Angled tee insertion in cable trays involves cutting the tray at the desired angle, fitting the tee section, and reinforcing with gussets for structural stability.

Preparing the Tee Section

To create an angled tee, first measure and mark the tray where the branch will connect. For metal ladder or ventilated trays, cut the bottom and side rails at the required angle using appropriate tools, ensuring clean edges to maintain structural integrity and prevent cable damage during installation (Atkore) . For mesh or basket trays, cut the mesh sections according to the bend requirements, typically removing one or more side sections for a hard or soft 90° bend, which can be adapted for angled tees (Atkore) .

Installing the Tee

1. Align the branch tray with the main run at the desired angle.
2. Insert the tee section into the main tray, ensuring the cut edges fit snugly.
3. Secure the connection using bolts, clamps, or manufacturer-recommended fasteners to maintain mechanical stability (ExpertCE) .

Reinforcing with Gussets

For angled tees, gussets are often added to strengthen the joint and prevent sagging or deformation under cable load. A gusset is a triangular or custom-shaped metal piece attached at the junction of the main and branch trays. This reinforcement ensures the tee can support the weight of cables and maintain alignment over time (YouTube tutorial) .

Support and Compliance

• Ensure adequate support spacing for both the main and branch trays, typically following manufacturer guidelines (Unitray) .
• Verify that the installation complies with NEC Article 392 and local electrical codes, including proper grounding and bonding (ExpertCE) .
• For angled tees in environments with heavy or large-diameter cables, consider ladder trays for better ventilation and support, or ventilated troughs for smaller control cables (ExpertCE) .

Tips for On-Site Adjustments

• Minor angle adjustments can be made by cutting and bending tray sections on-site.
• Always check for clearance with other services and obstacles before finalizing the tee installation.
• Use CAD or BIM tools to pre-plan complex tee layouts for precise angles and gusset placement (Eaton) . By following these steps, an angled tee can be installed efficiently, maintaining both structural integrity and safe cable management.