Cable ladder systems

Mounting instructions

Building Connections
Table of contents

Cable ladder systems

Mounting instructions

© 2021 OBO Bettermann Holding GmbH & Co. KG

Reprinting, even of extracts, as well as photographic or electronic reproduction are prohibited!

2 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Table of contents

Table of contents

1 About these instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

1.1 Target group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.2 Using these instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.3 Types of safety information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.4 Correct use. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.5 Ambient conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.6 Applicable documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.7 Basic standards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2 General safety information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

3 Information on the product. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

4 System components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
4.1 Cable ladders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
4.1.1 Cable ladder load capacity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
4.2 Fittings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
4.2.1 90° bend. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
4.2.2 T piece. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4.2.3 Mounting/branch piece. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
4.2.4 Articulated bend. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
4.3 Connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
4.3.1 Straight connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.3.2 Angle connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.3.3 Adjustable connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.3.4 Connector for expansion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.3.5 Multifunctional connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.4 Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.4.1 Mounting material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.4.2 Barrier strip. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
4.4.3 Covers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
4.4.4 Connection piece/support profile/drop-out plate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
4.4.5 Clamp clip. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
4.4.6 Miscellaneous. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

5 Mounting cable ladders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

5.1 Opening the cable ladder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
5.2 Cutting the cable ladder to size. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
5.3 Mounting the cable ladder on a support system. . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
5.3.1 Mounting the cable ladder on the wall and support bracket . . . . . . . . . . . 21
5.3.2 Mounting the cable ladder on the steel girder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

6 Connecting cable ladders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

6.1 Connecting cable ladders with straight connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . 23
6.1.1 Inserting connectors for expansion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
6.2 Connecting cable ladders with angle connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
6.3 Connecting cable ladders with adjustable connectors . . . . . . . . . . 26

7 Connecting cable ladders and fittings. . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

7.1 Support a fitting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
7.1.1 Fitting support up to 300 mm width . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
7.1.2 Fitting support from 400 mm width. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 3

Table of contents

7.2 Mounting a mounting/branch piece. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

7.3 Mounting the 90° bend and T piece. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
7.4 Mounting the articulated bend . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
7.5 Mounting the multifunctional connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
7.5.1 Mounting the multifunctional connector as a reducer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
7.5.2 Mounting the multifunctional connector as a bend. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
7.5.3 Mounting the multifunctional connector on an articulated bend . . . . . . . . . 34
7.5.4 Mounting the multifunctional connector as a mounting/branch piece. . . . . . . 36

8 Creating a T exit made of two cable ladders . . . . . . . . . . 37

8.1 Creating a T exit with a step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
8.2 Creating a T exit without a step. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
8.2.1 Mounting the corner plate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
8.2.2 Mounting the support plate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

9 Mounting the drop-out plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

10 Mounting the barrier strip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

10.1 Mounting the barrier strip without screws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
10.2 Mounting the barrier strip with screws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
10.3 Connecting barrier strips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

11 Mounting the cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

11.1 Mounting the cover with turn buckle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
11.2 Mounting the cover with cover clamp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
11.3 Mounting the cover with spacer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
11.3.1 Mounting spacers on covers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
11.3.2 Mounting covers on cable ladders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

12 Mounting the clamp clip. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

12.1 Suspending the clamp clip in the rung slot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
12.2 Suspending the clamp clip in the rung perforation . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

13 Creating equipotential bonding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

14 Mounting end caps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

15 Dismantling cable ladder systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

16 Disposing of cable ladder systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

4 | EN OBO Bettermann
 About these instructions

1 About these instructions

1.1 Target group

These mounting instructions are intended for:
– Engineers and architects charged with the planning of cable ladder
systems.
– Electrically trained specialists charged with mounting cable ladder
systems.

1.2 Using these instructions

• These instructions are based on the standards valid at the time of
compilation (September 2021).
• Before commencing work, read these instructions through once com-
pletely. Observe the safety information.
• Keep all the documents supplied with the system in an easily accessi-
ble location, so that it is accessible when needed.
• We will not accept any warranty claims for damage caused through
non-observance of these instructions.
• Any images are intended merely as examples. Mounting results may
look different.

1.3 Types of safety information

Type of risk!
WARNING Shows a possibly risky situation. If the situation is not avoided, then death
or serious injury may result.

Type of risk!
CAUTION Shows a possibly risky situation. If the situation is not avoided, then light
or minor injury or damage to property may result.

Type of risk!
ATTENTION Shows a possibly hazardous situation. If the situation is not avoided, then
damage to the product or the surroundings may occur.

Note! Indicates important information or assistance!

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 5

General safety information

1.4 Correct use

The cable ladder system is used for supporting and routing all types
of cables. Depending on the corrosion protection used, it can be used
indoors and outdoors.
The cable ladder system is not designed for any other purpose than the
one described here. If the cable ladder system is used for another pur-
pose, any liability, warranty or damage claims shall be rendered null and
void.

1.5 Ambient conditions

The cable ladder system is suitable for use at ambient temperatures of
‒20 °C to +120 °C. At temperatures below ‒20 °C, the material will be-
come brittle and may not be processed further.

1.6 Applicable documents

KTS mounting instructions ‒ applicable for all OBO cable support sys-
tems:
https://obo-bettermann.com/article/display/en-wo/cable-ladder-lg-60-ns-2.html
→ Technical information → Technical documents
Mounting instructions for different support structures:
– U support systems, see
www.obo.de/out/media/04-150_MA_U_support_systems.pdf
– I support systems, see
www.obo.de/out/media/04-150_MA_I_support_systems.pdf
– Universal systems, see
www.obo.de/out/media/04-150_MA_Universal_systems.pdf
– Trapezoidal systems, see
www.obo.de/out/media/04-150_MA_TP_support_systems.pdf
– Clamp fastenings, see
www.obo.de/out/media/04-150_MA_Clamp_fastening_systems.pdf

1.7 Basic standards

The cable ladder system fulfils the requirements of
DIN EN 61537 VDE 0639:2007-09 – Cable management ‒ Cable tray
systems and cable ladder systems.

2 General safety information

Observe the following general safety information on handling the cable

ladder system:
– Follow applicable working, accident and environmental protection
regulations.
– Protective gloves must be worn during all mechanical mounting work.
– The cable ladder system should be included in the protective meas-
ures and the equipotential bonding.
– The inclusion in the equipotential bonding of the overall system must

6 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Information on the product

be performed by specialist personnel.

– The support system of the cable ladders must be designed according
to the loads to be expected.
– The maximum load capacity of the cable support system may not be
exceeded.

3 Information on the product

OBO cable ladder systems stand out through their high load capacity and
good ventilation. They are thus particularly suited to the installation of
power cables and cables with large cross-sections.
They can be used universally. Due to their continuous rail and rung
perforation, they offer countless mounting options, e.g. integrated fasten-
ing of cables on the rungs using OBO clamp clips.

4 System components

4.1 Cable ladders

Cable ladders are available in riveted and welded versions.

1
2

Figure 1: Cable ladders

1 Lower flange
2 Slot
3 Rung (welded)
4 Perforation
5 Rail
6 Rounded top edge of the rail

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 7

System components

4.1.1 Cable ladder load capacity

The approved load capacity of the individual cable ladders can be found
in the appropriate load diagrams in the current planner catalogue.
https://obo-bettermann.com/en-wo/support/3804.html
Example of LCIS 620 - 660 cable ladders in the cable ladder systems
chapter:
At a support width of 2.5 m and a load of ~ 1.3 kN/m, the rail bend by
~ 24 mm.
4

1 3

Figure 2: Load diagram LCIS 620 – 660

1 Approved cable tray/cable ladder load [kN/m]

2 Support width [m]
3 Rail bending [mm]
4 Load scheme during testing
5 Rail bend curve according to support width
6 Load curve with cable tray/cable ladder width

8 | EN OBO Bettermann
 System components

4.2 Fittings
Fittings allow vertical or horizontal changes of direction in cable ladder
systems. Fittings and cable ladders are mounted with connectors. The
equipotential bonding takes place via the screw connection.

Note! Fittings must always be supported in the centre!

4.2.1 90° bend

The 90° bend connects two cable ladders of the same width, which are
at an angle of 90° to one another in the horizontal. The standard system
radius of the bend is 300 mm.

Figure 3: 90° bend

1 Perforation for connector fastening

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 9

System components

4.2.2 T piece
The T piece connects three cable ladders of the same width, which con-
nect in the horizontal. This creates a 90° branch. The standard system
radius of the T piece is 300 mm.

Figure 4: T piece

1 Perforation for connector fastening

4.2.3 Mounting/branch piece

The mounting/branch piece is inserted in a cable ladder with its integrated
connectors. This creates a 90° branch. The cable ladder and mounting/
branch piece can be of different widths. In combination with a second
mounting/branch piece, a symmetrical or asymmetrical cross-over can be
created. The standard system radius of the mounting/branch piece is
300 mm.

Figure 5: Mounting/branch piece

1 Integrated connector
2 Perforation for connector fastening

10 | EN OBO Bettermann
 System components

4.2.4 Articulated bend

The articulated bend is comprised of multiple articulated bend elements.
Different bend radii are achieved, depending on the number of articulated
bend elements used. The articulated bend connects a horizontal cable
ladder with a vertical one or compensates for a height offset between two
horizontal cable ladders. The articulated bend is constructed in such a
way that half an adjustable connector is required for each connection with
the cable ladder.

1
2

3 5

7
4

Figure 6: Articulated bend

1 Articulated bend element

2 Curved slot
3 Mounted articulated bend (horizontal/vertical connection)
4 Half adjustable connector
5 Mounted articulated bend (height offset)
6 Securing screw
7 Hinge screw

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 11

System components

4.3 Connector
The following parts can be interconnected using connectors:
– Cable ladder with cable ladder
– Cable ladder with fitting
– Fitting with fitting

Note! Fastening material is included with the connectors.

Note! Cable ladders and fittings are referred to as elements below.

1 4 5 6 7

Figure 7: Connector

1 Connector for expansion

2 Fixed bearing
3 Moveable bearing
4 Adjustable connector
5 Angle connector
6 Straight connector, height 60 mm
7 Straight connector, height 110 mm
8 Multifunctional connector

12 | EN OBO Bettermann
 System components

4.3.1 Straight connector

The straight connector connects elements located in the same direction.

4.3.2 Angle connector

The angle connector allows a horizontal change of direction between two
elements.

4.3.3 Adjustable connector

The adjustable connector allows a vertical change of direction between
two elements.

4.3.4 Connector for expansion

The connector for expansion is used on long cable ladder sections, in
order to compensate for the temperature-dependent expansion of the
cable ladder sections.
– Fixed bearings are screwed on with the standard tightening torque.
– Moveable bearings are hand-tightened, in order to give the connection
the necessary movement to expand.

Note! Determination of the spacing of the connectors for expansion to be used,

see "KTS mounting instructions – Applicable to all OBO cable support
systems":

https://obo-bettermann.com/article/display/en-wo/cable-ladder-lg-60-ns-2.html

→ Technical information → Technical documents

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 13

System components

4.3.5 Multifunctional connector

The multifunctional connector unifies the properties of fittings and con-
nectors. Elements can be connected easy. The side rails of the multifunc-
tional connector can be adjusted to any angle and any installation situa-
tion, so that both symmetrical and asymmetrical reductions are possible.
In connection with an adjustable connector, vertical changes of direction
are also possible.

5 4

Figure 8: Multifunctional connector

1 Multifunctional connector
2 Multifunctional connection as asymmetrical reduction
3 Multifunctional connector as symmetrical reduction
4 Multifunctional connector as mounting/branch piece
5 Multifunctional connector as bend 0–60°

14 | EN OBO Bettermann
 System components

4.4 Accessories

4.4.1 Mounting material

Horizontal cable ladder system can be mounted on brackets or directly on
steel girders. Depending on the support type, different mounting material
is required for fastening.

1 2

Figure 9: Mounting material

1 LKS clamping piece for mounting on brackets

2 KLL clamping piece for mounting on steel girders

4.4.2 Barrier strip

Barrier strips separate cables of different voltages or functions in cable
ladder systems. Barrier strips are fastened to the rungs of the cable lad-
ders. They can be screwed or clamped on. Two barrier strips are connect-
ed with a barrier strip connector.

1
2

Figure 10: Barrier strip with components

1 Barrier strip
2 Barrier strip connector
3 Clamping piece for barrier strip fastening

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 15

System components

4.4.3 Covers
Covers protect cables against dirt, dust and damage. The covers are
constructed in such a way that cable ladders and fittings, including the
connectors, are fully covered. Covers are offered in three variants:
– Cover with turn buckle
– Cover with cover clamp
– Cover with spacer
Turn buckles and cover clamps clamp the cover directly to the rail of a
cable ladder.
Spacers allow good ventilation of the cable ladder systems and the use of
clamp clips.
If covers are used outdoors, then measures against the influence of wind
must be taken.

1 3 5

2 4 6

Figure 11: Covers

1 Cover with turn buckle

2 Turn buckle
3 Cover for cover clamp
4 Cover clamp
5 Cover for spacer
6 Spacer

16 | EN OBO Bettermann
 System components

4.4.4 Connection piece/support profile/drop-out plate

T exits in existing cable support systems can be created with connection
pieces or support angles.
– Support angles create branches in cable ladders with a different
height level.
– Connection pieces create branches in cable ladders with the same
height level.
If cable ladders at the same height level are connected, then the support
surface can be expanded to protect the cables:
– With a support plate.
– With a corner plate.
Vertical branches from cable ladders can be fitted with drop-out plates to
protect cables. The drop-out plates increase the support surface and are
mounted on the rung of the cable ladder.

1 2 3 4 5

Figure 12: Connection piece/support profile/drop-out plate

1 Support angle LAW

2 Connection piece LAS
3 Support plate LALB
4 Corner plate LEB
5 Exit plate LAB
6 Clamping piece

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 17

System components

4.4.5 Clamp clip

Clamp clips are used for the fixed-location mounting of individual cables
on the rungs of a cable ladder. The rung of the welded cable ladder can
be equipped on both sides. The rung of the riveted cable ladder can be
equipped on one side.

Figure 13: Clamp clip with welded cable ladder

1 Clamp clip
2 Pressure trough

18 | EN OBO Bettermann
 System components

4.4.6 Miscellaneous
Earthing terminal
Depending on the mounting situation, equipotential bonding with the over-
all system may be required, see DIN EN 61537 VDE 0639:2007-09.

Note! OBO Bettermann recommends always creating equipotential bonding to

the overall system.

End cap
To protect the cables, the open cable ladder ends can each be covered
with an end cap.

Note! OBO Bettermann recommends always placing an end cap on all cable
ladder ends.

Figure 14: Earthing terminal, end caps

1 Earthing terminal
2 End caps

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 19

Mounting cable ladders

5 Mounting cable ladders

Cable damage through incorrectly set screw connections!

ATTENTION Sharp-edged threads can damage cables.
– Always insert bolts from the inside to the outside of the rail or rung of
the cable ladder and screw on the nut from outside.

5.1 Opening the cable ladder

To save space, riveted cable ladders are supplied folded up and must be
opened before mounting. With a sufficient ceiling height, the cable ladder
can be erected vertically. If the ceiling height is insufficient or the cable
ladders are long, then horizontal opening against a wall is recommended.

Risk of trapping through moving rungs!

Hands can be trapped on opening the cable ladder.
CAUTION – On opening, only hold the rails on the outsides.

Figure 15: Opening the cable ladder vertically

Opening vertically
1. Place the cable ladder on the floor.
2. Pull down the opened rail until both rails are on the floor.
Opening horizontally
1. Place the cable ladder on the floor and support it against a wall.
2. Pull the opened rail against the wall until both rails touch the wall.

20 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Mounting cable ladders

5.2 Cutting the cable ladder to size

Note! Cut the cable ladders according to the local circumstances.

Risk of cutting!
CAUTION During cutting work, metal chips or sharp cut edges can cause injuries to
eyes and hands!
– Wear protective glasses and gloves.
– Deburr cut edges.
1. Cut cable ladders to the desired length, e.g. using an angle grinder.
2. Deburr cut edges.

Note! In the case of cable ladders for use outdoors, the corrosion protection at
the cut edges must be renewed with zinc spray, e.g. type ZSF, art. no.
2362970.

5.3 Mounting the cable ladder on a support system

5.3.1 Mounting the cable ladder on the wall and support bracket

Figure 16: Mounting with clamping piece LKS

1. Place the cable ladder on the bracket.

2. Place the clamping piece on the lower flange of the cable ladder in the
area of the bracket. The square perforation of the clamping piece must
be located over a slot in the bracket.
3. Insert the truss-head bolt from above through the clamping piece and
slot of the bracket.
4. Screw on the clamping piece with a nut.

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 21

Connecting cable ladders

5.3.2 Mounting the cable ladder on the steel girder

Figure 17: Mounting with clamping piece KLL

1. Place the cable ladder on the steel girder.

2. Unscrew the bolt from the clamping piece and leave the locknut on the
bolt.
3. Push the clamping piece on the lower flange and side rail of the steel
girder.
4. Screw the clamping piece with bolt onto the steel girder.
5. Secure the bolt with a locknut.

6 Connecting cable ladders

Cable damage through incorrectly set screw connections!

ATTENTION Sharp-edged threads can damage cables.
– Always insert bolts from the inside to the outside of the rail or rung of
the cable ladder and screw on the nut from outside.

Usually, two connectors are required per connection. Bolts and nuts must
be tightened with the torque to be complied with.
Torques and resistance classes of the supplied bolts:
KTS mounting instructions – applicable to all OBO cable support sys-
tems:
https://obo-bettermann.com/article/display/en-wo/cable-ladder-lg-60-ns-2.html
→ Technical information → Technical documents

22 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Connecting cable ladders

6.1 Connecting cable ladders with straight connectors

Figure 18: Mounting the cable ladders with straight connectors ‒ rail height
60 mm

Note! In the case of cable ladder systems with a 110 mm rail height, all the con-
nectors must be mounted with the double amount of screw connections.
The arrangement of the bolts is identical for:
– Straight connectors
– Angle connectors
– Adjustable connectors

Figure 19: Mounting the cable ladders with straight connectors ‒ rail height
110 mm

1. Place the elements so that they abut.

2. Suspend the straight connectors in the middle of the element joint and
fold them down.
3. Connect the straight connectors and elements using the supplied bolts
and nuts.

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 23

Connecting cable ladders

6.1.1 Inserting connectors for expansion

Material damage through thermal expansion!

ATTENTION If long cable ladder sections are mounted without sufficient connections
for expansion, sagging will occur due to the thermal expansion of the
material.
– Use connectors at regular intervals according to the temperature devi-
ations to be expected.

Calculating the thermal length expansion:

KTS mounting instructions ‒ applicable for all OBO cable support sys-
tems:
Difference between the highest Maximum spacing
and lowest metal temperature to be of the connectors for expansion [m]
expected [°C]
10 70
25 47
40 35
50 28
65 23
80 20
If necessary, you can find further information via the following link:
https://obo-bettermann.com/article/display/en-wo/cable-ladder-lg-60-ns-2.html
→ Technical information → Technical documents

Figure 20: Mounting connectors for expansion

1. Place the cable ladders on the joint.

2. Suspend the connectors for expansion in the middle of the cable lad-
ders and fold them down.
3. Connect the connectors for expansion and cable ladders to the side of
the fixed bearing using the supplied bolts.
4. Connect the connectors for expansion and cable ladders to the side of
the moveable bearing to hand tightness using the supplied bolts.

24 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Connecting cable ladders

6.2 Connecting cable ladders with angle connectors

Risk of cutting!
CAUTION During cutting work, metal chips or sharp cut edges can cause injuries to
eyes and hands!
– Wear protective glasses and gloves.
– Deburr cut edges.

Note! In the case of cable ladders for use outdoors, the corrosion protection at
the cut edges must be renewed with zinc spray, e.g. type ZSF, art. no.
2362970.

Figure 21: Mounting angle connectors

1. Suspend the angle connectors on the first cable ladder and fold it
down.
2. Screw on the angle connector.
3. Bend the angle connector into the desired angle.
4. Shorten the rail 1 according to the desired angle.
5. Push the second cable ladder into the connector and screw it on.

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 25

Connecting cable ladders

6.3 Connecting cable ladders with adjustable connectors

Figure 22: Mounting adjustable connectors

1. Suspend the adjustable connector on the first cable ladder and fold it
down.
2. Slacken the hinge screw.
3. Bend the adjustable connector into the desired angle and screw the
hinge screw tight.
4. Fix the angle using the locking screw through the bent slot or any hole
in the circle of holes.
5. Push the second cable ladder into the connector and screw it on.

26 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Connecting cable ladders and fittings

7 Connecting cable ladders and fittings

Cable damage through incorrectly set screw connections!

ATTENTION Sharp-edged threads can damage cables.
– Always insert bolts from the inside to the outside of the rail or rung of
the cable ladder and screw on the nut from outside.

7.1 Support a fitting

Fittings must always be supported by the support system. The mounting
of the different support systems is shown in special mounting instructions,
see „1.6 Applicable documents“ on page 6.

Risk of the support system falling!

CAUTION If fittings are not supported, cable loads can become too heavy, desta-
bilising the entire support system. There is a risk of the support system
falling. Depending on their width, support the fittings with an additional
support element

7.1.1 Fitting support up to 300 mm width

Up to a width of 300 mm, mounting of one support of the cable ladders at
a distance of 250–300 mm from the edge of the fitting is sufficient.

00 25
-3 0-3
0 00
25

Figure 23: Example of 90° bend fitting support up to a width of 300 mm

1. Support the fitting with a support structure at a distance of 250–300

mm from the edge.

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 27

Connecting cable ladders and fittings

7.1.2 Fitting support from 400 mm width

From a width of 400 mm, support of the cable ladders is mounted at a
distance of 250–300 mm from the edge of the fitting. From a width of 400
mm, a support element must additionally be mounted under the fitting
when the system is fully assigned. With fittings of a width of > 400 mm, an
additional support element must always be mounted under the fitting.

00
0-3
25 25
0-3
00

Figure 24: Example of 90° bend fitting support from a width of 400 mm

1. Support the fitting with a support structure at a distance of 250–300

mm from the edge.
2. Mount an additional support element under the fitting.

28 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Connecting cable ladders and fittings

7.2 Mounting a mounting/branch piece

Risk of cutting!
CAUTION During cutting work, metal chips or sharp cut edges can cause injuries to
eyes and hands!
– Wear protective glasses and gloves.
– Deburr cut edges.

Note! In the case of cable ladders for use outdoors, the corrosion protection at
the cut edges must be renewed with zinc spray, e.g. type ZSF, art. no.
2362970.

Figure 25: Notching cable ladders

1. Notch the cable ladder to the width of the mounting/branch piece

(width without integrated connector). In so doing, leave the lower
flange alone.

Figure 26: Inserting the mounting/branch piece in the cable ladder

2. Suspend the mounting/branch piece with integrated connector in the

cable ladder and fold it downwards.
3. Screw the mounting/branch piece to the cable ladder.

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 29

Connecting cable ladders and fittings

Figure 27: Attaching the cable ladder

4. Place the second cable ladder so that it abuts the mounting/branch

piece.
5. Suspend the straight connectors in the middle of the element joint and
fold them down.
6. Connect the straight connectors and elements using the supplied bolts
and nuts.

30 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Connecting cable ladders and fittings

7.3 Mounting the 90° bend and T piece

Figure 28: Mounting the 90° bend

Figure 29: Mounting the T piece

1. Place the elements so that they abut.

2. Suspend the straight connectors in the middle of the element joint and
fold them down.
3. Connect the straight connectors and elements using the supplied bolts
and nuts.

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 31

Connecting cable ladders and fittings

7.4 Mounting the articulated bend

Number of articulated bend ele-
Bend radius [~ mm]
ments
1 300
2 450
3 600
4 750
5 900

Figure 30: Mounting the articulated bend

1. Connect the required number of articulated bend elements into an

articulated bend using hinge screws.
2. Align the articulated bend to the bend radius.
3. Screw the articulation screws tight.
4. Fix all the connections, each using a locking screw through the bent
slot or any hole in the circle of holes.
5. Screw each half of an adjustable connector to each rail of the articu-
lated bend and fix each using a locking screw through the bent slot or
any hole in the circle of holes.
6. Push the articulated bend on the first cable ladder and screw it on.
7. Push the second cable ladder into the articulated bend and screw it
on.

32 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Connecting cable ladders and fittings

7.5 Mounting the multifunctional connector

Risk of trapping through moving rungs!

CAUTION Hands can be trapped on opening the multifunctional connector.
– On opening, only hold the rails on the outsides.

Note! With asymmetrical reductions, different side lengths are produced on the
multifunctional connector. Accordingly, the elements to be installed should
therefore be shortened asymmetrically.

Risk of cutting!
CAUTION During cutting work, metal chips or sharp cut edges can cause injuries to
eyes and hands!
– Wear protective glasses and gloves.
– Deburr cut edges.

Note! Always screw the multifunction connector onto the element from outside.

Note! In the case of cable ladders for use outdoors, the corrosion protection at
the cut edges must be renewed with zinc spray, e.g. type ZSF, art. no.
2362970.

7.5.1 Mounting the multifunctional connector as a reducer

Figure 31: Mounting an asymmetrical reduction with multifunctional connector

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 33

Connecting cable ladders and fittings

Figure 32: Mounting a symmetrical reduction with multifunctional connector

1. Bend the multifunctional connector into the desired shape.

2. Screw the multifunctional connector to the first cable ladder.
3. If necessary, shorten the second cable ladder on one side.
4. Screw the second cable ladder to the multifunctional connector.

7.5.2 Mounting the multifunctional connector as a bend

Figure 33: Mounting the multifunctional connector as a bend

1. Bend the multifunctional connector into the desired shape.

2. Screw the multifunctional connector to the first cable ladder.
3. If necessary, shorten the second cable ladder on one side.
4. Screw the second cable ladder to the multifunctional connector.

7.5.3 Mounting the multifunctional connector on an articulated bend

34 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Connecting cable ladders and fittings

Figure 34: Mounting the multifunctional connector on an articulated bend

1. Using hinge screws, screw the articulated bend to the multifunctional

connector.
2. Fix all the connections, each using a locking screw through the bent
slot or any hole in the circle of holes.

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 35

Connecting cable ladders and fittings

7.5.4 Mounting the multifunctional connector as a mounting/branch

piece

Figure 35: Notching cable ladders

Figure 36: Mounting the multifunctional connector as a mounting/branch piece

1. Notch out the first connector at the width of the multifunctional con-
nector. In so doing, leave the lower flange alone.
2. Bend the multifunctional connector into shape.
3. Screw the multifunctional connector to the first cable ladder.
4. Screw the second cable ladder to the multifunctional connector.

36 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Creating a T exit made of two cable ladders

8 Creating a T exit made of two cable ladders

8.1 Creating a T exit with a step

Figure 37: Creating a T exit with a support angle

1. Loosen the glands of the support angle.

2. Suspend two support angles on the first cable ladder.
3. Place the second cable ladder on the support angle.
4. Position the support angle so that the slots of the support angle are
not covered by the lower flange of the second cable ladder.
5. Attach the clamping piece.
6. Pass the bolt through the clamping piece and support angle from
above.
7. Using a nut, screw the clamping piece to the support angle. In so
doing, clamp the lower flange.

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 37

Creating a T exit made of two cable ladders

8.2 Creating a T exit without a step

Figure 38: Creating a T exit with a connection piece

1. Loosen the glands of the connection pieces.

2. Suspend two connection pieces on the first cable ladder.
3. Place the second cable ladder on the connection pieces.
4. Position the connection pieces so that the slots of the connection
piece are not covered by the lower flange of the second cable ladder.
5. Attach the clamping piece.
6. Pass the bolt through the clamping piece and connection piece from
above.
7. Using a nut, screw the clamping piece to the support angle, thus
clamping the lower flange.

38 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Creating a T exit made of two cable ladders

8.2.1 Mounting the corner plate

Figure 39: Mounting the corner plate

1. Place the corner plate on the corner of two cable ladders of equal
height.
2. Bend the clamping lugs.

8.2.2 Mounting the support plate

Figure 40: Mounting the support plate

1. Attach the support plate to the cable ladder. The slanting side points
towards the junction.
2. Drill fastening holes in the rail and screw on the support plate.

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 39

Mounting the drop-out plate

9 Mounting the drop-out plate

Figure 41: Mounting the drop-out plate

1. Place the drop-out plate on the rung and screw it on.

10 Mounting the barrier strip

10.1 Mounting the barrier strip without screws

Figure 42: Clamping the barrier strip

1. Place the clamping pieces on the rungs and clamp them to the rungs
with a rotation of 90°.
2. Lock the barrier strip in.

40 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Mounting the barrier strip

10.2 Mounting the barrier strip with screws

Figure 43: Screwing on the barrier strip

1. Place the barrier strip on the rungs and screw it on.

10.3 Connecting barrier strips

Figure 44: Connecting barrier strips

1. Engage the barrier strip connector in the middle of the joint of two
barrier strips.

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 41

Mounting the cover

11 Mounting the cover

11.1 Mounting the cover with turn buckle

Figure 45: Mounting the cover with turn buckle

1. Place the cover on the cable ladder.

2. Using a screwdriver, lock the turn buckle in a clockwise direction.

42 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Mounting the cover

11.2 Mounting the cover with cover clamp

Figure 46: Mounting the cover with cover clamp

1. Place the cover on the cable ladder.

2. Using the cover clamp, clamp the cover to the cable ladder.

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 43

Mounting the cover

11.3 Mounting the cover with spacer

Mounting spacers

2 3

1
4

Figure 47: Mounting spacers

1 Cover holder
2 Round hole for second bolt
3 Slot for first bolt
4 Cover clamp
5 Hook
1. Pass the first bolt with washer through the slot of the cover holder and,
using the cover clamp, screw it together with a few turns. In so doing,
the cover clamp must remain fully mobile. The hooks of the cover
clamp point towards the cover holder.

44 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Mounting the cover

11.3.1 Mounting spacers on covers

Figure 48: Mounting spacers on covers

1. Position the cover with the inner side pointing up.

2. Position a spacer above a double hole in the cover. Place the first bolt
of the spacer in the first hole of the cover. The cover holder points
upwards; the cover clamp points inward.
3. Run the second bolt with the washer through the small hole in the
cover from below and screw it to the round hole of the spacer.
4. Mount all the further spacers on the cover according to the same
principle.

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 45

Mounting the cover

11.3.2 Mounting covers on cable ladders

Figure 49: Mounting covers on cable ladders

1. Turn the cover around and place it on the cable ladder with the
spacers, until the cover clamps engage under the rounded edges of
the rails.
2. Tighten all the first screws. The hooks of the cover clamps are fixed
under the rounded edges of the rails.
3. With vertically routed cable ladders: Using bolts through the square
holes of the cover holders and the slots in the cable ladder rail, secure
the cover against slipping.

46 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Mounting the clamp clip

12 Mounting the clamp clip

Figure 50: Mounting the clamp clip – 1 in the slot, 2 in the perforation

12.1 Suspending the clamp clip in the rung slot

1. Place the cable on the cable ladder and surround it with the clamp
clip.
2. Hook the large hook of the clamp clip on one side of the slit.
3. Swivel the clamp clip and hook in small hooks on the other side of the
slot.
4. Screw the pressure trough against the cables.

12.2 Suspending the clamp clip in the rung perforation

1. Position the cable under the cable ladder and surround it with the
clamp clip.
2. Hook the large hook of the clamp clip on one side of the perforation.
3. Swivel the clamp clip and hook in small hooks on the other side of the
perforation.
4. Screw the pressure trough against the cables.

Note! If the cable ladder is used as a vertical ladder, the large hooks must point
upwards if they are hung in the slot or perforation of the rung.

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 47

Creating equipotential bonding

13 Creating equipotential bonding

Risk from lightning strike!

WARNING A lack of equipotential bonding can, in cases of damage, mean that parts
of the cable ladder system may be energised. If contact creates a con-
ductive connection, this can lead to fatal injuries.
– Creating equipotential bonding.

Figure 51: Mounting the earthing terminal

1. Screw the earthing terminal to the rail of the cable ladder.

2. Electrically connect the earthing terminal to the overall equipotential
bonding.

48 | EN OBO Bettermann
 Mounting end caps

14 Mounting end caps

Figure 52: Mounting end caps

1. Push end caps onto the ends of the elements.

15 Dismantling cable ladder systems

Dismantling of all the elements of the cable ladder systems takes place in
the reverse order to mounting.

16 Disposing of cable ladder systems

1. Residual metal: As scrap metal

2. Packaging: As household waste

Comply with the local waste disposal regulations.

Mounting instructions, cable ladder systems EN | 49

50 | EN OBO BETTERMANN
System instructions, IBK in-concrete duct system EN | 51
OBO Bettermann Holding GmbH & Co. KG
P.O. Box 1120
58694 Menden
Germany

Customer Service Germany

Tel.: +49 (0)2371 7899-2000
Fax: +49 (0)2371 7899-2500
E-mail: [email protected]

www.obo-bettermann.com
OPTO 180437 Date 09/2021 EN

Building Connections