Ellis Patents has partnered with two other UK engineering specialists: Anchor Systems (International) Ltd, and Arbourtech Services Ltd, to successfully deliver a modern, efficient cable management solution for a critical section of the London Underground network.
The project, part of Transport for London’s (TfL) Piccadilly Line Upgrade, focused on replacing the aging cable infrastructure at Cockfosters Depot with a fast-to-install, low-disruption system that meets stringent rail industry safety and durability standards. The result was a technically advanced, concrete-free Cable Route Management System (CRMS) – a direct outcome of close collaboration between three UK innovators.
Engineering the Solution
At the core of the CRMS is Ellis Patents’ Pegasus® Composite Cable Hanger System – a modular, lightweight solution made from high-strength glass-reinforced nylon. Developed and manufactured at the company’s headquarters in North Yorkshire, Pegasus® is built to withstand aggressive environments while allowing flexibility in cable configuration. It reflects Ellis’ long-standing reputation for engineering excellence and innovation in cable cleat and hanger design for infrastructure and industrial applications.
To deliver a complete system suitable for ground-mounted cable runs, Ellis partnered with two other UK experts:
- Anchor Systems (International) Ltd, based in West Sussex, supplied its patented domed Anchor Screws. These ground anchors eliminate the need for concrete, enabling posts to be installed in just 4 to 8 minutes depending on conditions. The system provides immediate load-bearing capability and dramatically reduces installation time and environmental disruption. Anchor Systems has extensive experience in engineered anchoring solutions across civil engineering, utilities, and rail sectors.
- Arbourtech Services Ltd, a Midlands-based specialist installer, was responsible for the on-site delivery and integration of the system, including the supply and installation of GRP support posts designed to interface with both the Anchor Screws and the Pegasus® hangers. Arbourtech brought huge practical experience in delivering cable route infrastructure projects and played a vital role in ensuring the seamless, rapid deployment of the full system.
Precision Installation, Minimal Disruption
The system was successfully installed over a 500-metre stretch at Cockfosters Depot. By eliminating concrete and leveraging pre-manufactured components, the team achieved rapid deployment while ensuring the structural and functional performance demanded by the rail environment.
The CRMS proved to be not only faster and cleaner to install but also more adaptable to ground conditions and long-term asset resilience. The modular hanger design supports various cable sizes and types, while the combined durability of glass-reinforced nylon, and GRP materials ensures longevity with low maintenance.
A Model for Future Rail and Infrastructure Projects
This collaboration showcases the strength of UK engineering when innovation, practical expertise, and specialist technologies are combined. Each company brought a distinct capability to the project – advanced polymer engineering, precision anchoring, and expert on-site delivery – to create a custom-built, future-proofed solution for one of the world’s most demanding urban rail systems.
With proven results and installation efficiencies, the Cockfosters Depot project sets a new precedent for infrastructure upgrades in the transport and utility sectors.