Solar & EV Charging
potentially expose cabling when bent or routed around corners, whereas newer, divisible conduit options will maintain more mechanical strength and continuous protection of the cabling irrespective of orientation or routing due to their interlocking design.
Intelligent design
to, actual product performance can diff er drastically from manufacturer to manufacturer. Atkore Flexicon has tested a range of fl exible conduit products to provide assurances using the 1000-hour Xenon arc test UL 1660, carried out by the independent Underwriters Laboratories. This enables the company to off er a design life commitment to provide reassurances that is products will not suff er from signifi cant mechanical deterioration due to ultraviolet exposure.
Modularity and fl exibility
Contractors should prioritise cable management solutions that off er fl exibility in confi guration and adaptability to diff erent installation scenarios. Systems with interchangeable components and adjustable features can simplify installation and accommodate changes in cable routing as needed. In addition, built-in cable protection features such as strain relief, cable clamps, and conduit channels can safeguard cables against
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damage from changing environmental factors and potential mechanical stress.
There are a variety of retrofi t cable protection systems available such as slit conduit options, which enable installers to wrap the conduit around the existing cabling to avoid disruption – an ideal solution where cable protection needs replacing or upgrading to a UV-resistant alternative. However, it is important to ensure that the choice of fl exible conduit system continues to off er the appropriate levels of protection for the environment and does not leave any areas of cabling or the installation exposed.
Divisible conduits, such as the Flexicon FPADS range, allow existing cabling to be inserted laterally via a slit opening. This product consists of two open conduit profi les, which then interlock to form a protected IP40 system around the cables.
It is also important to consider the cable routing. Traditional split conduit options can
The shelter of vital electrical equipment components such as inverters or battery storage must be considered. New modular solar shelters, such as the Atkore Unistrut PV Shelter, now available on the market, can off er an ideal solution to providing additional protection from harsh weather elements for equipment located outside. Such systems provide a simple solution for the location and mounting of products outside, off ering a physical barrier from the sun’s damaging rays. These systems off er fl exibility for mounting and fi xing solar Installation equipment and are ideal for rooftops or can be mounted to external walls. This can help to free up valuable inside space within buildings, increase effi ciencies of equipment, reduce noise levels and help to mitigate the risk of fi re hazards. Additionally, ordered as a simple kit of parts using one part code, these systems off er simplicity and rapid installation to save installers time on the job.
Careful planning of cable management and protection in solar PV applications will soon pay dividends, enabling an effi cient and resilient installation that can withstand the rigours of the changing environment for years to come.
April 2024 electrical wholesaler | 21
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