Portuguese trough-type cable trays are easy to install

Proper installation of Portuguese trough-type cable trays ensures structural integrity, cable protection, and compliance with industry standards.

Overview of Trough-Type Cable Trays

A trough-type cable tray is a rigid, continuous structure designed to support insulated electrical cables and raceways. It features a solid or ventilated bottom with side rails, providing superior protection against dust, moisture, and physical damage while maintaining minimal cable sag over horizontal runs ( ). These trays are ideal for industrial plants, commercial buildings, and areas where cable organization and accessibility are critical.

Pre-Installation Planning

1. Route Planning: Review engineering drawings and plan the tray path to avoid obstructions such as pipes, ducts, or structural elements ( ).
2. Component Verification: Ensure all tray sections, fittings (elbows, tees, reducers), and supports are available and compatible.
3. Load Assessment: Determine the total cable weight and select a tray with a load rating exceeding this value, considering future expansions ( ).

Support Structure

• Support Spacing: Install supports at intervals specified by the manufacturer's load capacity chart. Shorter spans allow heavier loads ( ).
• Support Types: Use trapeze hangers, wall brackets, or center-span supports anchored to structural members. Avoid cutting structural elements or installing trays in hoist ways or areas prone to physical damage ( ).
• Clearance: Maintain a minimum of 12 inches (300 mm) of free space above and to the side of the tray for accessibility and maintenance ( ).

Assembly and Mounting

1. Tray Connection: Secure tray sections using splice plates or connectors, ensuring smooth internal surfaces to prevent cable jacket abrasion ( ).
2. Fastening: Drill holes as required (e.g., 7/16” for solid bottoms) and use bolts with flat washers and spring nuts to secure the tray ( ).
3. Pivot Connectors: Install horizontal or vertical pivot connectors for bends up to 60°, allowing flexibility in routing ( ).
4. Dropouts and Brackets: Use dropouts for cable exits and shelf brackets for vertical support, drilling clearance holes as specified ( ).

Grounding and Bonding

Properly ground the entire tray system to protect against electrical faults, following NEC and IEC standards ( ). Ensure continuity across all tray sections and fittings.

Material Considerations

• Steel: High load capacity, suitable for heavy industrial applications.
• Aluminum: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, ideal for moderate loads.
• Stainless Steel or Fiberglass: Recommended for corrosive or harsh environments ( ).

Final Checks

• Verify alignment, level, and plumb of the tray system.
• Ensure all fasteners are tightened and covers are properly installed.
• Confirm that cable routing allows for easy maintenance and future expansion ( ). By following these steps, Portuguese trough-type cable trays can be installed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with industry standards, providing long-term protection and organization for electrical and data cables.