How to choose the best trunking system for your specification needs

When designing modern commercial spaces, selecting the best trunking system is a critical decision that impacts both functionality and aesthetics of your cable management infrastructure. As buildings become increasingly connected, the need for efficient, adaptable, and visually appealing cable management solutions has never been more important.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key considerations for specifiers in the commercial sector when selecting cable management systems. From understanding different trunking types to evaluating material choices, this article will provide you with the essential knowledge needed to make informed decisions for your projects.

Types of trunking systems for commercial environments

Cable management solutions come in various forms, each designed to address specific requirements in commercial settings. When considering your options, it’s important to understand the fundamental differences between them.

Flush floor trunking systems

Flush floor trunking is installed within or on top of screed and sits level with the finished floor surface. This cable management approach offers a seamless appearance while providing excellent accessibility for maintenance. Particularly suitable for open-plan offices, these systems integrate perfectly with floor boxes and can be covered with the same flooring material as the surrounding area for an unobtrusive finish.

In-screed underfloor trunking

For projects where cabling infrastructure needs to be completely concealed, in-screed trunking offers an excellent solution. This system is buried within the screed itself, providing protection for cables while remaining completely hidden from view. When paired with appropriate floor boxes, in-screed trunking creates a clean aesthetic while maintaining access points where needed.

Perimeter trunking

Our stylish skirting and dado trunking solutions cater to diverse sectors and applications. Available in various sizes, these perimeter trunking systems feature 2 or 3 compartments and come in multiple profiles. The movable lids enable flexible placement of service outlet components as needed.

Key specification considerations for trunking selection

Material choices and environmental factors

When specifying the optimal trunking solution for your project, material selection plays a pivotal role in both performance and longevity

Metal trunking systems

Metal trunking provides superior strength, durability and fire resistance compared to alternative materials. Our metal cable management solutions meet UKCA and EU standards, ensuring compliance with relevant safety regulations. The robust nature of metal trunking also offers enhanced protection for sensitive data cables in high-traffic commercial environments.

Material considerations for specific environments

Different commercial settings may require specific material properties. For example:

• High-moisture areas may benefit from galvanised steel options
• Environments with specific aesthetic requirements might call for powder-coated finishes for trunking fitted on walls and above flooring
• Areas with heavy foot traffic need solutions with appropriate load ratings

Capacity planning and future-proofing

One of the most critical aspects of selecting the right cable management system is ensuring it can accommodate both current and future requirements. Begin by calculating the total cable volume needed for your current specification, including power, data, and any specialist cabling requirements. Then, apply a future-proofing factor of at least 25-30% additional capacity to accommodate growth and technological changes.

Modern commercial environments typically require clear separation between different cable types. Ensure your selected trunking system offers appropriate compartments for segregating power from data cables, helping maintain signal integrity and compliance with regulations.

Integration with Floor Box Systems

The effectiveness of your underfloor trunking installation is significantly enhanced when properly integrated with appropriate floor boxes. When specifying your trunking system, ensure it’s fully compatible with your chosen floor boxes. This creates a seamless infrastructure that simplifies both installation and future maintenance.

At Cableduct, our floor boxes are designed to work in harmony with our trunking systems, creating a comprehensive cable management solution.

Access Point Planning

Strategic placement of floor boxes along your trunking routes is essential for creating a practical and user-friendly system. Consider these points for the most convenient layout:

• The typical workstation layout and density
• Meeting room configurations and technology requirements
• Communal areas where power and data access may be needed
• Future flexibility for workspace reconfiguration

Regulatory Compliance and Industry Standards

Any commercial cable management system must adhere to relevant regulations and standards. Metal trunking systems must comply with current regulations and our products meet UKCA and EU standards, providing peace of mind for specifiers and end-users alike.

Key safety standards to consider include:

• BS7671 – UK’s national standard for electrical and electrical wiring systems installation
• CE Marking – EU standards for safety, health, and environmental protection
• BSI – British standards for cable management

Aesthetic considerations for visible components

While much of your trunking system may be concealed within or beneath the floor, visible components like floor boxes should complement your overall design scheme. Consider how visible elements will integrate with your interior design concept. Options might include:

• Brass or stainless steel finish for premium environments
• Powder-coated finish in complementary colours
• Floor boxes with recessed lids to accommodate the surrounding floor covering

Conclusion

Selecting the best trunking system for your commercial specification requires careful consideration of numerous factors, from practical capacity planning to aesthetic integration. By thoroughly evaluating your project’s specific requirements against the options available, you can specify a cable management solution that delivers both outstanding performance and visual appeal.

Remember that a well-designed trunking system should not only meet today’s needs but also accommodate future changes in technology and workspace configuration. By partnering with established manufacturers like Cableduct, you can access products designed with these considerations in mind, along with the technical support needed to make informed specification decisions.

For more information on how our floor boxes and cable management solutions can meet your specification requirements, please explore our product range or contact our technical team for personalised advice. Call us on 020 8683 1126 or send us a message online and we’ll get back to you as quickly as possible.