Installation for Laying Cables in Cable Track

Guidelines for Safely Installing Cables in Cable Track

The laying of cables in cable tracks has to be done carefully.
In general the following points have to be considered:
•  It is recommended to lay the cables separately, side by side. If cables of different diameters are arranged either side by side or stacked, the use of separators is advised. For large and heavy cables (e.g., 4 x 35 mm²), multi-conductor cables may not be suitable for many applications, and single conductors are preferred.
•  The cables must be able to move within the track. To ensure safety, there should be a free space of at least 10% to 20% of the cable diameter between the cables and the internal dimensions of the cable track.
•  Ensure that the cables pass through the bend radius without being forced. When multiple cable layers are present, adequate clearance must be maintained to allow relative movement between the cables and within the track. Cables must always be able to move freely lengthwise, without any tensile force applied in the bend radius. After a short period of operation, it is recommended to regularly check the cable position, especially for long travel paths, in both the push and pull directions. Additionally, attention should be given to proper installation and minimizing wear.
•  Ensure that cables are laid in the cable track without torsion (non-rotational). To achieve this, cables must be unwound from reels before installation—do not lift cables in loops. Ideally, cables should be taken directly from the drum. The cable imprint cannot be used for torsion-free alignment, as it runs slightly helical around the cable due to manufacturing processes.
•  The weight distribution within the cable track or links must be symmetrical. Heavier cables should be positioned toward the outer edges of the track, while smaller cables should be placed in the center. In the event of a track rupture, all cables must be replaced due to excessive elongation.
•  All cables must be strain-relieved at both the fixed point and the driver, at least at the movable end of the track. For long-track sliding applications, please consult our staff, as no general regulations apply. When clamping cables, ensure only large-surface pressure is applied to the outer jacket to prevent squeezing of conductors and displacement of the cable. Avoid moving the cable up to the fixing point; instead, maintain the maximum possible distance between the final flexion point and the fixing point (typically 10–20 times the cable diameter, considered a relaxation zone).
•  Only cable track-compatible cables should be used. The specified bending radius for SAB Bröckskes cables must be strictly followed. The minimum bending radius values are based on applications at normal temperatures (approximately 20°C). Under specific conditions, different bending radii may be recommended. Choosing a bending radius larger than the minimum requirement can positively impact the cable’s service life.