MT32 powers up fast-track installations
28 May 2008
Marshall-Tufflex launches unique 32Amp power connection system
Every trade, electrical contracting included, wants to work more quickly and more efficiently. But while great strides have been made in fast-tracking many construction tasks, simplifying the installation of power has proved a harder nut to crack. However, as off-site and modular construction has grown in popularity, with manufacturers and contractors constantly refining the methodology for providing the fabric of these buildings in shortened timescales, the need to address the provision of power became increasingly critical; buildings could go up in double quick time but fitting out power requirements might take just as long as it did several years ago. Marshall-Tufflex, known for its market-leading cable management solutions, began researching ways of solving this problem by incorporating ‘plug and play’ technology into its systems with the aim of taking power from source and delivering it to the final outlet via plug-in connectors. A similar concept had been developed for the lighting industry using 16Amp connectors. But developing a system capable of delivering 32Amps, with a small enough connector to fit safely into floor and accessory boxes proved a challenge, even for Marshall-Tufflex’s development partner Tyco Electronics, a world-leader in connector technology. Technical expertise and clever design eventually solved the problem, and the MT32 Power Connection System was launched last year, creating much interest both in the UK and abroad.
In bringing MT32 to market we have achieved what had become somewhat of a Holy Grail within the industry – providing a 32amp power connection small enough to work safely within all manner of applications. MT32 utilises a compact in-line connector to deliver on its promises. All installers need to do is click it together, circuit test and sign-off. It is a simple concept and a straight-forward system to install.
When we discuss its possibilities with specifiers we find there is a ‘Eureka’ moment when they suddenly realise the huge potential it offers to reduce installation time. For example, our research has shown that a wiring installation that previously took 20 minutes can be reduced to five minutes or less using MT32. What’s more, its plug and play/keyed connectors cannot be installed incorrectly. MT32 comes in three variants: * A flexible cabling system. This takes power cabling through trunking to a plug and play connection in pre-wired, pre-tested accessory boxes. The three or four pole male and female mechanically keyed compact connectors click together and cannot be installed incorrectly. * An underfloor system. Floor boxes are supplied pre-wired and pre-tested with male and female connectors.
Power can be fed from the distribution unit or powertrack via flexible leads available in a variety of lengths. This system is particularly suited to irregular lay-outs and the supply feed can be daisy chained to additional boxes. * A dry-lining system. This takes cabling to fast-fit, pre-wired, pre-tested boxes installed in dry wall board up to 32mm thickness. Boxes feature a wide securing flange around the outer rim assisting in alignment and positioning and also incorporate fire and sound proofing barrier pads. Not only is the system eminently suitable for new-build and retrofit situations across all manner of build projects, for example schools, hospitals and other healthcare facilities, offices, call centres and even exhibition spaces, it is perfect for use within modular and pre-fabricated buildings simply because of the ease of connection and time savings it delivers, both prerequisites of this kind of construction. Modular buildings are pre-fabricated in a factory where a production line approach to build often takes place.
Components that are pre-assembled, factory tested and safety keyed, like MT32, and that can be quickly connected assist in speeding hand-over. Labour used in the construction of modular builds can be multi-tasked, with a less skilled person installing MT32 ready for a qualified electrician to complete and test. In short, MT32 is a modular power connection system that delivers tool-free, fast-track installation of complete cabling runs from power source to final outlet. It needs no on-site wiring, allowing installers to simply click it together, circuit test and sign-off. Installation times can be reduced by up to 80%, with overall cost savings of up to 50% possible.
What’s more – and unlike traditional wiring – it can be reconfigured (for example during office moves), stripped out (for example during refurbishments) and re-used, more clever benefits for price-conscious clients and those wishing to reduce construction waste. And, when specified with an underfloor distribution system, MT32 can deliver greater design flexibility than existing powertrack options, allowing a larger floor area to be accommodated from the distribution unit – Marshall-Tufflex believes coverage can be increased by up to three times. It is, quite simply, a revolutionary prospect for an electrical industry looking at ways to meet the shortages of skilled labour, spiralling costs and increased safety standards. MT32 has been developed to interact with virtually any wiring system and is compatible with Marshall-Tufflex’s Odyssey three-compartment trunking, the first completely curved cable management system on the market, and with its established Sterling trunking system.
