Installation of U-shaped cable tray supports

U-shaped cable trays are installed by securely supporting the tray with hangers or brackets, ensuring proper alignment, load distribution, and safe cable placement.

Preparation and Handling

Before installation, offload trays carefully using forklifts or overhead cranes, ensuring slings or forks do not crush the siderails. Trays should be stored on adequate dunnage to prevent contact with moisture or uneven surfaces, and bundles should be stacked by type and width for easy access . For long sections, support with timber bearers is recommended to prevent bending or damage .

Support and Mounting

U-shaped trays are typically supported using trapeze or swing supports, wall brackets, or center-hung supports. The vertical hangers are threaded through cross members, with hex nuts and square washers used to secure the tray. The cross member should allow for horizontal adjustment to align the tray properly . Maximum support spacing is generally 3.6 meters, with a load capacity per hanger of 318–340 kg .

Installation Steps

1. Mark the tray route on ceilings, walls, or floors, considering bends, T-pieces, and crossovers.
2. Install support hangers or brackets at the designated spacing, ensuring they are level and aligned.
3. Attach cross members to the hangers, using washers and hex nuts to secure them.
4. Place the U-shaped tray onto the supports, adjusting horizontally as needed.
5. Secure tray clips either inside or outside the tray, depending on interference with rungs or connectors.
6. Check alignment and level of the tray before tightening all fasteners.
7. Install covers or barriers if required for additional protection or aesthetics .

Cable Placement

Once the tray is installed, lay cables carefully, maintaining the minimum bend radius to prevent damage. For instrumentation or control cables, consider using solid or ventilated bottoms to protect against electromagnetic interference and heat buildup . Ensure cables are restrained and evenly distributed to avoid overloading any section of the tray.

Safety Considerations

• Only use trays and supports designed to work together as a system .
• Avoid using trays as walkways or for supporting personnel.
• Follow manufacturer specifications for voltage, current, and temperature limits .
• Ensure proper grounding and bonding where required. By following these steps, U-shaped cable trays can be installed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with standard electrical installation practices.