Catenary Wire

Catenary wire is a tensioned steel wire run between two fixed points to support cables, lighting or signage across a gap where there is no wall or ceiling to clip to. The range includes the Unicrimp Catenary Wire Kit with 30m of 3mm wire, plus a catenary hook plate and 6mm carabiner for anchoring and quick connections.

It is a compact selection that covers the essentials for barn, yard, warehouse and festoon runs. Order by 5pm on a working day for next-day delivery in NI and ROI, with trade pricing for account holders.

QCWK In-Stock

Unicrimp Catenary Wire Kit (3mm x 30m)

£24.72 inc. VAT

ICWH In-Stock

Catenary Hook Plate

£4.00 inc. VAT

ICCS In-Stock

6mm Carabiner

£1.58 inc. VAT

How to choose and install a catenary wire system

Catenary systems are used wherever a cable has to cross open space: between buildings, across a yard, over a warehouse floor or along a marquee or festoon run. The wire carries the mechanical load so the cable itself is not under strain.

Components of a catenary run

Catenary wire – galvanised or coated steel wire, here supplied as a 3mm x 30m kit.
End fixings – a hook plate or eye bolt securely anchored to the structure at each end.
Tensioner – a turnbuckle or wire tensioner to take out sag once the wire is fitted.
Grips and clamps – wire rope grips or ferrules to form loops at each end.
Carabiners – quick-release links useful for connecting the wire to hook plates.

Planning the span

Consider the total weight of the cable, any light fittings or signage, and wind or snow loading for outdoor runs. A 3mm wire suits light-duty applications; heavier or longer spans may need thicker wire and stronger anchor points. Keep the required clearance height above roads, driveways and walkways, and check current wiring regulations for overhead wiring.

Fixing the cable to the wire

Attach the cable at regular intervals with suitable cable ties or catenary clips, allowing a drip loop at each end where the cable leaves the wire. UV-stable ties are recommended outdoors. For runs between buildings, SWA armoured cable is commonly used, and the catenary wire may need to be bonded; check BS 7671 for your situation.

Anchoring safely

Fix end plates into sound masonry or structural steel with appropriate anchors; see heavy-duty fixings. Never anchor to fascias, gutters or weak timber.

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FAQ's Ask Your Own Question

What is a Carabiner?: Carabiners is designed in a D-shaped used to connect components swiftly and reversibly, particularly in safety-critical systems.
What can Carabiners be used for?: Carabiners can be used with catenary wires.
What is a Catenary Hook?: A galvanized wall hook plate with four mounting holes and a strong steel hook for securing catenary wire to a wall.
How much sag should a catenary wire have?: A catenary wire should be tensioned so it is reasonably taut, with a small, even sag that keeps the cable clear of obstructions and above the required clearance height. Over-tensioning puts excess load on the end fixings, while too much sag lets the cable swing in wind. Follow the kit manufacturer's guidance and allow for the added cable weight.
Does a catenary wire need to be earthed?: Depending on the installation, a metallic catenary wire may need to be earthed or bonded, particularly where it supports cables that could become live under fault conditions. The requirements depend on the cable type, the earthing arrangement and the location. Check the current edition of BS 7671 or take advice from a qualified electrician before completing the installation.
What cable can be run on a catenary wire?: Steel wire armoured (SWA) cable is common for supplies between buildings, while lighter flexible or festoon cables are used for temporary lighting and events. Data and alarm cables can also be carried. Whatever you use, choose a cable suited to outdoor exposure and UV, fix it at regular intervals and keep the correct clearance above ground.