Mike Jackson, Sales Director with Unicrimp – part of the Scolmore Group – provides an in-depth look at the challenges of cable connections, along with the ways its extensive product offering can overcome nearly every challenge imaginable
In every electrical system, it’s easy to focus on the cables themselves. Cables are the lifeblood of modern infrastructure, carrying energy and data across industries, commercial buildings, and homes. Yet, their performance hinges not just on their design, but on how they are connected and safeguarded. Poor connections can lead to overheating, short circuits, or even catastrophic system failures.
The Hidden Challenge of Cable Connections
Modern electrical systems are under more pressure than ever. Higher load capacities, driven by electric vehicle chargers, renewable energy technologies, and smart building controls, are becoming commonplace. At the same time, the Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) and standards such as BS EN 60670-22 place strict requirements on how connections are made and protected.
The challenge for installers is twofold: to meet these standards consistently, while also keeping projects on time and on budget. Junction boxes are often the overlooked part of this equation - but in practice, they are one of the most critical points in any circuit. A well-designed junction box does more than conceal wiring - it ensures connection integrity, mechanical protection, and long-term reliability. As well as providing as mechanical safety - shielding sensitive cable joints from impact and stress – high quality boxes provide environmental protection against dust, moisture.
As the demand for safer, smarter, and faster installations grows and cabling systems become more complex, the way we house, route, and protect cables has never been more critical. Contractors need solutions that not only comply with regulations but also make their work more efficient. This is where Unicrimp’s range of Q-Nect junction boxes and connectors comes into its own – providing secure and efficient connections in residential, commercial, and industrial environments.
Unicrimp Q-Nect IP Weatherproof Junction Box
Available in black and anthracite grey, the Q-Nect junction box is designed to make installations quicker and more efficient. It can house four of the 3 Port Lever Connectors using the 360⁰ detachable cradle. The IP Box also utilises a curved lid which provides additional space for wires, the lid is locked using quarter turn fasteners, which allows for quick opening and closing.
Enhanced protection - the IP66 rating and self-sealing membranes offer superior protection for electrical components from dust, dirt, and water.
10 membrane entry points - the junction box features ten membrane entry points. Protection against moisture and dust is enhanced with the self-sealing membranes which provide a faster and more secure cable entry whilst at the same time maintaining the IP66 rating.
Up to eight M20 glands - installers have the option of using up to eight M20 cable glands with the junction box. The M20 threaded entries with membrane ensure that the IP rating is maintained without needing to use any tools or locknuts.
Multiple fixing options - the IP Box gives you the option to fix directly to a wall using four screws into the pre-moulded holes in the base or utilise the detachable wall clip which requires just two screws.
Semi-transparent lids - the option of the semi-transparent lid takes the IP Box to the next level, allowing installers to see the inside connections without compromising the integrity of the enclosure. The boxes with semi-transparent lids are available in a black or anthracite grey finish.
Aesthetics - the anthracite grey and finish is designed to match the Click Scolmore Aquip66 weatherproof socket and switch enclosures, which are also available with the same semi-transparent lids.
The slimline Q-Nect IP junction box
Measuring 85mm x 55mm x 52mm Unicrimp’s slimline Q-Nect IP junction box is designed for maximum efficiency to ease installation in places where space is limited. It comes furnished with 4 x 3 Way Lever Connectors with a curved lid which provides the installer with additional space for wiring. The lid is also locked using quarter turn fasteners making the job quicker and easier.
The junction box includes eight membrane entry points and offers installers the option of using up to six M20 cable glands. The M20 threaded entries with membrane ensure that the IP66 rating is maintained without needing to use any tools or locknuts. It also offers fixing directly to a wall using four screws into the pre-moulded holes in the base
2 & 3 Way IP Connection Boxes
There are three products within the IP connection boxes range - 4 Pole 2 Way 24A IP68 Inline Connection Box; 4 Pole 3 Way 24A IP68 (M16+M20) Connection Box and 3 Pole 2 Way 16A IP66 Connection Box.
Both IP68 rated boxes come pre-installed with IP68 rated nylon glands. The nylon glands provide a dust and watertight seal, as well as excellent strain relief and cable protection. To aid installation the hinged lid enables quick and easy access with suitable fixing points provided. This allows the connection box to be fixed wherever it is suited.
The IP68 Connection Box prevents exposure with a strong sealing performance. It can withstand dust, dirt and sand, and is also resistant to submersion up to a maximum depth of 1m for up to 60 minutes. The more compact IP66 Connection Box is also protected against direct high pressure jets.
5 Pole, 3 Way IP68 ‘T’ & Inline Connectors
High quality and robust materials produce a tough nylon body which helps ensure that the connectors can withstand the harshest of environments. Whatever the installation conditions, the cables will be fully secure.
The ‘T’ and Inline Connectors are supplied with 5 pole terminals. This provides the installer with a variety of wiring options, covering a large range of installations. The ‘T’ shape of the IP68 ‘T’ connector facilitates the install of an inline switch or additional powered output whilst also offering IP68 weatherproof protection, making it perfect for multiple installations.
The IP68 Inline Connector provides a quick and simple solution for outdoor fixtures. It can be used to extend or repair existing cables while maintaining its IP68 weatherproof protection.
2, 3 and 5 Way Lever Connectors
Suitable for solid, stranded and flexible cable types, these lever operated connectors use screwless spring clamp technology, which means there is no need for any tools. They feature an inspection window, which is located at the top of the lever connector and allows for quick and easy testing while the lever connector is installed.
They offer a strong and reliable connection, with a conductor range of 0.2-4mm. Because they are reusable, they are the perfect solution for temporary or mobile installations.
The housing on all Unicrimp Q-NECT lever connectors are transparent which means that installers can easily see if the wires inside are positioned correctly to ensure the best possible connection.
Adding Value for Contractors and End-Users
For contractors, Unicrimp’s Q-Nect range means quicker installs, reduced likelihood of call-backs, and peace of mind that each connection is properly protected. For end-users, it translates into long-term reliability and safety, with connections that won’t fail under pressure.
In the race to design smarter buildings and greener infrastructure, reliable cable connections will remain the foundation - and junction boxes will remain their unsung champions.