Protect Power Cables During Short Circuits with Panduit Cable Cleats
During a short circuit, fault current can create powerful electromechanical forces in a fraction of a second. These forces may cause unsecured power cables to move violently, damaging cable trays, insulation, nearby equipment, and other infrastructure before protective devices interrupt the circuit.
Cable cleats are restraint devices that secure power cables and limit dangerous movement caused by the electromechanical forces of a short circuit. Panduit cable cleats contain cables during short circuit events, limiting movement and helping reduce the risk of costly equipment damage or personnel injury. Panduit evaluates its cable cleats using engineering simulations and live short-circuit testing at an independent ISO/IEC 17025-accredited facility.
Available in clamp and strap styles, the Panduit portfolio supports several cable arrangements, mounting systems, and installation environments.
What to Consider when Selecting Cable Cleats
Choosing the right cable cleat depends on more than cable size. Important application details include:
- Peak short-circuit current
- Cable outside diameter
- Single, trefoil, quad, or multicore configuration
- Cable tray, ladder rack, wall, or other mounting system
- Indoor, outdoor, corrosive, or harsh-environment conditions
- Required cleat spacing and installation accessories
The Panduit Cleat kAlculator™ uses application details such as cable dimensions, layout, and fault current to recommend cleats, spacing, mounting hardware, accessories, and installation tools.
Understanding Cable Cleat Types and Configurations
- Single cable cleats: Restrain one cable at each attachment point.
- Trefoil cable cleats: Secure three single-conductor cables in a triangular arrangement.
- Quad cable cleats: Secure four cables as a grouped configuration.
- Strap-style cleats: Accommodate multiple sizes and arrangements while supporting higher cable density.
- Clamp-style cleats: Provide a fixed mechanical restraint and may be installed without a specialized tensioning tool.
These options allow Panduit cable cleats to support power distribution systems in data centers, oil and gas facilities, manufacturing plants, utilities, renewable energy projects, and other environments where cable movement during a fault could threaten people or critical equipment.
Additional Resources
Questions or Requests
Looking for short circuit protection? Contact your account manager at The Reynolds Company to review your application requirements and identify the Panduit cable cleat solution suited to your cable arrangement, mounting system, and operating environment.