Section 9

Specification and Installation Guide

Cable Capacity
To comply with the Wiring Regulations the installer must ensure that the
trunking is not overfilled and unacceptable pressure is applied to the
cables.
In order to do this the installer should not exceed the 45% space factor
given in the Regs.
The 45% space factor means that the total cross sectional area of all
the cables must not be greater than 45% of the cross sectional area of
the trunking.
This figure is for trunking with a removable lid permitting continuous
access to the trunk body. Where cables might have to be pulled thru’
rather than laid in a particular section of trunking, or where cable have
to cross each other, the space factor should be reduced accordingly.

CAPACITY TABLES
For each cable being used obtain the appropriate factor from the table
below. Add all these cable factors together, and then compare this total
Dimensions of
with table on the right.
trunking
The minimum size of trunking that can be used is that size having a
Factor mm x mm
factor equal to, or greater than total of all the cable factors.
1037 50 x 50
2371 75 x 75
Conductor PVC Thermosetting 2091 100 x 50
Type of Cross-sectional BS6004 BS7211 3189 100 x 75
conductor area mm Cable Factor Cable Factor 4252 100 x 100
3091 150 x 50
Solid 1.5 8.0 8.6 4743 150 x 75
2.5 11.9 11.9 6394 150 x 100
9697 150 x 150
Stranded 1.5 8.6 8.6 4671 225 x 50
2.5 12.6 13.9 7167 225 x 75
4 16.6 18.1 9662 225 x 100
6 21.2 22.9 14652 225 x 150
10 35.3 36.3 6251 300 x 50
16 47.8 50.3 9590 300 x 75
25 73.9 75.4 12929 300 x 100
19607 300 x 150

Floor trunking with service outlets presents particular difficulties for sizing to contain the required
cables. The diagram below shows a 330mm x 60mm trunking with a service outlet complete with
power and data sockets. The resultant available cabling space is shown shaded. In many instances
it is worthwhile obtaining a sample of the trunking and outlet to be installed, so that a larger trunk can
be obtained before the installation commences.

37mm
60mm 13A Section 9
Specification and Installation Guide
Cable Segregation
In a system where mains voltage cables and lower
voltage data and telecoms cables are used in close
proximity, correct segregation of the different services
is vital.

The Wiring Regulations require segregation where theMains voltage can create interference for, and
cable systems have different operating voltages and disrupt the correct operation of, data cables.
different levels of cable insulation. and fire alarm and emergency lighting cables.

It is a straightforward matter to provide segregation Segregation by distance or else by an approved form

within the trunking lengths. A vertical separator is of mechanical separation.
provided between compartments, it completely seals
the compartments from each other between the base The On Site Guide to the Wiring Regulations gives
and the underside of the lid. It is also usually welded tothe minimum acceptable distances and forms of
the body so there is excellent earth continuity through mechanical separation.
the separator.
Tables 7.3A and 7.3B define the separation
Where the trunking runs change direction with a tee orrequirements for power and data cables installed in
a fourway cross, the fitting will be supplied with a floor systems.
crossover bridge arrangement.
Table 7.4 defines the separation requirements for
other circuits and Fire Alarm and Emergency
Lighting circuits.

This crossover bridge will be supplied loose so that

cables can be laid into the trunking rather than drawn
through the crossover bridge. It is important that this
crossover is fitted into position before the system is
made live, and the crossover must be properly earthed.

It should also be noted that crossover bridges reduce

the possible cabling area by 50%.

Section 9
Specification and Installation Guide
Installation