The standard thickness of tray-type straight-through cable trays typically ranges from 1.2 mm to 3.0 mm depending on material, duty class, and application.

Material and Duty Class Considerations

The thickness of a cable tray is influenced by the material (steel, stainless steel, aluminum) and the duty class (light, medium, heavy) . For example:

• Light-duty trays: 1.2–1.5 mm
• Medium-duty trays: 1.5–2.0 mm
• Heavy-duty trays: 2.0–3.0 mm Steel trays are commonly used for industrial applications due to their strength, while aluminum trays are lighter and corrosion-resistant, often requiring slightly thicker walls to maintain structural integrity . Stainless steel trays, especially AISI 316L, are used in corrosive environments and may have thicknesses similar to heavy-duty steel trays .

Standard Compliance

Tray-type straight-through cable trays are designed according to IEC 61537, which specifies mechanical strength, load capacity, and material requirements . The standard ensures that trays can safely support cables and withstand environmental factors. Manufacturers may provide specific thicknesses for each tray width and span length to comply with these standards.

Practical Guidelines

• Perforated or trough trays: Thickness is selected to balance support and ventilation; typical thickness is 1.5–2.0 mm for medium-duty applications .
• Ladder trays: Side rail thickness is critical for load-bearing; standard thickness ranges from 2.0–3.0 mm for heavy-duty installations .
• Channel trays: Used for small cable runs; thickness is usually 1.2–1.5 mm . When designing or selecting a tray, consider span length, cable weight, environmental conditions, and future expansion. Always verify the manufacturer's specifications and ensure compliance with IEC or local standards. In summary, tray-type straight-through cable trays generally have a standard thickness between 1.2 mm and 3.0 mm, with the exact value determined by material, duty class, and installation requirements .