National Standard Thickness of Cable Trays 2017 Edition

The 2017 national standard for cable tray thickness specifies minimum material thicknesses for steel, aluminum, fiberglass, and stainless steel trays according to NEMA VE 1-2017 and T/CECS 31-2017. Overview of StandardsNEMA VE 1-2017 is the primary standard for metal cable tray systems in the United States, harmonized with CSA C22. 2 No.

126. 1 for Canada. It covers construction, materials, dimensions, load capacity, and testing for various tray types, including ladder, ventilated, solid bottom, single-rail, wire mesh, and trough trays, along with associated fittings.

The standard provides load/span class designations and ensures compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC). T/CECS 31-2017 is the Chinese bridge national standard that also defines cable tray thickness requirements, including tray plates, cover plates, connecting plates, and protective layers such as zinc coatings or other finishes. This standard specifies strength, stability, and load-bearing calculations, as well as inspection and testing procedures.

Minimum Thickness Specifications

According to the 2017 standards: Steel cable trays: Minimum thickness 1. 2 mm for trays with widths between 150 mm and 300 mm. Aluminum alloy trays: Minimum thickness 1.

5 mm for the same width range. Fiberglass (nonmetallic) trays: Minimum thickness 3. 5 mm.

Stainless steel trays: Thickness varies depending on load class and protective coating, generally following similar structural requirements as steel trays. These thicknesses ensure mechanical strength, stability, and electrical safety, and are applicable to ladder, ventilated, solid bottom, and channel-type trays.

Additional Considerations

Protective coatings, such as zinc layers or paint, are included in the standard to prevent corrosion and extend service life. The standards also define tray span, load capacity, and installation guidelines, ensuring safe support for power and control cables. Compliance with NEC Article 392 is required for installation in the U.

S., while T/CECS 31-2017 provides harmonized guidance for bridge and industrial applications in China. In summary, the 2017 national standards provide clear minimum thickness requirements for different materials, ensuring structural integrity and safety for cable tray installations in industrial and commercial applications.