The unique Flexo plug-and-socket power cable system, designed by Goodwin for BICC General Cables, enables contractors to install lighting and power systems in a fraction of the normal time. The system, designed for harsh environments, consists of a modular power cable with factory installed outlets. Plug-in connections eliminate the need for on-site junction boxes.

Flexo can survive fires up to 950°C and is sealed to IP67. It can be used on cables with diameters of 2.5-50 mm and up to 6 conductors. To reduce the overall size, the plugs are designed so that they can rotate to optimise the position of the lead cable. Flexo is used in the Channel Tunnel to provide power for the emergency lighting. Not surprisingly, it has had to pass stringent mechanical, electrical and environmental tests.

FLEXO is delivered on a drum containing a cable harness, which is simply unwound along the tunnel wall. Once the harness has been supported on a tray, fixing the light fittings becomes a simple plug and socket arrangement – minimising the amount of site time consumed by installation, testing and commissioning.

Goodwin produced the initial design concept and handled the engineering and production specification of all the components.