Trunking
/TRUNK-ing/
Also known as: cable trunking, cable management trunking, dado trunking, skirting trunking, metal trunking
Definition
A cable management system consisting of rigid plastic or metal ducting with a removable lid, used to route and protect electrical cables along walls, ceilings, or floors. Trunking keeps cables neat, accessible, and protected from damage, and can segregate power and data cables.
In Practice
Trunking is available in various profiles: mini trunking for small surface-mounted runs, dado trunking integrated at dado rail height with separate compartments for power and data, and skirting trunking built into the skirting board profile. Metal trunking is used in commercial and industrial settings where mechanical protection is required. Cables must not be overfilled as current rating derating applies when cables are grouped.
UK Building Regulations
BS 7671 - Requirements for Electrical Installations
BS 7671 requires that cable current ratings are derated when cables are grouped together in trunking. Power and telecommunications cables should be run in separate compartments.
See Also