Cable Cleats
Are Your Cable Cleats Fit for Data Centres? Rethinking High-Density Cable Management
April 10th, 2026
Rethinking Cable Cleats for High-Density Data Centres
Global demand for cloud computing, AI workloads and digital services is accelerating the construction of data centres at an unprecedented scale. Hyperscale facilities are now being developed across Europe, North America and Asia, placing increasing pressure on electrical infrastructure.
Inside these environments, power distribution systems are becoming larger, denser and more complex. Electrical energy must move efficiently from substations to switchgear, generators, UPS systems and distribution panels through extensive networks of large single-core power cables.
These cables carry significant electrical loads and must be properly restrained using Band-IT manufactured cable cleats as part of safe and effective data centre cable management.
Why Cable Cleats Matter More Than Ever
In modern data centres, cable routing is no longer straightforward. High-density tray systems, parallel feeder arrangements and evolving layouts create increasingly complex installation environments.
As outlined in our guide to cable cleats, these devices are specifically designed to secure and restrain power cables, particularly during short-circuit events where mechanical forces can be extreme.
Without proper restraint, cables can shift or whip under magnetic forces, risking damage to insulation, equipment and power continuity.
The Installation Challenges Behind Traditional Cable Cleats – Installation Friction
Traditional cable cleats are often installed before cable pulling begins. This requires installers to pre-stage hardware and predict exact cleat locations in advance.
In practice, this approach introduces several issues:
- Cleats can interfere with cable rollers, increasing friction during pulling
- Parallel feeder installations become more difficult in dense tray systems
- Installers must work around heavy cables in confined spaces after pulling
- Multi-component systems increase handling time and installation errors
In high-density environments, these challenges can significantly slow down installation.
Engineering Complexity
Many traditional systems require multiple cleat sizes such as single way cable cleats to match different cable diameters and configurations. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
This creates additional work for engineering teams, including spacing calculations, SKU selection and adapting designs as routing evolves.
Project Impact
What appears to be a minor component can have a wider impact across the project:
- Increased material costs
- Extended installation time
- Programme delays from rework or inefficiencies
Why Cable Cleats Are Critical for Electrical Safety
Cable restraint is essential for maintaining safety under fault conditions.
During a short-circuit event, extremely high currents generate powerful magnetic forces between conductors. These forces occur rapidly and can cause uncontrolled cable movement if not properly restrained.
Cable cleats are specifically designed to prevent excessive movement caused by fault-current magnetic forces, helping protect both equipment and personnel.
To ensure performance, cleats should comply with international standards such as IEC 61914, which defines testing requirements for short-circuit restraint capability.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
- Short-circuit restraint capability
- IEC 61914 compliance
- Mechanical strength under electromechanical forces
- Suitability for high-density and high voltage installations
How Cable Cleat Requirements Are Changing in Data Centres
In high-density data centres, cable cleat selection is no longer based on performance alone. Engineers must now balance:
- Electrical performance
- Physical integration
- Installation practicality
As explored in our article on cable cleats in data centres, these systems are essential for maintaining safety, airflow and operational efficiency in modern facilities.
Post-pull installation methods are increasingly preferred, helping reduce friction during cable pulls and improving installer access in dense tray environments.
A Simpler Approach to Cable Cleats
Modern data centre projects require solutions that simplify both engineering and installation while maintaining compliance.
One approach is the use of post-pull cable cleat systems, designed to improve installation efficiency and reduce complexity.
Key Benefits
- Reduced obstruction during cable pulling
- Improved access in confined tray systems
- Lower SKU requirements
- Faster installation across large projects
High-performance solutions such as stainless steel or aluminium cable cleats are often specified depending on environmental conditions, corrosion resistance and required short-circuit ratings.
Why Installation Speed Is Now Critical
Modern data centre construction is driven by tight schedules, labour constraints and supply chain pressures.
In this environment, even small improvements in installation efficiency can deliver significant benefits. Where thousands of cleats are required, reducing installation time per unit can result in substantial labour savings.
Efficient cable cleat solutions can help maintain project timelines while supporting low voltage and high voltage electrical safety and compliance.
Choosing the Right Cable Cleat: A Practical Guide (IEC 61914 + Installation Tips)
February 23rd, 2026
Selecting the right cable cleat is a key part of designing and installing a reliable power distribution system. In environments such as industrial facilities, critical power and other electrical installations, cable cleats help ensure a short-circuit event does not escalate into major cable or equipment damage.
During a fault, electromagnetic forces rise rapidly and can cause cables to move violently. Correctly selected and installed cleats restrain cables during these brief but critical moments — supporting safety, equipment protection and overall system integrity.
This guide sets out practical steps to support cable cleat selection: understanding fault forces, the variables that influence cleat performance, and how to choose solutions that suit your cable formation, tray/ladder geometry and site constraints.
Practical rule of thumb
Cable cleats aren’t just tidy cable management. They are a mechanical safety component designed to restrain cables during short-circuit conditions.
Start with prospective fault level and formation, then work outwards to spacing, mounting geometry and installation constraints.
Specify BAND-IT Cable Cleats with Confidence
Tell us your cable sizes, formation, tray/ladder type and prospective fault level. We’ll help you identify a compliant, practical cable cleat solution for your installation.
Selection Support • Standards-Led Guidance • Project-Ready Supply
Ellis Patents Cable Cleats for Major Power Plant Project
May 27th, 2025
21.5.2025
HOLDING POWER by Ellis Patents | 30,000+ Vulcan Cleats and Flexistraps shipped out today under the blazing Yorkshire sun. The cable cleats will provide short-circuit restraint to both 11kV and 33kV Medium Voltage Cable Networks.
This WIN demonstrates the high-value of collaborative, proactive and strategized Manufacturer-Distributor relationships; we look forward to co-creating a Case Study to highlight how together we have worked to secure this achievement and satisfy clients specification and technical application requirements.
The consignment is now to be delivered to SEB International Ltd, the UK’s leading manufacturer of Cable Pulling & Laying Equipment, and consolidated for shipment with a CD500S Cable Drum Trailer (Payload 20,000kgs | Max Drum Width 2400mm), TW5000 Cable Pulling Winch and CP700 Cable Pushing Unit to power-up an accelerated cable laying process.
The £750K project value to Thorne & Derrick demonstrates our ability to manage and deliver upon UK and international major projects from our robust world-class supply-chain.
The High Voltage 132kV Cables will be connected to Grid using GIS Dry-Type Terminations from Nexans while all Medium Voltage 33/11kV switchgear and transformer Connectors are completed using market-leading Euromold and Connex brands from Nexans Power Accessories and Pfisterer.
All Cleats & Cable Accessories supplied by Thorne & Derrick – the purchase contract was managed by Gary Amos (Thorne & Derrick Sales Engineer).
Ellis Patents | HOLDING POWER
Pictured | Carl Cox (Thorne & Derrick Sales Engineer | Rail) with Noman Shabir (Ellis Patents National Sales Manager). The Ellis Patents ranges of PADS Approved Cable Cleats & Tunnel Hangers provide advanced material performance for substation, trackside and tunnel applications; this includes the short-circuit restraint and support of LV MV HV power cables. Please do not hesitate to contact Thorne & Derrick should you require further info, Lunch n Learn, CPD or Joint Visit to discuss your next cable cleat project requirements.
Ellis Patents Emperor Cable Cleats | Single & Trefoil | cable cleats designed, developed, tested and manufactured by Ellis from the Emperor range in accordance with IEC 61914 suitable for single, trefoil and Quad cable configurations
Ellis Patents Centaur Cable Saddles | the Ellis Centaur cable cleat has been designed, developed, tested and manufactured in accordance with IEC 61914 (Cable Cleats for Electrical Installations). The cable saddles are designed to support High Voltage Power Cables with diameters from 100mm to 162mm. Centaur consists of an extruded and pressed aluminium saddle and a hinged aluminium over strap.
Ellis Patents Aluminium Cable Cleats | the Ellis 2A two hole cable clamps have been designed, developed, tested and manufactured in accordance with IEC 61914 (Cable Cleats for Electrical Installations). The cable clamps are available in a range of sizes with range taking ability to suit single cables – the clamp can be epoxy coated for use in harsh environments, such as sea air conditions.
Ellis Patents Vulcan Cable Cleats | the Vulcan cleats are available in a range of sizes with range taking ability to suit single and trefoil cable formations (also available in Quad formation). The frame of the cleat is manufactured from corrosion-resistant 316L grade stainless steel, the cable is supported by a liner manufactured from a low smoke zero halogen (LSOH) material.
Ellis Patents Colossus Cable Cleats | The Colossus cleat is available in a range of sizes with range taking ability to suit LV MV HV cables in trefoil formation. The frame of the cleat is manufactured from grade 316L stainless steel, and the body of the cable cleat is manufactured from a low smoke and zero halogen (LSOH) material.
Ellis Patents Trident Cable Cleats | cable cleat is available in a range of sizes with range taking ability to suit LV MV HV cables in trefoil formation. The cleat is manufactured as standard in LSF which is PFAS and halogen free, flame retardant and suitable for outdoor applications.
Further Reading
- Ellis Patents Extend Vulcan+ Cable Cleat Range To Accommodate Smaller Cables
- Polymer Cable Cleats | Holding Power with Ellis Patents
- Cable Cleats | A Device For Short Circuit Protection | CPD Course By Ellis Patents
Understanding The Critical Role Of Cable Cleats in Data Centres
March 31st, 2025
Do You Need Cable Cleats in Data Centres?
In an increasingly digital world, Cable Cleats in Data Centres are crucial in support of the backbone of global connectivity. Every click, transaction, and streamed video relies on complex Data Centre infrastructures operating seamlessly. As the demand for high-speed data and reliable uptime continues to grow, so too does the need for robust electrical infrastructure. Among the often-overlooked yet crucial components of Data Centre design is cable management – ensuring that LV MV HV Power Cables and data cables are installed, protected, and maintained to the highest standards.
What is a Cable Cleat?
Cable Cleats are devices used to secure, fix, strap and support electrical power cables in an installation, ensuring safe operation and prevention of damage or injury, specifically in the event of a short circuit. Cable Cleats in Data Centres are ultimately purposed to increase/enhanced safety, organisation, cable protection, containment and ensure optimal performance. Typically, Cable Cleats are designed to be attached to various surfaces, such as ladders, trays, struts, rails, or beams.
LV MV HV Power Cable Management in Data Centres
Modern data centres are high-density environments where vast amounts of power are distributed through extensive cabling systems. These installations face several key challenges:
- High Power Demand: Data Centres require vast amounts of electrical power, leading to high-capacity cabling systems that must be properly supported and secured.
- Thermal Management: Poor cable management with no Cable Cleat usage can obstruct airflow, leading to overheating and reduced efficiency.
- Fire Safety: Electrical faults, if not properly contained, can pose a serious risk to critical infrastructure and personnel. Regulations require secure cable installation to prevent short circuits and mitigate fire hazards.
- Maintenance and Upgrades: Well-organised cabling simplifies maintenance and reduces downtime as data centres are continually evolving.
Cable Cleats Critical Role in Ensuring Safety and Performance
Cable Cleats, Clamps & Hangers play a fundamental role in securing electrical power cables, particularly in high-voltage environments. While they may be a small component of the overall electrical system, their importance cannot be overstated. Cable Cleats in Data Centres provide vital protection by:
- Protection during Short Circuits and Electrical Failures: In the event of a fault, the forces generated by high-powered electrical cables can be immense. Without proper restraint, power cables can move violently, leading to catastrophic failures. Cable Cleats hold cables in place, mitigating these risks.
- Ensuring Compliance with Industry Standards: International regulations, such as IEC 61914 Power Cable Standards, set stringent requirements for cable fixing and restraint systems. High-quality cable cleats ensure compliance with these safety standards.
- Aiding Thermal Management: Securely spaced cables allow for improved airflow and more efficient heat dissipation, contributing to the overall energy efficiency of a Data Centre.
- Enhancing Longevity and Reliability: Properly restrained cables experience less wear and tear over time, reducing the likelihood of maintenance issues and unplanned outages.
How Do You Choose the Right Cable Cleats for Data Centres?
Not all Cable Cleats are created equal, and selecting the right product for a Data Centre environment requires careful consideration to provide optimal LV MV HV power cable support. Key factors include:
- Performance Under Fault Conditions: Cleats must be tested under high short-circuit conditions to ensure they provide adequate restraint in the event of a fault.
- Material Selection: Corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel or high-strength polymers are ideal for ensuring longevity.
- Installation Flexibility: Data centres often require custom cable arrangements, so cleats should allow for easy installation and adaptability to different configurations.
Cable Cleats, Clamps & Hangers
Cable Cleats in Data Centres aren’t necessarily the most visible component. However, Cable Cleats, Clamps & Hangers play an indispensable role in securing the power supply that keeps the digital world running from Data Centres. A well-designed support system incorporating compatible Cable Cleats protects infrastructure while contributing to operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.
Cable Clamps | Single & 2 Hole Clamps | Aluminium & Plastic | No-Bolts Cleats Stackable & Boltless LU Approved
Thorne & Derrick are stockists and suppliers of a complete range of Cable Cleats used to clamp and retain low, medium and high voltage cables in the event of a short circuit, including 11kV/33kV MV HV power cables – single-way cable cleats, trefoil cable cleats, quadrofoil cable cleats, emperor cable cleats and multiple bundled cable configurations can be cleated using Ellis Patents and Prysmian manufactured Cable Cleats in a choice of materials including nylon, stainless steel and aluminium.
Cable Clamps: The BAND-IT BAND-FAST Range – IEC61914 Tested
December 2nd, 2024
Cable Clamps
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uploaded by: Chris Dodds Thorne & Derrick Sales & Marketing Manager
Short Circuit Restraint for Power Cables
BAND-FAST is a versatile Cable Clamping System for harsh, hazardous and high-performance industrial cable support applications – the cost-saving cable banding solution comprises stainless steel pre-cut banding with pre-assembled buckle.
This IEC61914 compliant cable management system provides installers with significant labour productivity gains of up to 30% and up to 75% material cost savings compared to cable cleats for the short-circuit retention and support of power cables.
Two options are available: a PPA Coated version and an Uncoated version with captive clip both manufactured from type 316 stainless steel – high strength, compact flat profile, space and weight saving, non-corrosive and fire resistant.
The cable clamps have successfully been utilised on the following applications:
- Onshore & Offshore Windfarms (including Converter Stations
- Solar Farms
- Data Centres
- Offshore Platforms / FPSO’s
- Shipbuilding & Marine
- Refineries / Petrochem
- Public Buildings
Specialist Subsea Cable & Pipeline Applications
BAND-FAST cable clamps are also available in highly corrosion resistance materials including: Monel®, Alloy 625, Zeron100 and 316 Stainless Steel for the attachment of polyurethane mouldings, saddles, protectors and piggy-back clamps in subsea energy projects.
BAND-FAST cable clamps
Advantages
- Purchase price is significantly lower
–Up to 75% material cost savings
- Installation time is dramatically reduced
–Reduce labour cost up to 50%
- Low smooth profile
–Space savings on construction
- More versatile
–Conforms to most shapes / cable configurations
- Large diameter reduction (one size fits all)
–Fewer SKU’s to order / stock
- No accessories required
–No nuts / bolts / packing blocks
- Lighter weight cable clamps
–Reduced weight on construction
–Easier to carry around site
–Safer during installation at height
Cable Cleat Standard IEC61914
The cable clamps are independently tested to the latest Cable Cleat Standard IEC61914 for resistance to electromechanical force.
Short Circuit Testing of BAND-FAST Clamps
Subjected to 2x Short Circuits and dielectric test after wetting
PPA Coated BAND-FAST Cable Clamps By BAND-IT
Tests conducted to IEC61914
“Tests for Resistance to Electromechanical Force” Section 6.4.3 and 6.4.4.
➡ The following tables enables the selection of the correct BAND-FAST cable clamp manufactured by BAND-IT based on 300mm spacing between clamps according to IEC61914. Request Test Data for 600mm spacing of BAND-FAST clamps.
| BAND-IT Part Number | Width | Band Ref/Material | Length (mm) | Clip/Ref Material | Single Wrap or Double Wrap | *Max Cable OD (Single cable config) | *Max Cable OD (Trefoil cable config) | *Max Cable OD (Quadrafoil cable config) | Pack qty Piece | Weight Per Piece (kg) | **Pass IEC61914 Short circuit test in trefoil up to (KA PEAK) |
| LFAC-F1015M030–A900 | 15.88mm (5/8”) | AE435 316 SS |
300 | AE455 316 SS |
Single | 40mm | 13mm | 12mm | 100 | 0.025 | 50.8kA |
| LFAC-F1015M040–A900 | 400 | 75mm | 28mm | 25mm | 100 | 0.030 | |||||
| LFAC-F1015M050–A900 | 500 | 100mm | 43mm | 37mm | 100 | 0.038 | |||||
| LFAC-F1015M060–A900 | 600 | 130mm | 57mm | 50mm | 100 | 0.045 | |||||
| LFAC-F1015M070–A900 | 700 | 160mm | 70mm | 60mm | 100 | 0.052 | |||||
| LFFC-F1015M040–A900 | 400 | LE155 316 SS |
1Double | 40mm | 13mm | 12mm | 100 | 0.030 | 76.3kA | ||
| LFFC-F1015M050–A900 | 500 | 55mm | 21mm | 18mm | 100 | 0.038 | |||||
| LFFC-F1015M060–A900 | 600 | 70mm | 28mm | 25mm | 100 | 0.045 | |||||
| LFFC-F1015M070–A900 | 700 | 85mm | 35mm | 31mm | 100 | 0.052 | |||||
| LFFC-F1015M080–A900 | 800 | 100mm | 42mm | 37mm | 100 | 0.060 | |||||
| LFFC-F1015M100–A900 | 1000 | 130mm | 57mm | 50mm | 100 | 0.075 | |||||
| LFFC-F1015M120–A900 | 1200 | 160mm | 70mm | 60mm | 100 | 0.090 | |||||
| Ref C075 Bantam Tool for application of all PPA Coated BAND-FAST® Clamps | 1.040 | ||||||||||
Uncoated BAND-FAST Cable Clamps installed with additional cushion sleeve
| BAND-IT Part Number | Width | Band Ref/Material | Length (mm) | Clip/Ref Material | Single Wrap or Double Wrap | *Max Cable OD (Single cable config) | *Max Cable OD (Trefoil cable config) | *Max Cable OD (Quadrafoil cable config) | Pack qty Piece | Weight Per Piece (kg) | **Pass IEC61914 Short circuit test in trefoil up to (KA PEAK) |
| LFEC-F1030M050 | 15.88mm (5/8”) | C405 316 SS |
500 | C455 316 SS |
Double | 55mm | 21mm | 18mm | 100 | 0.062 | 112kA |
| LFEC-F1030M060 | 600 | 70mm | 28mm | 25mm | 100 | 0.070 | |||||
| LFEC-F1030M070 | 700 | 85mm | 35mm | 31mm | 100 | 0.078 | |||||
| LFEC-F1030M080 | 800 | 100mm | 42mm | 37mm | 100 | 0.086 | |||||
| LFEC-F1030M100 | 1000 | 130mm | 57mm | 50mm | 100 | 0.103 | |||||
| LFEC-F1030M120 | 1200 | 160mm | 70mm | 60mm | 100 | 0.120 | |||||
| LFEC-F1230M050 | 19.1mm (3/4″) | C406 316 SS |
500 | C456 316 SS |
Double | 55mm | 21mm | 18mm | 100 | 0.078 | 120kA |
| LFEC-F1230M060 | 600 | 70mm | 28mm | 25mm | 100 | 0.088 | |||||
| LFEC-F1230M070 | 700 | 85mm | 35mm | 31mm | 100 | 0.098 | |||||
| LFEC-F1230M080 | 800 | 100mm | 42mm | 37mm | 100 | 0.108 | |||||
| LFEC-F1230M100 | 1000 | 130mm | 57mm | 50mm | 100 | 0.128 | |||||
| LFEC-F1230M120 | 1200 | 160mm | 70mm | 60mm | 100 | 0.150 | |||||
| Ref C001 Band-It® Tool for application of all Uncoated BAND-FAST® Clamps | 2.000 | ||||||||||
*Note: Maximum cable OD are for a guide only.
Short Circuit Test Videos
PPA Coated BAND-FAST® Cable Clamps with Clip. Test Video #33 70.1kA (2nd Shock – 600mm Spacings).
Thorne & Derrick are Specialist Distributors to international Utilities, UK DNO’s, ICP’s and HV Jointing Contractors of an extensive range of LV HV Cable Jointing, Substation, Tooling & Installation Equipment from 600V to 66kV – we service wind energy, solar power, battery storage, rail, utility, datacentre and the explosive atmosphere industries.
Based in the UK, we are highly customer responsive and absolutely committed to providing a world-class service.
Since 1985, we have provided expert technical support and express delivery from extensive UK stocks to world-wide destinations.
Key Product Categories: Connectors, Joints & Terminations MV HV | Cable Preparation & Jointing Tools | Duct Seals | Cable Transits | Cable Cleats | Cable Glands | Electrical Safety | Arc Flash Clothing & Protection | Cable Pulling | Earthing & Lightning Protection | Feeder Pillars
