Theme: Installation methods

Introduction

An installation method defines the way in which electrical cables are installed in a building, an

infrastructure, or an outdoor space. It describes the method and specific conditions of the installation,

including the type of support (wall, floor, ceiling), the level of protection (ducts, ducts, buried, etc.), and the

accessibility of the cables.

1- Definition of an installation method

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2- Coding of installation methods
In electrical installation, the methods of laying pipes are classified into nine categories by the international

standard (in particular according to the IEC 60364 standard and the French standard NF C 15-100). These

classes define the way in which cables are installed taking into account protection and the environment, in

order to guarantee the safety and efficiency of the installations. Here are the nine classes of installation

methods:

Therefore, each installation method is designated by two numbers, the first corresponding to the class and
the second to the different variants within the same class.

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2-1 Installation under conduits
Cables are installed inside conduits (rigid or flexible tubes) for additional protection. This type of installation
is commonly used in residential, commercial and industrial buildings to ensure the safety of cables against
external aggressions (impacts, humidity, dust) and to facilitate maintenance and modification of installations.

1. Types of ducts

 Rigid conduits: generally made of PVC, galvanized steel or metal, suitable for recessed or exposed
installations in environments exposed to mechanical risks.
 Flexible conduits: Made of flexible plastic or metal, these conduits adapt to complex paths and are
used in tight spaces or to follow the curves of walls or partitions.
 ICTA ducts: insulating, flexible and corrugated, they are widely used in installations embedded in
partitions and under the floor.

2. Applications of under-duct installation

 Recessed installation: The conduits are integrated into the walls, ceiling or floor, then covered with
a finish (plaster, tiles, etc.). This type of installation is ideal for a discreet installation and is often
used in residential buildings.
 Exposed installation: The conduits are installed on the surface of walls, ceilings or on the floor.
This installation method is frequently used in technical rooms, workshops and industrial installations.
 Installation in false ceiling or false floor: The conduits are installed in technical spaces above the
ceiling or under the floor, which allows easy access to the cables for future work.

3. Avantages of installation under conduit

 Cable Protection: Conduits protect cables from mechanical shock, moisture, dust and abrasion
hazards.
 Ease of maintenance and modification: Cables can be replaced or added easily by pulling the wires
through the conduits, making modifications less complex.
 Compliance with standards: Installation under conduit is often necessary to comply with safety
standards, particularly in sensitive environments such as public, industrial and commercial buildings.

4. Disadvantages of installing under conduit

 Cost and complexity: Installing conduits is more expensive and complex than other types of
installation, especially for recessed installations.
 Aesthetics: When exposed, conduits can be unsightly in environments where visual integration is
important.

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5. Regulatory requirements

 In France, the NF C 15-100 standard imposes rules for installation under conduit, in particular with
regard to the safety distance from other pipes, the types of conduits to be used depending on the
environment, and protection against fire.

2-2 Laying in the open air

Open-air installation refers to a method of installing electrical conduits where the cables are installed
without direct protection (such as conduit or trunking) and are exposed to the air. This technique is mainly
used in industrial, commercial or some outdoor installations, where the cables must be easily accessible for
maintenance operations.

Characteristics of Open Air Installation

1. Ductless installation:
o The cables are fixed directly to the supports (walls, ceilings, metal structures) without being
placed in conduits. They can be suspended or laid on cable trays.
2. Cable trays and ladders :
o In industrial or commercial installations, cables are often laid on metal or plastic cable trays
or ladders. This allows cables to be grouped together while still being easily accessible.
3. Cable fixing :
o Cables can be secured directly with clamps or ties, to keep them in place. This fixation must
be robust to withstand vibrations, especially in industrial environments.
4. Accessibility :
o Laying cables in the open air makes them accessible, which facilitates maintenance,
inspections, and modifications to the electrical installation.

Advantages of Open Air Installation

 Accessibility and maintenance : Since cables are visible, it is easy to inspect them, add new cables
or make repairs.
 Natural cooling : Cables exposed to air can benefit from better cooling, which can be beneficial for
power cables.
 Speed of installation : Outdoor installation is often quicker to set up because it does not require any
embedding work or the installation of conduits.

Disadvantages of Open Air Installation

 Exposure to the elements : Outdoors, cables laid in the open air can be exposed to the elements, UV
rays, temperature variations, humidity, and even physical attacks, which can reduce their lifespan.

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  Reduced protection : Cables are more vulnerable to mechanical shock, vibration and abrasion,
especially in industrial environments.
 Aesthetics : Open-air installation is not ideal in residential or commercial buildings where visual
appearance is important.

Applications of Open Air Laying

 Industrial environments : Used in factories and workshops to facilitate maintenance and inspection
operations.
 Technical rooms : In areas such as electrical rooms, substations, and server rooms, where aesthetics
are secondary to accessibility.
 Outdoor installations : Used for some outdoor installations, although in this case the cables must be
chosen for their resistance to climatic conditions.

Regulatory Requirements

The NF C 15-100 standard in France and other international standards such as IEC 60364 impose certain
rules for installation in the open air:

 Cables must be suitable to withstand environmental conditions (anti-UV cables, high temperature
resistant, etc.).
 The fixing must be solid and space the cables adequately to avoid thermal overloads.
 Minimum distances must be respected to avoid interference or short circuit risks.

In summary, outdoor installation is a practical and often economical solution, although it requires careful
selection of cables and fixing methods to ensure a safe and durable installation.

2-3 Installation under ducts

Cables are placed inside trunking, rigid and often rectangular conduits, installed apparently along walls,
ceilings or skirting boards . The trunking protects the cables while making them easily accessible. This type
of installation is commonly used in residential, commercial and tertiary buildings, because it offers both
good protection and an aesthetic appearance.

Features of the Installation under Gutters

1. Type of chutes :
o PVC trunking : The most common, they are resistant, insulating and available in various
sizes and shapes (square, rectangular or corner trunking).
o Metal Ducts : Used in environments where greater mechanical protection or grounding is
required, such as industrial environments.

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 o Skirting boards-ducts: Integrated into the skirting boards along the walls, they allow
discreet installation in rooms without taking up space on the walls.
2. Cable access:
o Cable ducts often have a removable cover that allows the conduit to be easily opened to add,
remove or repair cables. This makes under-cable installation ideal for scalable installations.
3. Fixing:
o Cable ducts are attached directly to the wall, ceiling or floor with screws or anchors. Some
cable ducts are also self-adhesive for faster installation on flat surfaces.
4. Aesthetic:
o The installation under ducts is more aesthetic than the installation in the open air, because it
hides the cables. The ducts are available in different colors (white, gray, black) to adapt to the
interior decoration.

Advantages of Installation under Gutters

 Cable Protection: Cable ducts protect cables from impact, dust and moisture, making them more
durable.
 Easy maintenance and modification: Cables can be added or removed easily without major works,
which is convenient for constantly changing buildings.
 Aesthetics: Unlike exposed cables, cable ducts offer a more orderly and discreet appearance.

Disadvantages of Laying Under Gutters

 Less discreet than recessed installation: Although the trunking is aesthetic, it remains visible on
the walls or ceiling, which may not be suitable for all environments.
 Cost: Good quality trunking and its installation can be expensive, especially if it covers a large area.
 Capacity Limits: Ducts have a limited capacity depending on their size, so make sure you choose a
size that is appropriate for the amount of cable needed.

Applications of Laying under Gutters

 Offices and commercial premises: Cable routing is commonly used in offices to distribute
computer, telephone and electrical cables along walls or desks.
 Residential buildings: It is also suitable for houses and apartments, especially for additional
installations or renovations.
 Schools, hospitals and public spaces: Used to secure cables while facilitating access for
maintenance.

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Regulatory Requirements

Installations under ducts must comply with certain safety standards, in particular the NF C 15-100 standard
in France. Among the rules to be respected:

 Choice of chutes: The chutes must comply with current standards, withstand environmental
conditions and guarantee adequate mechanical protection.
 Circuit separation: In ducts that contain several types of cables (electrical, telecoms, etc.), the
circuits must be separated by partitions to avoid interference.
 Secure fixing: The chutes must be securely fixed and respect the safety distances from other
equipment and passages.

In summary, installation under ducts is a practical, aesthetic and safe solution for protecting cables while
allowing easy access for maintenance and modifications.

2-4 Installation in the construction void

Void routing is a method of installing electrical conduits where the cables are passed through hollow spaces
built into the building structures, such as partitions, false ceilings, false floors or service ducts. This type of
routing is widely used for electrical installations in modern buildings, as it allows the cables to be concealed
while protecting them.

Features of the Installation in the Construction Void

1. Use of spaces empty:

o Cables are placed in hollow partitions (e.g. plasterboard walls) or in suspended ceilings or
raised floors.
o This allows you to hide the cables without having to carry out major embedding work.
2. Cable protection:
o The cables are not directly exposed, but are protected by the structure itself. Generally, they
are installed without conduits in these voids, although in some cases ICTA (flexible and
insulating) sheaths are used for additional protection.
3. Access restricted:
o Although the cables are concealed, they are often accessible for work by opening false
ceilings or partitions, which facilitates modifications and maintenance.

Advantages of laying in the construction void

 Aesthetics: The cables are completely invisible, which guarantees a clean and tidy look for interiors,
without the appearance of trunking or conduits.
 Ease of installation and modification: Construction voids allow for quick and discreet cable
installation, and false ceilings/floors facilitate modifications without heavy work.

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  Thermal and mechanical protection: Cables are protected by the building structure, reducing the
risk of physical damage.

Disadvantages of Laying in the Construction Void

 Sometimes limited access: In hollow partitions, access can be difficult without having to partially
dismantle the partition, which makes repairs more complex.
 Heat build-up hazards: In closed spaces without ventilation, heat can build up, especially if several
power cables are grouped together. It is then necessary to properly size the cables to avoid
overheating.
 Difficulty adding cables: In some cases, it can be complex to add cables once the structures are
installed, especially in partitions.

Applications of Laying in the Construction Void

 Residential buildings: Used in modern houses and apartments for concealed installations, for
example in walls or under floors.
 Offices and tertiary premises: False floors and false ceilings are common in offices, facilitating the
passage of cables for network, electrical and air conditioning installations.
 Commercial and public spaces: This method is frequently used to maintain a clean environment
while allowing for many technical installations.

Regulatory Requirements

Installations in building voids must comply with specific standards, in particular the NF C 15-100 standard
in France, which governs electrical installations in buildings:

 Cable protection: Cables must be suitable for the environmental conditions in the construction
spaces (temperature resistance, protection against fire risks).
 Cable separation: Cables of different types (power, data) should be separated to avoid interference.
 Access and ventilation: It is recommended that building voids are accessible for maintenance and, if
necessary, ventilated to prevent overheating.

In summary

Void routing is a discreet and practical solution for installing electrical cables and networks in a building. It
allows cables to be concealed while providing some protection, although precautions are necessary to ensure
the safety and efficiency of the installations.

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2-5 Buried installation

Burial installation is a method of installing electrical cables underground, often used for outdoor electrical
distribution networks, such as connections between a building and a meter, public lighting networks, or
power supplies to isolated structures (shelters, charging stations, etc.). This technique protects the cables
from weather and physical damage, while ensuring safety by keeping the cables away from accessible areas.

Characteristics of Buried Installation

1. Direct burial or in ducts:

o Direct burial: Cables are laid directly into the ground, often surrounded by protective
material (sand or gravel) to prevent damage.
o Duct installation: The cables are placed in protective sheaths (PVC or HDPE pipes) buried
in the ground. This solution facilitates maintenance and the possible addition of cables.
2. Depth of burial:
o The minimum depth is usually specified by safety standards, often around 50 to 85 cm for
low voltage cables, and deeper for high voltage cables.
o This depth may vary depending on local rules and the type of soil or surface (green space,
vehicle passage, etc.).
3. Cable signaling:
o To signal the presence of cables, colored warning nets are placed above the cables, in order to
alert workers in the event of earthworks.
4. Mechanical protection additional:
o In risk areas (roads, pedestrian areas), additional mechanical protections, such as concrete
plates or reinforced sheaths, can be added to prevent damage related to pressure or vibrations.

Advantages of Buried Installation

 Protection against weather and physical damage: Cables are protected from shock, UV, weather
conditions, and human intervention, which extends their lifespan.
 Aesthetics and discretion: The buried installation is invisible, which makes it ideal for exterior
installations without visual impact.
 Increased safety: By keeping cables away from accessible areas, this method limits the risks of
electrocution and short circuits caused by involuntary handling.

Disadvantages of Buried Installation

Difficult maintenance: In the event of a breakdown or need for modification, locating and repairing cables
can be costly and complex, requiring earthworks.

 High initial cost: Digging, protecting and signaling cables requires specialized equipment and labor,
which increases the initial cost.

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  Dependence on soil conditions: Certain types of soil (rocky, wet) can complicate installation and
require additional protection.

Applications of Buried Installation

 Outdoor electrical distribution networks: Used for underground electrical networks between
transformer stations and homes or commercial buildings.
 Building power supply: Ideal for discreetly connecting remote buildings (individual houses, garden
sheds, technical rooms) without overhead installation.
 Public lighting and green spaces: Used to power street lighting, parks and outdoor leisure facilities.

Regulatory Requirements

Underground installation is governed by strict standards, in particular:

 Depth and signaling: The standard impose a minimum depth to limit the risk of damage during
future earthworks, as well as the installation of a warning net.
 Protection and insulation: Cables must be designed to withstand ground conditions (humidity,
corrosion). The sheath or the cables themselves must be waterproof and resistant to chemical and
mechanical attacks.
 Safety distance: Buried electrical cables must be installed at a minimum distance from other pipes
(water, gas, telecommunications) to avoid interference and facilitate identification of the pipes.

In summary

Buried installation is a reliable and discreet method for installing outdoor electrical cables. Although it
requires a higher initial investment and is more complex to maintain, it offers advantages in terms of safety,
protection and aesthetics.

2-6 Direct recessed installation

Direct flush installation is a method of installing electrical cables in which the cables are directly
embedded in the walls, ceilings or floors of the building. The cables are usually inserted into channels,
covered by building materials (plaster, render) once installed, and are therefore invisible once the work is
completed. This method is common in residential and commercial buildings to ensure a discreet electrical
installation.

Features of Direct Recessed Installation

1. Creation of bleedings:
o Channels (grooves in the wall, floor or ceiling) are made in the masonry or concrete to
accommodate the cables.

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 o The depth and width of the chases must be carefully calculated to avoid weakening the walls
and to allow complete coverage of the cables.
2. Use of sheaths:
o Although the installation is embedded directly into the wall, the cables are often passed
through ICTA conduits (corrugated and flexible insulating conduits) for additional protection,
also facilitating the replacement of the cables without having to dismantle the wall.
o These sheaths also allow compliance with electrical safety standards.
3. Recovery:
o After laying the cables and conduits, the groove is filled with a construction material (plaster,
cement, coating), so that the cables are completely integrated into the wall.

Advantages of Direct Recessed Installation

 Aesthetics: The cables are completely invisible, allowing for a clean and tidy finish with no visible
cables.
 Protection: The embedded cables are well protected against external mechanical attacks and the risk
of wear.
 Space saving: Unlike installation under a duct or on the surface, recessed installation does not take
up visible space and does not interfere with furniture or decoration.

Disadvantages of Direct Recessed Installation

 Complex and dusty work: Creating grooves in walls requires masonry work and produces a lot of
dust, which can be restrictive in buildings that are already occupied.
 Difficult maintenance: Access to embedded cables is difficult after installation, sometimes requiring
re-cutting to access the cables in the event of a breakdown or modification.
 Cost: Direct flush installation can be more expensive than other installation methods, due to the
labor required and materials to fill in the grooves.

Applications of Direct Recessed Installation

 Residential buildings: Used in houses and apartments for a discreet and aesthetic installation,
particularly in living rooms.
 Offices and commercial spaces: In offices or businesses where the aesthetics and cleanliness of the
installation are essential.
 Technical rooms: It can also be used in technical rooms where it is necessary to protect cables
against mechanical wear.

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Regulatory Requirements

Recessed installations are governed by standard NF C 15-100 in France:

 Safety distance: Embedded cables must maintain certain distances from wall edges, floors and other
pipes to avoid interference and simplify their location.
 Cable protection: The use of conduits is generally required to ensure adequate protection of cables,
particularly for power circuits.
 Signaling: In some cases, signaling of embedded circuits is necessary to avoid drilling into cables
during subsequent work.

In summary

Direct flush-mounting is an ideal solution for aesthetic and secure electrical installations, although the
installation is more complex and access to the cables is limited once the walls are closed. It is mainly used
for permanent installations in homes and commercial premises where appearance is essential.

2-7 Gutter installation

Cable troughing is a method of installing electrical cables where the cables are placed in specially designed
conduits for technical installations, often located at ground level or embedded in it. The conduits provide
significant mechanical protection while allowing easy access to the cables for modifications or maintenance.
This method is widely used in industrial, commercial buildings and sometimes in public spaces.

Features of Gutter Installation

1. Structure of the gutters:

o Channels are linear conduits made of concrete, metal or PVC, with a removable cover. They
can be open (with an easy-to-remove cover) or closed, depending on the level of protection
desired.
o The gutters are installed at ground level or embedded in it, for a practical and aesthetic aspect.
2. Cable accessibility:
o The removable cover allows direct access to cables for modifications, inspections or
maintenance, without the need for masonry work.
o Cables can be organized and separated easily inside the channels, facilitating the management
of circuits and different types of cables (power, data, etc.).
3. Managing large quantities of cables:
o Cable ducts can hold many cables, which is convenient for complex installations requiring
multiple circuits (such as in factories, shopping malls, or offices).

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Advantages of Gutter Installation

 Easy Accessibility and Maintenance: The removable cover allows easy access to cables, making
maintenance, additions or modifications quick and economical.
 Cable Protection: Cable ducts protect cables from impact and wear, especially in high traffic
environments (human or vehicle) such as warehouses or factories.
 Circuit organization: Cables can be ordered and separated in the channel, making it easier to
manage different electrical installations and prevent interference.

Disadvantages of Gutter Installation

 Installation Cost: Constructing and installing gutters, especially if they are embedded in the ground,
can be expensive in terms of labor and materials.
 Cleanliness and regular maintenance: In dusty or humid environments, gutters can accumulate
debris or water, requiring regular cleaning.
 Aesthetic impact: Although gutters are practical, they may not be suitable for environments where
visual appeal is a priority, such as high-end offices or residential spaces.

Applications of Gutter Installation

 Industrial Environments: Used in factories and warehouses where power cables and data cables
need to be installed and protected.
 Offices and commercial spaces: Floor channels allow flexible distribution of cables to power
workstations, equipment and electrical devices.
 Events and temporary installations: Channels can be used for cable management in temporary
spaces (fairs, exhibitions), due to their ability to be easily opened and closed.

Regulatory Requirements

The installation in the gutter must comply with electrical safety standards, in particular standard NF C 15-
100 in France:

 Cable protection and insulation: The ducts must ensure adequate protection of the cables against
the risks of wear and short circuit, especially if they are used in humid or dusty environments.
 Separation of circuits: To avoid interference, power, data and telecommunications cables must be
separated inside the ducts, by partitions if necessary.
 Accessibility and safety: The channels must be installed so that they are easily accessible without
risk to users, while being protected against any unauthorized intervention.

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In summary

Cable ducting is a flexible and secure solution for cable distribution, particularly suitable for industrial and
commercial environments. It combines protection and accessibility, although its installation can be
expensive. It offers optimal cable management, allowing for clear organization and easy access for
maintenance and modifications.

2-8 Submerged pose

Submerged laying is a method of installing electrical cables underwater, whether in rivers, lakes, ponds, or
in the sea. It is commonly used for submarine power transmission networks (e.g. cables connecting islands to
the mainland), offshore power generation facilities (offshore wind turbines, floating solar farms), or for
specific infrastructures (such as port facilities or pumping stations).

Submerged Pose

1. Specially designed submarine or submerged cables:

o Cables must be suitable for an aquatic environment. They are reinforced with several layers
of protection: waterproof outer sheath, steel reinforcement to resist pressure and mechanical
aggression, and special insulation to avoid electrical risks.
o Depending on the depth and environmental conditions (currents, temperature, sea salt), the
type of cable and the level of protection vary.
2. Installation methods:
o Laying by sinking or burial: In shallow areas, cables can be sunk into the seabed, often
using water jetting or a burial pad, to protect them from ship anchors, currents, and sediment
movement.
o Laying on the surface of the seabed: For very deep areas, cables are sometimes laid directly
on the seabed without burial, but require reinforced protection against mechanical risks and
abrasion.
3. Using floats and tags :
o Temporary flotation devices may be used during laying to keep the cable on the surface prior
to installation.
o Beacons may be placed to mark submerged cables, especially in navigation areas, to avoid the
risk of damage by boat anchors or fishing equipment.

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Advantages of Submerged Installation

 Discretion and lack of visual impact: Submerged installation allows electricity to be transported
invisibly, which is essential for certain environmental and aesthetic projects.
 Protection from land damage: Underwater, cables are protected from damage from construction,
wildfires, or other land hazards.
 Durability: Submarine cables are designed to withstand aquatic conditions and can last for decades
with limited maintenance.

Disadvantages of Submerged Installation

 High cost: Laying submerged cables is technically complex and expensive, requiring specialized
equipment, cable laying vessels, and skilled labor.
 Difficulty of maintenance: In the event of a breakdown or damage, repairs are complicated and
require specialized underwater interventions.
 Environmental impact: The installation may disrupt the aquatic ecosystem, especially when
burying cables. An environmental impact study is generally necessary to minimize the effects on
flora and fauna.

Submerged Pose

 Subsea interconnections: Used to connect power grids between countries or regions separated by
large bodies of water.
 Offshore renewables: Submerged cables are essential for transporting energy produced by offshore
wind farms or floating solar farms to the onshore grid.
 Island infrastructure: Essential for supplying islands with electricity from the mainland,
particularly when local production is insufficient.

Regulatory Requirements and Standards

The installation of submerged cables is governed by strict standards and rules to ensure the safety and
durability of the installation:

 Environmental studies: Impact studies are often mandatory to avoid disturbance of underwater
habitats.
 Safety Standards: Cables must comply with electrical safety and mechanical strength standards,
such as those specified by international organizations for submarine cables.
 Route planning: Cable routing is carefully planned to avoid sensitive areas, strong currents, and
locations where underwater work could damage the cables.

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In summary

Submerged installation is an essential solution for subsea power grids and offshore renewable energy
projects. It offers advantages in terms of sustainability and discretion, although its cost and maintenance
complexity reserve it for specific projects. Compliance with environmental standards and requirements is
crucial for the success and sustainability of this type of installation.

3-Choice of installation methods

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