If someone were to assert that our modern way of life depends on electricity, that assertion would not prove incorrect. Because of this, we rely on all sorts of cables and wiring to move power and information at blinding speeds across miles of distance.
Even in the private sector, the number of cables in a home can quickly overwhelm the people living there. This holds doubly true for businesses, who often need thicker, longer cables to keep themselves supported and must keep the safety of their workers in mind. Fortunately, cable trays can help.
What is a cable tray? Let’s discuss that in further detail below.
What Is a Cable Tray?
So, first things first, what is a cable tray? Cable trays are often smaller pieces of larger cable tray systems. These systems provide a strong physical infrastructure to support cables used for anything from power to information. They both support and protect wiring, keeping cables contained within them.
These cable trays often have open accessibility, making it easier for any potential needed repairs to take place. This is paramount in ensuring worker safety during any maintenance that takes place.
Cable Tray Purposes and Uses
Aside from supporting and protecting them, cable trays also serve to organize cables. This helps to keep the cables separated by purpose and hold them well out of harm’s way. This harm can come either to the cables themselves due to constant foot traffic or an errant cut, or it can come to a business’s workers. For further proof, check out this article for five reasons any cable installation you have should have cable trays.
Types of Cable Trays
Now that you understand what purpose cable trays serve, let’s discuss in brief the types of cable trays that you can find to keep your cables organized. These cable tray types may include:
Ladder Cable Trays
Ladder cable trays are by far the most common variety you can find. They’re used in a variety of industries, from telecommunications to live music and theater performances. These cable trays look like ladders and can support a wide variety of heavy cables, while also allowing the cables to “breathe” and avoid potential overheating.
Ventilated Cable Trays
Ventilated cable trays are light-duty trays designed for ease of access and ventilation. They are made from thin pieces of sheet metal with holes punched in them to allow for maximum breathability and accessibility.
Wire Mesh Cable Trays
Wire mesh cable trays are by far the lightest of the three, mainly used for internet cables or low voltage wires. These cable trays are formed from a crisscrossing network of stainless steel wires.
Let’s Review What We Know
What is a cable tray, and what use does it serve? In essence, a cable tray serves to protect, support, and ventilate a network of wires and cables, keeping it and others out of harm’s way. You can find cable trays for any industry application, as long as you know the needs of your cabling.
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