Methods for fabricating cable tray supports and hangers

Cable tray supports and hangers are fabricated from steel, stainless steel, or aluminum, designed to securely mount cable trays while complying with industry standards and environmental requirements.

Materials and Corrosion Protection

Cable tray supports and hangers are typically made from steel, stainless steel, or aluminum, with various galvanization or coating options to enhance corrosion resistance in industrial or outdoor environments. Fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP/GRP) composites are also used in specialized applications, particularly offshore or highly corrosive environments. The choice of material depends on load requirements, environmental conditions, and project specifications.

Design Considerations

Supports and hangers must be designed to: Withstand mechanical loads, including the weight of cables and dynamic forces such as short-circuit events. Maintain proper spacing to prevent cable sagging and ensure minimum bend radius for sensitive cables. Allow for modular installation, enabling easy addition or removal of cable trays and accessories.

Provide stability and alignment, using brackets, clamps, or custom-fabricated hangers to secure trays to ceilings, walls, or floors.

Standards and Compliance

Fabrication and installation should comply with recognized standards: DIN EN 61537 and BS EN 61537 for cable tray and ladder systems.

B

S 6946 for channel support systems. These standards ensure that supports are mechanically robust, safe, and compatible with the cable tray system.

Custom Fabrication

Manufacturers like ICS Industries offer custom-fabricated supports tailored to project requirements, including unique hanger designs, adjustable brackets, and specialized mounting solutions. Custom fabrication allows for: Precise alignment with structural elements. Accommodation of unusual cable loads or routing paths.

Integration with other electrical or instrumentation equipment.

Installation Best Practices

Use competent personnel familiar with electrical installation and safety practices. Ensure secure attachment to structural elements using appropriate anchors or fasteners. Avoid using cable trays as walkways or ladders to prevent damage and personal injury.

Maintain ventilation and access for cable management, especially in enclosed or solid-bottom trays. Consider slot patterns and accessory compatibility for efficient positioning of cables and tubing clamps.

Accessories and Fittings

Cable tray systems are complemented by a wide range of brackets, clamps, and fittings, enabling compact and stable installation in various configurations. These accessories facilitate: Horizontal and vertical transitions. Support for instrumentation and control cables.

Integration with electrical devices or equipment. By following these guidelines, cable tray fixing supports and hangers can be fabricated and installed to provide safe, durable, and efficient cable management in industrial and commercial installations.