Cable management essentials for control panel builders

If you build or wire control panels, tidy routing and reliable terminations save time and reduce call backs.   We supply the consumables panel builders use every day, and this guide covers the essentials, with a simple checklist you can use when restocking.

A quick checklist for tidy, serviceable panels

• Neat routing that is easy to follow during testing and fault finding
• Secure fixing without crushing insulation or cutting into cable jackets
• Clear identification so changes and maintenance are simple
• Protection where cables pass through sharp edges, enclosures, or moving doors

Routing and securing inside the panel

Most panels use a mix of cable ties and fixing points to keep looms tidy and serviceable.For general bundling, start with a good range of sizes and add specialist options where needed.   

• Cable ties for internal looms, a mix of small, medium, and heavy duty sizes
• Releasable cable ties for temporary looms and rework
• Cable tie bases for fixing to panels and back plates
• Cable tie saddles where a more secure fixing point is needed
• Cable marker ties for quick identification

 Do not over tighten. A firm hold is usually better than maximum tension, especially on smaller conductors.If you need to reopen a loom during commissioning, releasable ties can save a lot of time.   

Termination and finishing that looks professional

 A neat panel often comes down to consistent terminations. Ferrules help prevent stray strands and create a tidy finish, especially in terminal blocks and control gear.   

• Bootlace ferrules for clean terminations into terminal blocks
• Twin bootlace ferrules for two conductors into one terminal
• Crimp terminals for reliable connections and repairs
• Crimping tools matched to the terminal type

Bootlace ferrules are available with French and German colour coding. The colour can differ between systems for the same cable size, so always select by conductor size in mm² first, then choose the colour coding standard you prefer.  

Keeping ferrule sizes organised and using the right crimp tool makes panel work faster and more consistent, especially when you are repeating the same terminations across multiple builds.  

Protection and insulation

 Heat shrink, conduit, and tape help protect conductors and improve long term reliability, especially where cables pass through cut outs, doors, or tight bends. These are small items, but they make a big difference to the finish.   

• Heat shrink tubing for insulation and strain relief
• Heat shrink crimp terminals where a sealed termination is preferred
• Conduit for routing and abrasion resistance
• PVC insulation tape for finishing and harnessing

Quick restock checklist

Use this as a simple shopping list when you are topping up consumables.    

• Cable ties in the sizes you use most often
• Releasable cable ties for commissioning, testing, and rework
• Cable tie bases and cable tie saddles for fixing points to back plates and enclosures
• Cable marker ties for quick identification and tidy labelling
• Bootlace ferrules and twin bootlace ferrules
• Crimp terminals you use most often, plus the correct crimping tool for the terminal type
• Heat shrink tubing and heat shrink crimp terminals where a sealed termination is preferred
• Conduit and PVC insulation tape for protection and finishing

Common mistakes that make panels harder to maintain 

• Over tightened ties that pinch insulation or deform smaller conductors
• No strain relief near door hinges and gland plates
• Unterminated strands in terminals instead of using ferrules
• Skipping protection at sharp edges and cut outs

Need a reliable trade supplier

 Just Cable Ties is a family business with over 40 years of hands on experience in cable management. We supply trade packs, bulk pricing, and fast UK delivery, with straightforward support when you need it.   

If you are restocking for a job, you can browse by product type using the links above and order in trade packs for quick delivery.