Techniques for drilling holes in cable tray bends

Drill holes for cable tray bends using a splice plate or template to ensure proper alignment and secure connections.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Mark the Bend and Cut Sections Before drilling, mark the bend angle (commonly 45° or 90°) on the tray and cut any necessary sections to allow smooth bending. For metal trays, triangular or rectangular cuts on the side walls help form the curve without damaging the tray structure . 2. Use a Template or Splice Plate The most accurate method is to use a splice plate as a template. Clamp the splice plate to the end of the field-cut tray section. Drill through the holes in the splice plate to transfer the correct hole positions to the tray . Drill jigs or factory-punched side rails can also serve as guides for consistent hole placement. 3. Select the Correct Drill Size Match the drill bit size to the hardware (nuts, bolts, or rivets) that will secure the bend to the straight tray sections. Ensure the holes align with the existing tray holes for proper assembly . 4. Drill the Holes Secure the tray to prevent movement. Drill through the marked points carefully, maintaining perpendicular alignment to avoid misaligned connections. For wire mesh trays, bolt cutters or hand tools may be used to create bends and holes on-site . 5. Remove Burrs and Protect Surfaces After drilling, remove any burrs using a file or grinder to prevent cable damage. Apply anti-rust paint or zinc spray to exposed metal edges if the tray is not pre-galvanized . 6. Assemble the Bend Attach the bent section to the straight tray using nuts, bolts, or rivets. Ensure the bend maintains the minimum permissible radius for the largest cable to prevent stress or deformation . Check alignment and secure all supports before running cables.

Tips for Best Results

• Always measure and mark carefully before drilling.
• Use clamps to hold templates or splice plates firmly.
• Drill slowly to avoid metal deformation or misalignment.
• Protect cut and drilled surfaces to prevent corrosion.
• Ensure bends allow smooth cable routing and maintain cable spacing. By following these steps, you can accurately drill holes for cable tray bends, ensuring a secure, aligned, and durable installation.