Cable trays and troughs are connected using splice plates, fasteners, and fittings to ensure structural integrity, proper alignment, and secure cable support.

Key Components for Connection

Splice Plates: These are metal plates used to join two straight sections of cable tray or trough. They are typically bolted to the side rails of each tray section to maintain alignment and structural strength . Fasteners: Bolts, nuts, and washers secure the splice plates to the tray sections. Stainless steel or corrosion-resistant fasteners are recommended for durability, especially in industrial or outdoor environments . Fittings: For directional changes or branching, horizontal bends, vertical risers, tees, and crosses are used. These fittings are connected to straight sections using the same splice plate and fastener method . Covers and Hold-Down Clamps: Optional covers protect cables from dust, moisture, and debris. Hold-down clamps secure the cover to the tray, ensuring cables remain in place .

Installation Best Practices

1. Alignment: Ensure tray sections are properly aligned before tightening fasteners to prevent gaps or misalignment that could stress cables .
2. Support Spacing: Maintain recommended support intervals (e.g., trapeze hangers, wall brackets) to prevent sagging and overloading .
3. Grounding: Metal trays should be grounded according to electrical codes to prevent electrical hazards .
4. Load Considerations: Verify that the connected sections can support the intended cable load, considering material, gauge, and width .
5. Expansion and Flexibility: Modular designs allow for easy expansion or reconfiguration of the cable run without compromising connection integrity .

Special Considerations for Trough-Type Trays

Trough-type cable trays, with solid or ventilated bottoms, provide extra protection for sensitive cables. Connections should ensure that the bottom remains continuous to prevent cable damage and maintain proper support . Ventilated bottoms allow heat dissipation, so alignment and secure fastening are critical to avoid gaps that could reduce airflow . By following these guidelines, cable tray and trough connections will be secure, compliant, and capable of supporting the intended cable load safely.