Otis Singleton
Cable trays are support structures used in the electrical wiring of buildings and other structures. They are used to secure electrical cables and wires for power distribution, control, and communication. Cable trays are an alternative to wire ways and electrical conduits, which completely enclose cables. Cable trays are adaptable, simple to install, and come in a variety of types to suit different projects and environments.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Cable trays are used as an alternative to wire ways and electrical conduits to support and protect power and signal cables. |
| Material | Carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminium alloy, fibreglass (FRP), fireproof, PVC, galvanised steel, aluminium, and more. |
| Style | Ladder type, trough type, perforated, wire mesh/basket, cable channels, large-span, combined, solid-bottom, and more. |
| Surface Treatment | Hot-dip galvanised (HDG), GI galvanised, pre-galvanised, epoxy powder-coated, and more. |
| Advantages | Cost-effective, easy maintenance, improved safety, durability, ventilation, lightweight, and more. |
| Disadvantages | Accumulation of dust and clutter, moisture build-up, not suitable for all cable types, and more. |
| Cable Types | Single conductor, Type MV, XHHW, VNTC, THHN, LSZH, and more. |
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What You'll Learn
Ladder cable trays
Cable trays are components of support systems for power and communications cables and wires. They are alternatives to wire ways and electrical conduits, which completely enclose cables. Cable trays are capable of supporting all types of wiring, including high-voltage power lines.
The rung spacing of ladder cable trays varies depending on the cable type. Single conductors over 4/0 and MC cables require 12" or 18" rung spacing, while smaller diameter cables need 6" or 9" rung spacing. The tray bottom also differs, with options for trough, solid, or ventilated type trays, each offering varying levels of protection and support for different cable types.
The type of metal and finish used in ladder cable trays is determined by the job site and its environment. Stainless steel trays are used in highly corrosive environments, while fiberglass trays are another option.
When selecting a ladder cable tray, it is important to consider the type of support required and the distance between supports, known as the "support span." Heavier-duty trays offer deeper loading depths and stronger, less deflective long-span support, reducing the number of costly supports needed and installation time.
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Perforated cable trays
Cable trays are components of support systems for power and communication cables and wires. They are alternatives to wire ways and electrical conduits, which completely enclose cables. Cable trays are capable of supporting all types of wiring, from high-voltage power lines to low-voltage telecommunication cables.
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Solid bottom cable trays
Cable trays are support structures used in the electrical wiring of buildings and other structures, designed to secure insulated electrical cables used for power distribution, control, and communication. They are open structures that allow for efficient heat dissipation and easy access for replacement and repairs.
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Wire mesh cable trays
Cable trays are an alternative to wire ways and electrical conduits, supporting and protecting power and signal cables. They are typically suspended from ceilings, affixed to walls, or used underfloors.
The wire mesh cable trays are available in various finishes, such as galvanized, stainless steel, or powder-coated for corrosion resistance. They are also versatile, with the ability to be sized to fit specific needs. For example, Kable Kontrol's steel wire mesh cable trays come in four different widths (4", 6", 8", 12") at a 2" depth and 9.84' (3m) length with a wire thickness of 0.197".
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Channel cable trays
Cable trays are components of support systems for power and communications cables and wires. They are alternatives to wire ways and electrical conduits, which completely enclose cables. Cable trays are capable of supporting all types of wiring. They are typically suspended from ceilings or affixed to walls, but some cable tray systems are suitable for underfloor use.
Ventilated channel cable trays have open sides and bottoms, which allow for the loading and inspection of cables. They are available in marine-grade aluminium, pre-galvanized, hot-dip galvanized, and stainless steel options.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several types of electrical cable trays, including:
- Ladder cable trays
- Perforated cable trays
- Solid bottom cable trays
- Wire mesh cable trays
- Channel cable trays
- Large-span cable trays
- Combined cable trays
Ladder cable trays are one of the most common types of cable trays, used for about 75% of cable tray installations. They offer excellent strength for heavy cable loads and good ventilation.
Perforated cable trays are used to manage, support and protect power cables, control cables, data cables and wires. They are made of galvanized steel or stainless steel and have holes in the bottom, rungs, vertical side rails or covers.
Solid bottom cable trays are used for installations where cable drooping may affect system performance, or where there is a concern for electromagnetic/radio-frequency interference protection. They are also used to minimise tripping hazards and electrical fires, contributing to a safer work environment.
Wire mesh cable trays, also known as basket cable trays, are made of stainless steel wires welded together to form a basket-like mesh. They are lightweight and easy to handle and install, and offer excellent ventilation for cables.
