Proper installation of cable trays is crucial to ensure the system’s reliability, safety, and longevity. Here are some key cable tray installation tips to follow:
1. Plan the Layout Carefully
- Tip: Before installation, thoroughly plan the layout of the cable tray system. Consider factors like the cable routing, types of cables, load requirements, and access points.
- Recommendation:
- Map out the route using blueprints or CAD software.
- Identify obstacles such as walls, machinery, or piping that may require special tray configurations.
- Consider future expansion to avoid reinstallation.
2. Choose the Right Tray Type
- Tip: Select the appropriate type of cable tray for the specific environment and load requirements (ladder, perforated, solid, wire mesh, etc.).
- Recommendation:
- Use perforated trays for moderate ventilation needs.
- Solid-bottom trays are best for areas needing maximum cable protection (e.g., data centers).
- Ladder-type trays are ideal for supporting heavy power cables and providing airflow.
3. Ensure Proper Support Spacing
- Tip: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for support spacing to prevent sagging and maintain structural integrity.
- Recommendation:
- Common spacing is typically every 1.5 to 3 meters (5 to 10 feet), but this varies depending on tray type, size, and load.
- Install additional supports around bends, T-junctions, and elevation changes.
4. Maintain Clearance and Accessibility
- Tip: Ensure there is sufficient clearance around the cable trays for easy access during installation and maintenance.
- Recommendation:
- Maintain a minimum clearance of 300mm (12 inches) above the tray for cable access.
- Allow room for future cable additions and easy maintenance.
- Avoid placing trays too close to other systems (pipes, ductwork) that could block access or cause interference.
5. Proper Grounding
- Tip: Ensure the cable tray system is properly grounded to prevent electrical faults and ensure safety.
- Recommendation:
- Follow electrical codes and standards for grounding practices.
- Use grounding kits or bonding jumpers at each connection point.
- Connect trays to the building’s grounding system for comprehensive protection.
6. Avoid Overloading the Tray
- Tip: Do not exceed the load-bearing capacity of the cable tray system, which includes both the weight of the cables and the tray itself.
- Recommendation:
- Consider both static and dynamic loads when calculating the total weight.
- Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the maximum allowable load.
- Distribute cable weight evenly across the tray to avoid stress points.
7. Manage Cable Separation
- Tip: Separate cables based on voltage levels, signal types, and usage to avoid interference and ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Recommendation:
- Use dividers or separate trays for power, control, and data cables.
- Maintain at least 50mm (2 inches) of separation between power and communication cables.
- Use shielded cables or tray sections if necessary to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI).
8. Secure Cables Properly
- Tip: Secure cables within the tray using the appropriate fasteners or ties to prevent movement, especially in vertical runs.
- Recommendation:
- Use UV-resistant cable ties in outdoor or exposed environments.
- Fasten cables at regular intervals, typically every 300-600mm (12-24 inches).
- Avoid over-tightening ties, which can damage the cables or interfere with thermal expansion.
9. Account for Expansion and Contraction
- Tip: Allow room for the thermal expansion and contraction of metal trays in environments with varying temperatures.
- Recommendation:
- Install expansion joints or sliding supports where necessary, especially in long tray runs (typically every 30 meters or 100 feet).
- Follow the manufacturer’s guidance on expansion joint placement based on tray material (aluminum, steel, etc.).
10. Adhere to Electrical Codes and Standards
- Tip: Ensure that the installation complies with local and national electrical codes
- Recommendation:
- Follow tray fill capacity guidelines (typically, a tray should not exceed 50% cable fill).
- Ensure that firestop systems are in place where trays pass through fire-rated walls or floors.
- Check compliance with grounding, bonding, and load requirements.
11. Use Proper Fastening and Support Materials
- Tip: Use appropriate materials for fastening and supporting the cable trays to ensure long-term durability and safety.
- Recommendation:
- Use corrosion-resistant materials (e.g., stainless steel or hot-dip galvanized) in harsh or outdoor environments.
- Choose appropriate anchors, bolts, and screws rated for the load and environment.
12. Allow for Future Expansion
- Tip: Install trays with some extra capacity to allow for future cable additions without having to modify the system.
- Recommendation:
- Leave extra space in trays for future cables (typically a 25–30% buffer).
- Ensure that supports and fasteners can handle additional load in the future.
13. Install Fire Barriers and Seals
- Tip: Install fire barriers and fire-resistant seals when trays pass through walls or floors, especially in fire-rated zones.
- Recommendation:
- Use approved firestopping materials to seal cable penetrations.
- Ensure firestops are compliant with local fire safety regulations.
14. Label and Document the Installation
- Tip: Label the trays and document the installation for easy identification and future maintenance.
- Recommendation:
- Use proper labeling and identification methods for cables within the trays.
- Keep detailed records of tray routes, cable types, and connection points for future troubleshooting and expansion.
15. Inspect and Test Post-Installation
- Tip: Perform a thorough inspection and testing of the cable tray system after installation to ensure everything is properly aligned and secure.
- Recommendation:
- Check that all trays are level, secure, and free of sharp edges or burrs.
- Test grounding continuity and ensure all connections are properly bonded.
- Inspect for proper cable separation, fastening, and load distribution.
By following these tips, you can ensure a safe, reliable, and long-lasting cable tray installation, whether in industrial, commercial, or residential settings.
Lokhandwala Engineering offers a variety of cable trays designed for different industrial needs. They specialize in the production of several types of trays, including:
- Ladder-Type Cable Trays: These are suitable for supporting large quantities of heavy-duty cables. They provide maximum airflow to prevent heat buildup.
- Perforated Cable Trays: Used for both power and signal cables, these have holes to allow ventilation and water drainage.
- Solid-Bottom Cable Trays: Ideal for situations where protection from external elements is needed, providing complete shielding to cables.
- Channel-Type Cable Trays: Suitable for smaller installations, these offer support for individual or small bundles of cables.
We manufacture and supply MS, GI & SS cable trays in various sizes and types and provide all necessary accessories such as brackets, clamps, bends, tees, etc for secure cable management. These trays can be powder-coated or hot dip galvanized for durability and corrosion resistance, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
To inquire or place an order, you can contact Lokhandwala Engineering via:
Mr. Tahir Lokhandwala
CEO
Lokhandwala Engineering
B.E Mechanical(NEDUET/PAK)
MSc Engineering Management (BUL/UK)
Email: engg2@lokhandwalapk.com
Phone: +92-320-8200689