Underground Cable Rack
Underground Cable Racks, also called Vault Cable Racks, Â are essential mounting systems designed for supporting and organizing cables in manholes and underground vault applications. They mount directly to vault walls using expansion or anchor bolts, providing a secure foundation for cable management. They work in conjunction with support hooks, stanchions, and insulator pads to create complete cable support systems.
The Underground Cable Rack system comes in five distinct styles: T-Slot Channel, T-Section, Nob-Loc, H-Slot, and Heavy Channel. They are manufactured from hot-rolled steel channel with T-slots spaced at 1.5-inch intervals for attaching hooks. The racks feature mounting slots at each end that allow multiple units to interlock, creating extended support runs.
Underground Cable Racks include specialized cable hooks that protect cables from potential damage during installation and maintenance. These hooks fit securely into the rack’s T-slots and feature turned-up ends to prevent cable slippage. The racks come in various lengths from 15 to 48 inches with different hole configurations to accommodate diverse installation requirements.
Features:
• Interlocking end slots enable combining multiple racks into single units
• Hot-dip galvanized finish provides superior corrosion resistance
• T-slot design allows flexible hook placement at 1.5-inch intervals
• Available in multiple lengths with 8, 12, 14, 16, or 18 mounting holes
• Compatible with various support hooks and insulator pads for different cable types
Underground Cable Rack Drawing
| Catalog No. | #of Support Holes | Overall Length | Mounting Hole Spacing | Appx.Shipping Wt. Lbs.per 100 Pcs. |
| 10A05 | 8 | 15 | 13-1/2 | 139 |
| 10B05 | 8 | 11-3/4 | 119 | |
| 10A07 | 12 | 17-3/4 | 179 | |
| 10A08 | 14 | 24 | 22-1/2 | 230 |
| 10B08 | 14 | 20-3/4 | 210 | |
| 10C08 | 15 | 22-1/4 | 225 | |
| 10A09 | 16 | 23-3/4 | 240 | |
| 10A11 | 18 | 30 | 28-1/2 | 290 |
| 10G11 | 18 | 26-3/4 | 270 | |
| 10B11 | 19 | 28-1/4 | 285 | |
| 10C11 | 20 | 29-3/4 | 300 | |
| 10D11 | 21 | 31-1/4 | 316 | |
| 10E11 | 22 | 32-3/4 | 331 | |
| 10F11 | 23 | 34-1/4 | 346 | |
| 10A12 | 24 | 35-3/4 | 361 | |
| 10B12 | 25 | 37-1/4 | 376 | |
| 10A13 | 27 | 40-1/4 | 407 | |
| 10B13 | 28 | 41-3/4 | 422 | |
| 10A14 | 32 | 47-3/4 | 482 | |
| 10A15 | 35 | 52-1/4 | 528 | |
| 10A16 | 37 | 55-1/4 | 558 | |
| 10A17 | 39 | 58-1/4 | 588 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the standard sizes available for underground cable racks?
MacLean Power underground cable racks come in three standard sizes: 15-inch (8 holes), 24-inch (14 holes), and 30-inch (18 holes). Each rack is made from 3/16 x 9/16 x 1-1/2″ hot rolled channel with T-slots spaced at 1-1/2″ intervals.
How do cable hooks attach to the underground cable racks?
Cable hooks are designed to fit snugly into the T-slots of the rack. They feature turned-up ends to prevent cables from slipping off and are formed with a generous radius to protect cables from damage. The hooks can be secured using plastic T-slot rack hook locking clips.
Can underground cable racks be combined for longer runs?
Yes, the 8, 14, and 18-hole racks have 3/4 x 19/32″ mounting slots at each end that interlock, allowing two racks to be combined as one unit. Longer racks are mounted through the T-slots for secure installation.
What is the weight capacity of different cable rack sizes?
The weight capacity varies by size: 15-inch racks weigh 150 lbs per 100 units, 24-inch racks weigh 230 lbs per 100 units, and 30-inch racks weigh 290 lbs per 100 units. These specifications ensure proper support for cable runs.
How are underground cable racks installed in manholes and vaults?
The racks are mounted using mounting slots at the ends. For wall mounting, they require support brackets. The T-slots allow for flexible hook placement, and multiple racks can be installed vertically or horizontally depending on cable routing needs.
What materials are used in underground cable rack construction?
The racks are constructed from hot-rolled steel channel and undergo galvanization for corrosion resistance. The hooks are specifically formed to protect cable insulation and prevent damage during installation and maintenance.
How do cable rack insulators work with the system?
Cable rack insulators fit between the hooks and cables to provide additional protection and electrical isolation. The turned-up ends of the hooks help prevent both cables and insulators from accidentally slipping off during installation or maintenance.
