modules have won a Princess Royal Training Award so you can be assured of their value. It’s probably why EDA businesses have taken over 11,200 training modules since launch.

Cables and Cable Management is one of the 12 EDA’s Product Knowledge Modules created to develop the professional knowledge and confidence of your team.

Training in Cables and Cable Management includes:

• Wiring systems
• Telecommunications cables
• Optical fibre cables
• Special cables
• Substandard and counterfeit cables
• Cable fire performance
• Cable management systems
• Cable termination

Online learning through The EDA Academy

All the EDA Product Knowledge Modules are available to study electronically via The EDA Academy, the Association’s e-learning portal. Each training course is delivered through video and interactive learning, but if the original hard copy text book is preferred these are still available.

Talk to the EDA team and ask for a demo of e-learning platform.

Years of knowledge to give your team a commercial edge

City & Guilds accredited, this training programme harnesses decades of combined expertise from product experts at EDA manufacturers and allied trade associations to create an accessible and practical training opportunity for you and your team.

EDA Product Knowledge modules are also approved for Continuing Professional Development by The CPD Certification Service. 

Test your knowledge

Have a go at this quiz sampled from the Cables and Cable Management module. Then check your answers below. If the results show that you need to boost your team’s know-how, talk to the EDA today.

Q1: What are ‘Arctic-grade cables’?
Q2: What does PoE refer to in data cables?
Q3: What is meant by low attenuation?
Q4: What are high-temperature cable conductors made of?
Q5: What percentage mix of aluminium and copper is used in a balanced CCA data cable?
Q6: Give three advantages of non-metallic CMS over their metallic counterparts. 

Scroll down for answers

Answers:

Q1: Cables for use at temperatures down to –25°C
Q2: Power over Ethernet – a means of supplying power to equipment via the data cable.
Q3: Signal loss
Q4: Flexible nickel or silver-plated copper.
Q5: 60%–80% aluminium and 20%–40% copper cladding.
Q6: Reduced weight, corrosion resistance, comparatively simple installation, easy to cut and shape, no earth bonding requirements.

How did you do?

Full marks: Well done.

3 – 5 out of 6: Not bad. Could the EDA training help you to fill in any gaps in your knowledge and help you progress in your career?

Less than 3: The EDA Product Knowledge Programme could be just what you need to boost sales.

Watch the video and download the Course Directory

There’s plenty of information online at www.eda.org.uk, including videos and a downloadable course directory, giving you a summary of what’s covered in each of the 12 training modules.

The EDA team is ready to help. Call 020 3141 7350 or email training@eda.org.uk

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In this month’s Face to Face we speak with Paul Ruddick, Founder CEO of D-Line, and hear about the latest developments in cable management.

Q. What are the origins of D-Line as a UK based manufacturer of cable management solutions?

Back in 2004, I was running an electrical product consultancy based in Newcastle-on-Tyne supplying innovative product mixes for electrical installation projects.

That’s when I recognised the need for ‘design-led’ cable management solutions to provide attractive surface-mounted options for use ‘when time, safety and appearance matter’.

The first range was ‘D-shaped and linear’ mini trunkings, hence the name ‘D-Line’ for the new company.

Q. Are there any specific products that have proved to be particularly popular with installers and electrical wholesalers this year?

D-Line Wrap & Lock Conduit Saddles have become very popular with installers wanting speed, safety and style. They’re approximately 50% faster to install than traditional saddles, fire-rated for regs compliance, and give a uniquely streamlined appearance.

Q. How does D-Line ensure it develops innovative products that stand out in a crowded cable management market?

We only develop products that are ‘quick to install, look great!’ This combo brings best-value and distinct advantages over traditional choices. It has enabled D-Line to pioneer niche leader positions in a global market. 

Q. What are the cable accessories features and trends to look out for over the next few years?

Around the world we are supplying trunkings for fibre-at-home cable installations, and we expect such demands to increase in UK.

Now there’s full market awareness of 18^th Edition requirements for fire-rated cable supports, we see continued growth for our market-leading Safe-D ranges that secure all PVC trunkings, conduits and direct-to-surface cables.

And no doubt higher EV ownership will bring increased demand for D-Line’s Ultra Cable Cover. This provides a use-and-remove inexpensive solution that can facilitate EV-charging in terraced streets.

Q. How does being part of the Luceco Group benefit D-Line?

Working with Luceco sales teams has brought fantastic new possibilities in terms of sales reach and also benefits from partnering with Luceco product development teams. Now we are progressing new opportunities for future innovations.

Q. What are D-Line’s future plans in both the UK and international markets?

From our reputation for innovative cable management we’ll be checking scope to evolve some other traditional-type products. D-Line’s aim is always to provide exciting new options for installers and wholesalers who want to give best-value choices.

Find out more about D-Line here

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Mike Jackson, Sales Director of Unicrimp, looks at the important role the humble cable clip has to play in electrical installations.

In the fast-paced world of electrical installation, precision, safety and efficiency are paramount. While much of the spotlight is placed on conductors, connectors and smart controls, one humble yet essential product continues to hold the line – literally. Cable clips, though often overlooked, play a vital role in the safety, organisation and longevity of wiring systems across residential, commercial and industrial environments.

The unsung hero of cable management

Cable clips are designed to secure cables neatly to walls, ceilings or other surfaces. Available in various sizes, shapes and materials, they prevent wires from sagging, tangling or being damaged due to environmental stress or mechanical strain. From simple plastic nail clips to advanced stainless steel variants with integrated insulation, cable clips are fundamental to maintaining clean and compliant installations.

Regulatory compliance

BS7671 (the IET Wiring Regulations) and recent updates to fire safety regulations have brought renewed focus on cable fixing. Particularly in escape routes, non-metallic clips are no longer acceptable on their own. Installers must now use fire-resistant fixings that prevent cables from collapsing during a fire – a detail that has driven increased demand for metal and hybrid cable clips.

Manufacturers have responded by developing clips with fire-rated anchors and materials tested to withstand extreme temperatures. For example, spring steel saddle clips or metal P-clips are now commonplace in commercial and public sector installations.

Selecting the right cable clip depends on several factors:

• Cable type and diameter
• Mounting surface (plasterboard, brick, steel, etc.)
• Indoor vs outdoor exposure
• Compliance with fire and building codes
• Aesthetic or visibility considerations

A comprehensive offer

Unicrimp offers a comprehensive portfolio of cable accessory products which includes an extensive range of cable clips – indispensable elements in any professional electrician’s toolkit. Unicrimp’s cable clips offer falls within two categories. There is the Q-Crimp range of durable and hardwearing plastic cable clips and the Q-Fire range of 18th Edition compliant fire-rated metal cable clips.

The Q-Crimp cable clips are perfect for organising and securing cables to fixed surfaces like walls, floors or ceilings. Constructed from durable and hardwearing plastic, they include a cable-holding element that typically requires a nail or fixing to attach it to the desired surface. Features include low-temperature flexibility, stress crack resistance, long nails for good pull out value and a self-grip design, making them versatile for any wiring project.

They are available in multiple sizes and colours, such as clear, white, grey and black, and are packaged in quantities of 100. Unicrimp’s Q-Crimp cable clips are also supplied in two handy tradesman tub options – one containing 400 x 1mm T&E Clips and 400 x 2.5mm T&E Clips, and the other containing 200×1-2.5mm Metal Clips, 400 x 1.5mm T&E Clips and 400 x 2.5mm T&E Clips. These robust tradesman tubs feature a resealable plastic lid and carry handle, and the tub itself is manufactured from recycled material.

Unicrimp recently added self-adhesive cable clips to its extensive Q-Crimp cable clips portfolio. These clips are easy to attach, while providing a strong, resistant hold thanks to the 3M adhesive backing. They are ideal for use on metal surfaces, engineering bricks, plastics and any flat, clean surface. They eliminate the need for drilling or nailing, thus saving valuable time on site and their use minimises dust, sparks, vibrations and noise for a safer and more efficient working environment.

Self-adhesive clips are the perfect solution for situations where drilling holes on surfaces is not an option. They will adhere to a wide range of clean flat surfaces, including steel, UPVC, aluminum, glass, RSJs, racking and single-skin structures.

Fire-rated solutions

Unicrimp’s Q-Fire range of fire-rated T&E cable clips are made from zinc-plated carbon steel and come in two sizes – 1-2.5mm and 4-6mm. They are available in red, white, grey and galvanised steel and in a choice of uncoated or with a grey PPA LSF coating. This offers long-term protection for the metal clips and additional safeguarding for the cable during and after the installation.

Cable clips may be small, but their impact on installation quality, safety and regulatory compliance is enormous. As the industry continues to evolve with smarter buildings and tighter standards, the demand for better cable management solutions will only grow. With such an extensive offer available, Unicrimp offers installers access to the widest possible range of fixing solutions that are suitable for a variety applications and environments and will help them comply with the latest wiring regulations.

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It wasn’t that long ago that you’d find expensive cable management systems with cables installed, operational and apparently secured using cheap cable ties rather than cable cleats. Thankfully, things have moved on a great deal since those dangerous days, but there are still plenty of pitfalls to beware of. Lee Frizzell, Technical Director of CMP Products, offers advice on what to consider when specifying and installing cable management products.

From our perspective as a leading manufacturer of cable glands, cleats and accessories, we do have very specific areas of expertise within the cable management arena – namely the operational safety of the system once installed and the delivery of the peace of mind that it won’t cause untold damage in a short circuit situation.

Choices

It is though worth nothing that any element of a cable management system needs to be carefully considered, and products selected and chosen wisely – whether it be a choice between cable ladder or tray; the depth of channel; the chosen product’s weight bearing capacity; the cable formation; corrosion resistant capabilities etc. One wrong choice or the selection of an unproven product made on price alone could undermine an entire system and lead to costly maintenance, repairs and possible catastrophic failure.

When it comes to cable cleats and working with CMP, we always aim to get across the key fact that their importance must never be underestimated. Cable cleats are safety critical products that need to be correctly specified to safely secure electrical cables not only during normal operating conditions, but also ensuring they are able to withstand extreme dynamic electromagnetic forces during a short circuit without sheath damage.

Effective cleating of cables by using a tested, proven product ensures the continuation of potentially vital electrical supplies and prevents cables leaping out of their containment systems during a short circuit, which would pose a very real threat to the building’s integrity and the lives of those in the vicinity of the affected installation.

Put simply, for any electrical installation to be deemed safe, cables need to be protected and restrained by devices proven to withstand the forces the cables generate – especially during a short circuit. This is exactly what our cable cleats are designed and tested to do.

Cleat considerations

There are a variety of things to consider when specifying cable cleats, but two key points that could make all the difference are:

• Trust – There are lots of cable cleats out there and it’s fair to say they can look very similar and claim to have very similar attributes. Therefore, it’s important to specify with confidence. You’d think twice about buying an expensive new phone from an unknown telecoms manufacturer, so don’t do the same with cable cleats. Look at the company behind the product; their technical expertise; the post-sales support they offer; where else have their cleats been used and are any of the installations similar?
• Testing – Will the cable cleats you’re considering be up to the job? Some manufacturers will highlight the strength of their products based solely on a static mechanical tensile test. Unfortunately, this can be misleading as the forces applied in this type of test are applied in a slow and controlled manner, unlike in a short-circuit fault, where dynamic forces are applied almost instantaneously and oscillate in every direction. A short circuit test really is the only reliable way of knowing a cable cleat can withstand a specific set of fault conditions and is essential for anyone, anywhere to specify with confidence.

Trust and testing carry over into cable glands and accessories, where they really should be at the heart of every specification decision.

Also necessary for consideration across the cable management spectrum, are the environment of the installation and fire safety properties of the products. For environmental compatibility, you must consider everything from operating temperatures to UV and corrosion resistance. And when it comes to fire resistance, cable cleats must have the same flame retardancy as the cable they’re securing.

Cable glands

Cable glands require additional consideration due to the issue of electromagnetic interference (EMI) – something that is governed by the EMC 2014/30/EU Directive. This enforces limitations on all electrical and electronic equipment that may cause or be affected by EMI and requires that products must not generate unwanted electromagnetic pollution or interference and that they must be immune to a reasonable amount of noise pollution or interference.

However, there is a significant oversight at the point of cable entry into an electrical enclosure. By adding openings in enclosures, pathways are created to allow noise to breach the shielded enclosure. Unterminated or poorly terminated cable shields can allow noise to be carried into the enclosures, acting as antennas to radiate noise onto sensitive circuits. Grounding the cable shield effectively inside a cable gland at point of entry eliminates a potential noise pathway and reduces the risks of radiated emissions being carried into the enclosure.

Cable glands that employ a robust 360° circumferential termination of the cable screen, shield braid or armour (e.g. with a cone and clamping ring, or a dedicated EMC continuity device) in their metallic body, contribute to the electromagnetic compatibility of installations through reliable low impedance connections. Stats that are backed up by a number of industry studies into the role they can play in EMC protection.

It’s therefore vital that specified cable glands have been tested for attenuation of EMI and provide the protection required. Underspecified cable glands could cause significant issues to the integrity of the electrical systems on which they are fitted.

Proven solutions

When it comes to improving electrical safety, whether it be with the intention of protecting people, power supplies or data, it’s imperative that every potential step is taken to ensure the systems are the most robust they possibly can be. As such, suitably proven cable management products need to be given careful consideration so that they don’t become the weak link in system – causing operational failure and tarnishing reputations.

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Unicrimp has expanded its comprehensive range of Q-Crimp cable management accessories with the launch of pink PVC sleeving.

Cable sleeving is used to insulate and protect wiring, keeping it safe from abrasion and temperature damages, to name a couple of functions. Unicrimp’s new pink PVC sleeving is designed for use in applications where ‘functional’ and ‘protective’ earthing need to be distinctive – a crucial element in order to comply with BS7671 regulations. The standard BS7671:2018+A2 identifies that functional earthing conductors must be identifiable to avoid confusion with other earthing systems. Specifically, it specifies that functional earth conductors should be marked with pink sleeving.

The pink-coloured sleeving should be applied to the conductor’s insulation, making it visibly distinctive from other conductors within the system. This is particularly important in complex systems that incorporate multiple types of earthing, as it helps electricians and engineers quickly identify and correctly handle the functional earth conductors, ensuring safety and efficiency in the installation process.

The new sleeving is available in three sizes – 100M X 2MM, 100M X 3MM and 100M X 4MM.

Unicrimp offers a full range of colour coded PVC sleeving and heat shrink options, including black, grey, brown, blue, and mixed reels.

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Jake Green, Head of Technical Engagement with Scolmore Group, which includes Unicrimp, looks at the role conduit accessories play in cable management systems.

Conduit plays a crucial role in cable management by providing protection, organisation and routing for electrical wiring and cables. Among the key functions of conduit are the following:

Protection – mechanically protecting cables from physical damage, moisture, chemicals and environmental factors. This also reduces the risk of faults, such as short circuits and access to potential live parts.

Organisation – aside from mechanically protecting cables, conduit helps maintain a neat and organised wiring system. This systematic routing of cables prevents clutter and simplifies future maintenance or troubleshooting activities.

Compliance – when selecting the use of a conduit system it is essential that the conduit accessories used are installed correctly to ensure adherence to the relevant electrical standards, which is vital for all types of installations.

Conduit accessories

Conduit accessories play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation, safety and longevity of electrical conduit systems. Unicrimp has recently added a comprehensive collection of conduit accessories to its Q-Crimp product portfolio. The range of conduit fittings and accessories has been designed to offer durability and ease of installation. These essential components not only protect wiring but also enhance the overall efficiency of electrical systems. Conduit accessories ensure that installations comply with safety regulations and standards, such as IET Wiring Regulations. Both indoors and outdoors, whether in commercial buildings, large-scale industrial settings or residential homes, conduit accessories are the unsung heroes that keep everything together and ensure safety.

The range comprises more than 90 individual products in total, with key products including conduit boxes, light gauge saddles, inspection tees, inspection bends and metal hooks.

Conduit boxes – also known as BESA boxes – are designed to protect and route electrical cables within building structures. The new range includes 1-way, 2-way, 3-way, and 4-way conduit boxes, available in a variety of angled, tangent, ‘U’, ‘Y’ and ‘H’ shape configurations.

Light gauge saddles – are designed to wrap securely around conduits, providing precise support for the wiring system. Featuring a BZP (bright zinc plated) coating, these saddles are resistant to rust and oxidation, ensuring long-term durability.

Inspection tees – create a three-way junction with a window for easy cable checking and access.

Inspection bends – allow you to join two pieces of conduit tube for changes in direction (usually 90° or 45° angles) with an inspection window to check/access cables.

Metal hooks – diecast screwed metal hooks are included in the range for suspending cables or light fittings.

Key features and benefits of Unicrimp’s new Q-Crimp conduit accessories:

Cable protection – protecting electrical cables from physical damage, moisture and chemical exposure, ensuring longevity and safety.

Durable materials – manufactured from galvanised steel, they are designed to resist corrosion and environmental stress.

Heat resistance – high-quality conduit accessories can handle high temperatures, making them suitable for industrial and commercial applications.

Ease of installation – innovative designs reduce installation time.

Safety – by securing conduits and providing smooth connections, they help prevent electrical hazards.

Organisation – accessories like saddles and junction boxes contribute to neat, organised wiring systems, making maintenance and upgrades easier.

Compliance – conduit accessories ensure that installations comply with safety regulations and standards, such as IET Wiring Regulations.

Versatility – they can be used in a wide range of environments, from residential to industrial applications, indoors and outdoors.

Quality assurance

As with all Unicrimp products, the new conduit accessories are manufactured in accordance with Scolmore Group’s defined set of criteria and meet the requirements for the market for which they are intended. This is achieved in several ways by utilising recognised third-party test houses to carry out compliance testing and performing regular routine maintenance/inspection of the products and manufacturing facilities.

All products are batch coded for improved traceability and should any issues arise, there is the added reassurance of the back-up of the Scolmore Group technical department.

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Terry Adams, Technical Services Manager at Marshall-Tufflex, outlines how wholesalers can help installers to select the correct cable tray, including considerations such as materials, loading capacities, fire safety requirements and installation methods.

Cable trays are an ideal cable management solution for many applications. In busy commercial environments, cable tray can be used to support and route large quantities of electrical cable in a structured manner. They also provide easy access, allowing cables to be added, removed or re-routed. The perforated construction of cable tray also aids ventilation to help avoid overheating.

There is a wide range of cable tray options available, from smaller, light gauge products ideal for less demanding applications to heavyweight options engineered to support large numbers of cables of increased size and weight. Leading manufacturers will also have an extensive portfolio of components including bends, risers, tee pieces, crosses and lids to meet any installation requirement.

However, there are a number of factors that must be considered to ensure the correct products are selected, especially as this can impact the compliance of the installation with the IET Wiring Regulations.

The right material for the job

The first consideration is the type of cable tray that would be most suitable, and the biggest differentiator is the material. Metal cable tray, typically made from pre-galvanised steel is recommended for interior installations such as data centres, warehouses or commercial retail buildings. Usually available as light, medium or heavy duty gauges, metal cable tray is strong and simple to install. Look for systems that interconnect and bolt together without the need for separate couplers to speed up installation times.

PVC Cable Tray is lightweight and ideally suited for installation into environments where Metal Cable Tray cannot be used due to the corrosive nature of the environment. Suitable applications might be water treatment plants or high humidity environments where a non-corrosive installation is recommended.

For outdoor applications or where the cable management will be exposed to more harsh conditions, Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP) may be the most suitable. GRP products are commonly used on rail, road, marine, industrial and petrochemical projects. This is because GRP products are highly resistant to corrosion, are UV resistant and effective at temperatures between -80 degrees and 130 degrees. GRP is also a low smoke zero halogen (LS0H) material, has excellent fire performance and withstands contact with many common chemicals. As well as being extremely robust, GRP is considerably lighter than aluminium or steel, making it easy to install and move around site.

Contractors working on transport projects, may also be looking for a supplier who are RISQS verified. RISQS is an independent qualification assessment of a supplier’s products and services.

Loading capacities

It is essential that the specified cable tray can support the weight of the cables installed, especially where heavier armoured cable is being used. It is often the case that cable management systems are overloaded with cables, increasing the risk of failure. To ensure the right product is chosen, installers should calculate the number and weight of the cables using information from the cable manufacturers. This figure can then be compared to the safe working load of the cable tray, again available from the manufacturer, to determine which product is required. Similarly, when providing advice on the support system, it is important to also account for the weight of the cable tray itself.

If the installation is likely to be expanded in the future with additional cables, it is worth recommending that installers select a product that provides a higher loading capacity than is currently required. This will ensure it is future-proofed and reduce the overall costs for end clients over the long term as the cable management will not need to be upgraded later at additional cost.

Fire safety

The correct choice of cable management system plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety of the building in the event of a fire and ensuring compliance with the requirements of the 18^th Edition of the Wiring Regulations. Where cable management systems fail due to the heat of a fire, the falling and fallen cables present a serious hazard to those evacuating as well as firefighters moving into and through the building. In fact, there have been a number of cases of firefighters losing their lives when they became caught in the cables and unable to escape.

In response to this hazard, Regulation 521.10.202 of the Wiring Regulations states that all cables should be adequately supported using non-combustible fixings to prevent premature collapse in the event of a fire. This means that cables need to be supported using a material with a melting point of 1000°C for up to 120 minutes.

It is important to note that it requires all cables to be fixed to prevent them falling, rather than just those in escape routes, as was stated in earlier editions of the regulations. Providing they are fixed to a fire-resistant element of the building’s fabric, steel cable trays are an ideal solution to meeting this requirement. The 18^th Edition states that: ‘cables installed in or on steel containment systems are deemed to meet the requirements of this regulation’. This is because, depending on the steel’s composition, it has a melting point of between 1200 and 1500°C.

Where products with a lower melting point are used, such as those manufactured from PVC-U or aluminium, the cables must be securely fixed to the structure of the building using fixings that will not disintegrate in fire. BEAMA has produced guidance on this topic which is referenced by the IET Wiring Regulations. In the ‘Prevention of Premature Collapse: A Guide to the Design, Installation and Inspection of Cable Management Systems’ document, BEAMA provides specific guidelines on maximum distances the cables can move in the event of a failure of the containment. Installers should refer to this guidance to ensure the installation is fully compliant.

Those working in wholesaler branches are ideally placed to help installers select products that will meet the requirement of the current project and ensure the installation is fully compliant with the regulations.

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