PVC casing wiring is a traditional electrical installation method where wires are run inside protective plastic channels mounted on the surface of walls or ceilings.
PVC casing wiring, also known as casing and capping, is an electrical wiring method where PVC insulated wires are placed in plastic casings and covered with a cap. This system is one of the oldest and most popular wiring systems still employed in some applications today. It involves laying wires within a base channel (the casing) and then securing them with a cover (the cap), both typically made from durable PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) plastic. This method keeps the wires neat, protected, and easily accessible for maintenance or modifications.
Key Components
The PVC casing wiring system primarily consists of two main components, both made from PVC plastic:
- Casing: The base channel that is fixed onto the wall or ceiling surface. It has grooves or compartments to hold the electrical wires securely.
- Cap: A lid or cover that fits over the casing, enclosing the wires and providing protection.
Additionally, the system requires:
- PVC Insulated Wires: Standard electrical wires with PVC insulation are used within the casing.
- Fittings: Various accessories like bends, tees, junction boxes, etc., are used to manage turns, connections, and branching of the casing runs.
How PVC Casing Wiring Works
Installation involves fixing the PVC casing channels directly onto the surface of the wall or ceiling using screws. The electrical wires are then laid neatly inside the grooves of the casing. Once all the wires are in place along the run, the PVC cap is snapped or slid into place over the casing, completely encasing the wires. This creates a visible, protected pathway for the electrical circuit.
Characteristics and Applications
This wiring method has distinct characteristics:
- Surface Mounted: The entire installation is visible on the surface of the structure, unlike concealed wiring methods.
- Ease of Installation: Relatively simple and quick to install compared to concealed wiring.
- Accessibility: Wires are easily accessible by removing the cap, simplifying repair or modification.
- Protection: Provides mechanical protection to the wires from physical damage and dust.
- Cost-Effective: Can be less expensive than concealed conduit wiring, especially for smaller installations or additions.
PVC casing wiring is commonly used in residential buildings (especially older ones or extensions), small commercial spaces, workshops, and temporary installations where concealed wiring is impractical or uneconomical.
| Component | Description | Material | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Casing | Base channel fixed to surface | PVC | Holds the wires |
| Cap | Cover that fits over the casing | PVC | Encloses and protects the wires |
| Wiring | Electrical conductors | Copper | Carries electrical current |
| Insulation | Covering on wires | PVC | Prevents electric shock/shorting |
In summary, PVC casing wiring is a straightforward, surface-mounted system providing a protected route for electrical wires using simple plastic channels.
