Conduits vs Cable Trunking 

Conduit Overview

Conduit Types 

Conduits are available in various types, including hot-dipped galvanised (HDG) steel, pre-galvanised steel, PVC and other materials. The ideal choice depends on the installation environment. Pre-galvanised steel is best suited for indoor applications, while HDG offers greater durability for outdoor and harsh industrial conditions. HDG and pre-galvanised options are both versatile choices, making them suitable for residential, commercial and industrial use. 

Advantages of Conduits

There are many advantages to utilising conduits for managing, protecting and routing wires. This includes: 

• Protects wires from moisture damage 
• Extends the longevity of wiring 
• Organised and neat aesthetic for an improved appearance 
• Helps maintain cable integrity 
• Routes and guides cables efficiently 
• Shields from physical impact and abrasion 

Conduit Uses 

Depending on the material selected, a conduit can be used in a wide range of environments. A common application is indoors, where electrical wiring needs protection from chemicals, physical contact and to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Conduits are also suitable for outdoor and underground use, offering robust protection for wiring. In addition, they are widely used in commercial settings to distribute electrical power efficiently. 

Conduit Materials

Hot-dipped galvanised (HDG) steel and pre-galvanised steel are the most commonly used materials for conduits as they’re versatile, robust and capable of withstanding various environmental conditions. 

Cable Trunking Overview 

Cable trunking is designed to keep installations simple, secure and protected from various elements. Typically made from steel, its protective casing houses cables and wires, creating an organised and safe environment. Along with safeguarding wires, it improves a building’s aesthetic appearance by concealing cables. 

Cable Trunking Types 

Our range of cable trunking solutions is designed to cover all your cable management requirements, including standard straight trunking, bend, tee and intersection units, as well as reducers, couplers, end caps and lids. 

Advantages of Cable Trunking 

Cable trunking offers many advantages for cable management, such as: 

• Improved accessibility 
• Easier maintenance and repairs 
• Extends the lifespan of wiring 
• Protects wires from dust, debris and moisture 
• Various fixings available to improve scalability and flexibility 
• Prevents interference from electrical signals 

Cable Trunking Uses

Cable trunking is widely used in commercial and industrial settings to efficiently route, protect and organise cable wires across extensive areas. It can help serve a variety of purposes, including separating power and low-voltage cables, providing a neat cable layout and protecting wiring in harsh environments prone to dust, moisture and heat.  

Cable Trunking Materials 

Cable trunking is made from pre-galvanised steel. This means the steel underwent a process where it was coated with zinc before fabrication to enhance its protective properties and make it resistant to corrosion.  

Conduit vs Cable Trunking: Key Differences

Still deciding between conduit vs trunking? While both solutions enhance cable management, there are some notable differences.  

Installation 

One of the most notable differences between conduit vs trunking is where they’re installed. Cable trunking is commonly installed in office environments, data centres and industrial settings. While conduits are used by small businesses, residential properties and other applications where wiring changes are infrequent.  

Appearance  

Conduits blend into their surroundings better, as they are typically concealed within walls, ceilings or floors. Cable trunking is a more visible cable management system and is usually surface mounted, making it more visible within a space.  

Cable Types 

Both can safely house and route different cable types but their suitability depends widely on the intended application. For example, power cables may benefit more from trunking, as it’s more accessible in case you need to conduct repairs or maintenance. Conduits are more common for smaller cable bundles that require high levels of protection.  

Accessibility

Between cable trunking and conduits, trunking is considered more accessible due to its design and installation. With cable trunking, it’s easier to inspect, add or replace cable without having to dismantle walls or ceilings.  

Compliance  

In terms of compliance, both help keep commercial and industrial environments compliant with electrical safety regulations. However, trunking is more common where accessibility is a priority and conduits are considered more favourable in areas that may experience frequent moisture. 

Conclusion 

Cable trunking and conduits are both excellent choices for cable management and protection. The ideal choice will come down to application, setting and performance requirements. In industrial environments that require frequent access, trunking is preferred. For residential and outdoor areas where protection is essential, conduits are ideal. 

Conduits and Cable Trunking With Lenson Select 

Still having trouble deciding between cable trunking vs conduits? Contact us with any enquiries and our expert team can assist you. Looking to order conduits, trunking or other fixings? Call us on 0121 553 6699 or email us at sales@lenson-select.co.uk.