Installation of wiring networks can be performed in an open and hidden way. Each of them has pros and cons, but the first option is often the only possible one. Simple laying of the wire with fixing with hardware at a small step of about 100 cm according to modern operational standards and safety requirements is also not suitable. The output is the use of the cable channel, in the niche of which the wire is placed. The technology is quite simple, but when using it, it is important to consider several nuances of installation. How to fix the cable channel to the wall? The answer to this question will depend on the type of surface and the operating conditions of the electrical infrastructure.
What is a cable channel
This is an installation box designed for laying cable routes on different surfaces in a room. Its task is to disguise and physically protect the wires from damage and dust. The main material for the manufacture of the construction of the box is a plastic alloy, which can have moisture and thermal protection. There are also metal structures - from galvanized or cold rolled steel. But the use of metal boxes is not always convenient due to electromagnetic interference and a rigid structure.
The appearance of the product may vary in texture and texture. The classic white cable channel made of plastic is most often found, but there are also stylized design options for wood or stone tiles. Also, the channel is supplemented by various mounting and adjusting accessories for laying in difficult places and creating functional electrical components.
General installation technology
The technology of installation and fastening of the cable channel involves several operations. At the basic stage, marking of the gasket contours is performed, along which the channel will be laid in segments. Next, fix the basis of the structure. It should be noted that the channel itself is formed by several segments - at least it will be the supporting part in the form of a thin long panel that is mounted directly to the wall. The second mandatory part is the closing cover, which is fixed with latches or groove lock connectors to the already installed base. How to fix the cable channel to the wall? There are several methods: from fixing with holders to direct installation using self-tapping screws, bolts or other twisted hardware. In both cases, the preliminary creation of format holes for deepening the fasteners is required. An exception can only be an adhesive fixation method.
Junction box installation
Complex branched and intersecting tracks must be securely fixed at the joints. Properly organize the gasket at such points allows a special accessory in the form of a distribution box. Usually it is made of the same material as the main channel. With a large number of intersection or connection points, it is better to use plastic kits, since during installation, it may be necessary to create abnormal holes and perforations.
How to fix a cable channel to a wall with a distribution box? Also, markup is initially performed. Further, in the places of decoupling, a box is installed - this operation is performed by complete fasteners with anchors, brackets or screws. It is important to comply with the position of the box so that the output sides are clearly oriented on the line of the cable channels. The latter are fixed at the bottom of the box using plugs and other special clamps, which must be present in the kit. At the final stage, after connecting the wiring lines, the structure is closed by the junction box lid.
Work with corners
The most difficult sections of the cable channel are corners. Theoretically, it is possible to dispense with a standard design in such places by correctly cutting and bending it. And for this, you should initially use a flexible cable channel, which will not break during installation and will not break after some time of operation. But a more reliable option involves the use of special corners - internal and external. Such accessories consist of a bearing base, track dividers and an external lining (cover). This is a kind of transitional segment, acting as a connecting link between the contours that meet at an angle. Of course, there is no need for a joint as such - the route can be laid in a continuous manner, and the connecting operations will only affect a bunch of flexible corners with two channels on the sides. All fastening operations are performed using the same list of hardware.
How to fix a cable channel to a concrete wall
The best solution is to use a combination of dowels and anchors. The format of the fasteners should be suitable for the design load on the structure. First, a hole is created using an electric drill. If we are talking about a dense concrete wall with a solid base, a powerful impact drill or even a perforator may be required. The same pattern is used if you need to fix on a brick wall. How to fix the cable channel? A channel support panel is applied to the prepared holes, and then an anchor is installed. If all holes match, you can twist the hardware. Next, the attachment points are smeared with sealant and the lid closes.
How to fix a cable channel to a wooden wall
Rigid power hardware is not suitable for soft wood substrates. The same applies to various types of panel structures, foam concrete blocks, gypsum sheets, etc. In this case, a more delicate and at the same time tight fitting of fasteners into the soft body base is required. How and how to fix the cable channel to the wall of wood? It is advisable to use black self-tapping screws 30-40 mm long. Very long and very small elements will not work for various reasons - from excessive destruction of the base to insufficient bearing force. The twisting is done with a screwdriver with a cross-shaped bat at low speeds. The step between the attachment points is maintained at about 50 cm.
It is important to note that the black color of the self-tapping screw is preferable because of its resistance to corrosion. But contact with wood also implies other biological threats to the wall structure. Therefore, it will not be superfluous to pre-treat the surface of the fastener with special protective impregnations for wood.
Adhesive method
The channel support panel is glued to the wall surface with mounting glue or liquid nails. How to fix the cable channel to the wall in this way? On the back side of the panel, it is enough to apply a thin wavy line of the composition with an amplitude of about 75% of the channel width. Next, the base of the box is pressed against the wall and held for about 30 seconds. The specific nuances of the work process will depend on the type of adhesive, but the main thing is that it has compatibility with the channel material and the mounting surface.
Conclusion
The use of special devices for laying cable routes in a room is inexpensive, but it provides effective protection for wiring during operation. For example, a two-meter segment of a flexible cable channel can be purchased for only 20-30 rubles. The same cost will cost piece piece fittings and related accessories. For a large office with thick and long tracks, complex laying will require significant investments, but even these costs will pay off due to the electrotechnical reliability of the infrastructure. After all, if the channels are left open, they will be subject to numerous negative influences, which in the near future will require the replacement of wire insulation or a complete upgrade of the route. And this is not to mention an aesthetic accent, since correctly selected cable channels on the invoice not only hide the wiring, but can also place design accents in the interior of the room.