Spacing of cable tray corner supports

Corner supports for cable trays should be installed on each side of the bend, typically not exceeding 1. 5 meters apart, to ensure stability and prevent cable stress.

Corner Support Guidelines

At corners or bends in a cable tray system, it is essential to install one support on each side of the bend, arranged symmetrically. This ensures the tray remains stable and the cables inside are not subjected to undue mechanical stress or sagging. The distance between these corner supports should generally not exceed 1.

5 meters, although the exact spacing may vary depending on the tray type, load, and cable weight.

Horizontal and Vertical Support Spacing

Horizontal runs: Supports are typically spaced 1. 5 to 3 meters apart, with NEC guidelines recommending 4 to 6 feet (approximately 1. 2 to 1.

8 meters) for standard installations. Heavier or long-span trays may require closer spacing or additional supports. Vertical runs: Supports should be fixed to the building structure with a spacing preferably less than 2 meters, and cables should be secured at the top and at intervals along the vertical section.

At bends or transitions: Supports should be placed immediately before and after the bend, and the internal radius of the bend should not be less than the minimum bending radius of the cable.

Best Practices

Use fire-resistant supports for all cable types to prevent premature failure in case of fire. For long vertical runs exceeding 32 meters, incorporate strain relief sections by offsetting the cable by at least two cable diameters. Ensure that splice plates are positioned between supports to maintain structural integrity and minimize deflection.

Always consult the manufacturer's load capacity chart to determine the proper support spacing for the specific tray and cable load. By following these guidelines, corner supports will provide adequate stability, prevent cable damage, and comply with NEC and NEMA standards.