What Are Cantilever Arms Used For? A Practical Guide for M&E Installers
Cantilever arms are widely used across building services, HVAC, and electrical containment installations. Because they offer strength, versatility and excellent compatibility with strut channel systems, they have become an essential component of everyday M&E work. Installers depend on them for supporting cable tray, mounting ductwork and securing external condenser units.
This guide explains what cantilever arms are used for, the different types available, and how to select the correct bracket for safe, compliant and efficient installations.
What Is a Cantilever Arm?
A cantilever arm is a rigid horizontal support bracket that projects from a wall, column or structural surface. Manufacturers typically produce these brackets from hot-dip galvanised (HDG) or stainless steel strut channel, which provides excellent corrosion resistance and reliable load performance. As a result, cantilever arms perform exceptionally well in both indoor and outdoor installations.
Key features include:
- A welded or bolted back plate for securing to walls or steelwork
- Pre-drilled slots or holes for attaching cable tray, pipe clamps or mechanical equipment
- Full compatibility with M8, M10 and M12 fixings
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Where Are Cantilever Arms Used?
1. Supporting Cable Tray, Ladder Rack & Wire Basket
Cantilever arms provide a strong and stable support for cable tray systems. Their slot patterns align with standard containment fixings, which makes installation significantly quicker. Additionally, they maintain dependable lateral support in environments where ceiling suspension is not possible.
Installers use cantilever arms for:
- Electrical containment routes along walls and plant rooms
- Heavy cable ladder runs in industrial facilities
- Data, IT and lighting containment installations
Why installers prefer them: quick installation, high strength, and excellent compatibility with channel nuts and bolts.
2. Pipework Support for HVAC & Mechanical Services
Cantilever arms, when used with pipe clamps and threaded rod, deliver a reliable support solution for mechanical pipework. Installers choose this method when floor or ceiling mounting is impractical or when clean, accessible wall fixing is preferred.
Typical applications include:
- Refrigerant line support for AC units
- Heating and chilled-water distribution
- Plantroom and riser pipe routes
3. Ductwork and Ventilation Support
Ventilation ducting often requires precise alignment and consistent support spacing. Cantilever arms provide a clean and adjustable method for securing extract and supply duct runs. Moreover, HDG finishes offer excellent protection in high-humidity environments such as plantrooms or external locations.
- Wall-mounted ventilation systems
- Service corridors with limited overhead support
- Large mechanical ducting installations
4. Outdoor and Rooftop Installations
Hot-dip galvanised cantilever arms are highly effective outdoors due to their corrosion resistance. Installers use them for external containment, pipework and lightweight mechanical equipment. Furthermore, when additional rigidity is required, Back-to-Back Cantilever Arms provide a stronger dual-channel design.
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5. Supporting Air Conditioning Condenser Units
One of the most common practical uses of cantilever style supports is mounting air conditioning condenser units. Direct Channel supplies a complete range of Air Condenser Wall Bracket Kits designed for domestic and commercial HVAC installations. These brackets withstand vibration, external weather exposure and the weight of modern AC systems, ensuring long-term performance.
Available sizes:
Heavy-duty back-to-back options:
Easy Fit Condenser Bracket with Crossbar Kit is also available for faster installation and easier alignment.
Types of Cantilever Arms
Light-Duty Cantilever Arms
- Suitable for lightweight cable trays and domestic containment
- Used widely in commercial electrical and IT installations
Medium-Duty Cantilever Arms
- The most common choice for HVAC, pipework and cable tray routes
- Offers balanced strength and flexibility
Heavy-Duty Cantilever Arms
- Manufactured from reinforced or welded channel
- Designed for plant equipment, large ducting or heavy pipework
How to Choose the Right Cantilever Arm
To ensure safe and compliant installation, installers should consider the following:
- Load capacity: Always review the published safe working loads.
- Material finish: Use HDG outdoors, Stainless Steel in corrosive locations, and BZP indoors.
- Length: Choose an arm long enough to support the equipment footprint.
- Fixing substrate: Ensure anchors and fixings are suitable for concrete, block, steel or brickwork.
- Application demands: Consider back-to-back arms for additional rigidity.
Final Thoughts
Cantilever arms remain a fundamental support solution in M&E and HVAC installation work. They provide reliable support for cable trays, ductwork, pipework, and external plant equipment. By selecting the correct length, finish and duty rating, installers can create long-lasting, safe and professional support systems on every project.
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