Batt Cables: How Cable Cleats Improve Stability in Electrical Installation
April 2025

Cable management isn’t just about keeping things neat—it’s about ensuring safety, performance, and longevity. When dealing with high-power electrical installations, stability is everything. That’s where cable cleats come in. These small but mighty devices play a huge role in securing cables, preventing damage, and ensuring your electrical system stays rock solid.
What Are Cable Cleats?

Cable cleats are mechanical devices designed to hold electrical cables firmly in place. Whether you’re dealing with high-voltage installations or everyday wiring, cleats keep cables from shifting due to mechanical stress, electrical surges, or environmental factors. They help prevent wear, reduce the risk of electrical faults, and ultimately contribute to a safer installation.
Why Are They Important?

Prevents Cable Movement – In the event of short circuits or mechanical vibrations, cables can move, which may cause damage or disconnections. Cable cleats stop that from happening.
Enhances Safety – Loose cables are a safety hazard. Cleats secure them properly, reducing fire risks and preventing accidents.
Prolongs Cable Life – Excessive movement or pressure can wear down cable insulation. Cleats help extend the life of your cables by keeping them in place.
Ensures Compliance – Many electrical standards require cable restraint systems. Using cleats ensures compliance with regulations like IEC 61914.

Types of Cable Cleats You Can Find at Batt Cables

Not all cable cleats are built the same. Depending on your installation needs, you’ll want the right type to secure your cables effectively. Here are some top options available at Batt Cables:
1. Reliance Aluminium Trefoil Cleats with LSF Liner

Designed for trefoil cable arrangements, offering secure fastening in high-voltage environments.
Made from 5000 series aluminium, ensuring strength and durability.
Includes a Low Smoke & Fume (LSF) liner to protect cables from damage.
Available in 24 sizes, covering cable diameters from 19mm to 128mm.

2. Sabre Single Bolt Plastic Cleats

Simple yet effective for single-cable installations.
Made from high-quality plastic, ensuring durability without damaging the cable.
A cost-effective solution for medium and low-voltage applications.

3. Helios Stainless Steel Fire Performance Cleats

Built from corrosion-resistant Stainless Steel 316L.
Ideal for securing fire-resistant cables in critical installations.
Designed to maintain cable retention even in extreme fire conditions.

How to Choose the Right Cable Cleat

Choosing the right cable cleat is essential to ensuring the longevity and stability of your electrical installation. Several factors come into play when making this decision.
Cable Configuration

The way your cables are arranged will determine the type of cleat you need. Trefoil configurations require cleats that can securely hold three cables together in a circular pattern, while single and quad arrangements demand different designs to prevent movement and maintain stability.
Installation Environment

The surrounding environment plays a significant role in selecting the right cleat. Outdoor installations require corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel to withstand moisture, chemicals, and harsh weather. High-temperature areas should use fire-resistant cleats to ensure the cables remain secure under extreme heat.
Mechanical Stress Considerations

If your installation involves vibrations, electrical faults, or potential short circuits, strong cleats are essential. High-strength cleats provide superior grip and stability, preventing cables from shifting or sustaining damage during surges or heavy mechanical stress. It’s worth noting that each cable cleat design can perform differently in terms of short circuit resistance. The required performance information will be available on the manufacturer’s datasheet.
Best Practices for Installing Cable Cleats

Even the highest-quality cleats won’t be effective if they’re not installed correctly. Following best practices during installation ensures optimal performance and long-term reliability.
Ensure Proper Spacing

Proper spacing between cleats is crucial for stability. Manufacturers provide guidelines to manage mechanical forces and prevent excessive cable movement, ensuring the system remains secure and efficient. Manufacturers can also provide support but guidance on cleat spacing is also found in the cable cleat standard BS EN 61914.
Secure Mounting Surfaces

Cleats should always be attached to a solid mounting surface. Whether fixed to walls, ceilings, or support structures, the surface must be strong enough to withstand external forces and prevent displacement.
Perform Regular Inspections

Routine inspections help maintain system integrity. Over time, cleats may wear due to environmental exposure or vibrations, so regular checks ensure they remain in good condition and provide continued cable support.

Cable cleats might not be the most talked-about component in electrical installations, but they are undeniably crucial. From working on a large-scale power plant or a commercial building, securing your cables properly can mean the difference between a reliable system and a disaster waiting to happen.Explore the wide range of cable cleats and other cable accessories at Batt Cables, and invest in stability, safety, and long-term performance for your electrical setup.