Plastic trunking ina commercial kitchen possible?

[kohimoji25]

About to wire up a kitchen and the walls are are all finished so running cables high up is my only option. Now im puzzled if I really need to use metal trunking or conduit, or if a plastic trunking would be acceptable for the runs in the seatingg area and toilet. Im also wondering, can I run some kind of trunking on the floor and then use metal sockets right under the appliances since the floors already tiled up. Any help in this kind of situation? Desperate here.

 

[Stanstan]

Plastic trunking is fine for most areas, but metal conduit is better for exposed or high risk spots like near appliances. Running trunking along the floor is okay, but check local codes for using metal sockets under appliances, especially for safety.

 

[Ground3dGuy]

That's a great question! I've tackled similar tight retrofits before. For general runs, plastic trunking is great, especially in seating areas and places that don't get wet. However, when it comes to areas near appliances, metal conduit or armored cable is a better and often code-required choice in many locations. Trunking along the floor can also be an option, as long as it's well-secured and in a low-traffic area. Just make sure to check your local regulations regarding floor runs and the types of appliance sockets required, it could help you avoid some hassle down the line.

 

[PGB1]

Is this a commercial kitchen? Depending on your local code, plastic might not be allowed in places of assembly unless underground or above a fire rated ceiling- or not at all. It would be wise to ask.

Sometimes, when the floors and walls are finished but appearance is important a good work-around is a column. We would run EMT above the ceiling and duck down into a square stainless steel column ore brass or stainless tube. Often the column would end on a work surface & be attached with a flange. We would cut an appropriate hole in the surface and send the wiring below. Usually, inside the column was MC cable for easy working.

For running on the floor, it would be wise to check with your location's version of OSHA. We want to avoid trip hazards. For commercial kitchens, we also want to avoid creating an uncleanable area. Maybe running along the wall a few inches up would be possible & allowed.

If the floor runs are under fixed-in-place appliances or counters, you may be able to put Minnerallac type hangers on the floor and install the conduit in them.

And, it may be prohibited to put the receptacle outlets facing ups under the appliances. Check your local codes.

Maybe something above would be helpful.
Paul