Proper planning for installing cable tray includes calculations based on loading, support systems, cable/wire fill and spacing, conductor types, securing of the cables and wire, and proper grounding and bonding are all important aspects of cable tray installation.
Supports for cable tray installations should provide strength and working load capabilities sufficient to meet the load requirement of the cable tray wiring system. Consideration should be given to loads associated with future cable additions or any other additional loads applied to the cable tray installation and or the tray support system. Non-metallic supports and hardware may require special load bearing considerations because of material composition and application temperature.
Once the cable is installed in an open cable tray installation, take care to protect the exposed cables from falling objects or debris that could cause damage to the cable. In areas where the cable tray installation is to be covered, covers should be installed as soon as possible.
Although cable tray installation is virtually maintenance free under normal conditions, inspection of cable tray installations is recommended as part of a facility’s routine maintenance schedule for electrical equipment. Cable trays should be inspected and serviced by qualified personnel.
All Cable Tray Installations should be labeled per below.
WARNING!—Do not use cable trays as a walkway, ladder, or support for people; cable trays are a mechanical support system for cables and raceways. Using cable trays as walkways can cause personal injury and can damage cable trays and installed cables.