Terminology for Cable Tray Components

The main components of a cable tray system are tray sections, fittings, supports, and accessories, each serving a specific function in routing, supporting, and protecting cables.

Tray Sections

Tray sections form the primary pathways for cables and come in several types:

• Ladder Tray: Features two side rails connected by rungs, providing excellent ventilation and support for heavy power cables. Key parts include side rails and rungs .
• Perforated Tray: Has a continuous bottom with holes, offering better cable support while allowing airflow and drainage. Key parts are tray base with perforations and side walls .
• Solid Bottom Tray: Fully enclosed base for maximum protection against dust, debris, and moisture, often used for sensitive or data cables. Key parts include solid base and side walls .
• Wire Mesh Tray: Made of welded steel wires forming a grid, providing flexibility and easy modification on-site .

Fittings

Fittings allow the cable tray system to change direction, branch, or adjust elevation:

• Elbows: Horizontal or vertical bends to change direction on the same plane or elevation .
• Tees and Crosses: Create branches to route cables to different areas .
• Reducers: Connect trays of different widths, typically from a main run to a branch run .
• Risers/Drop-Outs: Allow cables to exit vertically to connect to equipment below .

Supports

Supports carry the load of the tray and cables, ensuring mechanical stability:

• Trapeze Hangers: Suspend trays from ceilings using rods or brackets .
• Center-Span Supports: Provide intermediate support along the tray length .
• Wall Brackets: Anchor trays to walls or other vertical structures .

Accessories

Accessories enhance protection, organization, and safety:

• Covers: Protect cables from dust, debris, moisture, and unauthorized access; can also provide EMI shielding .
• Splice Plates: Connect straight sections securely .
• Hold-Down Clamps: Secure covers to the tray base .
• Cable Separators and Grounding Kits: Maintain cable separation and electrical continuity .

Materials

Cable tray components are typically made from:

• Steel: High strength and cost-effective, often galvanized for corrosion protection .
• Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant .
• Fiberglass/FRP: Non-conductive and highly resistant to corrosion, suitable for harsh environments .

Summary

A cable tray system functions as a complete assembly where tray sections, fittings, supports, and accessories work together to route, protect, and organize cables efficiently. Correct selection and combination of these components are essential for safety, performance, and compliance with standards .