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Cable trays carry wires, cables and conduit safely through a building. They can be made of steel, aluminum or FRP and come in different designs. They protect cables, keep them organized and make maintenance easier while reducing the risk of electric shock.
Cable trays are a type of building material used to carry wires, cables and conduit safely through a building. Instead of allowing cables to pass through walls and ceiling space unprotected, cable trays allow installers to route these cables in a controlled manner. These trays can carry electrical, telecommunication or security cables, along with any other types of electrical cables required within the building. Many local and national building codes require the use of cable trays in a variety of applications, although specific requirements may vary.
Depending on the application, cable trays can be made of steel, aluminum or glass fiber reinforced plastic (FRP). The decision on which material to use depends largely on local building code requirements, although budget can also be a factor in this decision. The total volume or electrical load that each tray can carry is determined by both the manufacturer and local inspectors.
Installers attach these trays to the wall and ceiling framing using trapeze hooks or J-hooks. Some center-hanging mounts are also available to allow installers to fill the trays from both sides after they’ve been hung. In raised floor applications, a cable tray system can also be installed under the floor to transport cables safely.
Buyers can choose from a number of different cable tray designs. Ladder trays are one of the most common and can be used over a relatively long span without intermediate supports. They provide a high level of ventilation for wires and cables from all sides and also allow easy access from both sides of the tray.
Solid, or “vacuum” cable trays are the best variety to protect the cables and wires inside, but offer little or no ventilation. They are most commonly found over relatively short spans due to their added weight. At the other end of the spectrum, single-track cable tray leaves wires and cables almost completely exposed. A single support rail runs along the center of the tray, and curved “fingers” run perpendicular to the rail to support the weight of the cables. Single-track cable trays are the most flexible and cost-effective and are typically used for low-voltage cabling.
The main function of the cable tray is to protect the wires and cables inside. These trays also keep cables organized and make it easier for maintenance personnel to locate and maintain cabling and related components. The tray makes it simple to trace a wire back to its source to make repairs and also allows for more effective fire sealing between walls. By keeping cables protected, a cable tray also reduces the risk of electric shock for maintenance personnel and installers.
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