ELLIS PATENTS FIGHTS FIRE WITH PHOENIX CLEATS

Marketing leading cable cleat manufacturer, Ellis Patents has launched a range of fire proof cable cleats designed specifically for installation with fire protection (FP) rated cables.

Developed to provide a proven and cost-effective method of safe cable restraint for any FP installation, the range is manufactured in 316L stainless steel and is fire proof and corrosion resistant.

“To date there has been no agreed test for a cleat to be put through in order to rate its performance in fire,” said Ellis Patents managing director, Richard Shaw. “Instead cast iron cleats, which have a melting point high enough to provide the necessary safety reassurances, have generally been used.

“The drawback to this approach is that cast iron is costly, which makes such cleats restrictively expensive. And with a significant growth in the number of FP installations the clamour for a more cost effective solution has been growing.”

Ellis Patents delivered the solution by working in close conjunction with Exova Warringtonfire – a world leader in fire testing, certification and consultation – and its main UK distributor, Tolworth-based ETS Cable Components. The companies developing a testing process that most realistically reflected the conditions the cleat might see in service.

The tests included exposure to fire, impact and water spray, all of which combined to ensure that the Phoenix range offers fire protection to the same level as the cables it will be installed to protect.

“As with anyone bringing a new product to market we are delighted to be first off the mark, but I do feel that the fact we were faced with developing a new product without the guidance of an industry agreed testing procedure once again highlights the severe lack of understanding when it comes to the role cable cleats play in any cable installation,” added Richard Shaw.

“In a standard short circuit situation, underspecified cleats will simply add to the shrapnel, therefore putting lives and expensive installations at unnecessary risk. Similarly, put underspecified cleats on a fire rated cable installation and any benefit such cabling may bring to a building is instantly lost.

The new Phoenix range is available in 11 sizes, ranging from 10 to 65mm, and features a single bolt fixing meaning it is easy to fit. For additional information on it and Ellis Patents visit www.ellispatents.co.uk or call 1300 556 601.