Bracket at the bend of the cable tray

Brackets at cable tray bends provide structural support, maintain proper cable spacing, and prevent overfilling at the inside radius of the bend. Purpose of Brackets at BendsWhen a cable tray changes direction, the cables on the inside of the bend travel a shorter distance than those on the outside, which can lead to crowding and potential overfill. Installing a bracket at the bend helps to: Support the tray and prevent sagging or deformation.

Maintain the minimum bend radius for cables, protecting them from damage. Ensure even distribution of cable bundles and prevent excessive stress on the inner rail ( ).

Types of Brackets and Attachment

Standard support brackets: Used for straight runs and bends, typically mounted to walls, ceilings, or strut systems ( ).

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X or riser brackets: Used in modular systems like EzyTray to fabricate bends, tees, or cross connections. These brackets are installed on both sides of the tray and fastened with bolts or clamps to secure the bend ( ). Wire basket hardware kits: For mesh trays, bolt-on splices and mounting brackets secure bends and intersections while maintaining structural integrity ( ).

Installation Considerations

Brackets should be installed in pairs on either side of the bend to evenly distribute load ( ). Ensure the inner radius of the bend is calculated for cable fill, not just the centerline, to avoid overfilling ( ). Use appropriate fasteners such as truss-head bolts, combination nuts, or clamps depending on tray type and material ( ).

Maintain proper spacing between brackets to support the tray according to the expected cable load and tray width ( ).

Material and Environmental Considerations

Brackets and trays should match the corrosion protection of the system, especially for outdoor or high-humidity environments ( ). Ensure compatibility with tray type: ladder, ventilated trough, wire mesh, or channel trays, as each has different fill characteristics and bend behavior ( ).

Summary

Installing brackets at cable tray bends is essential for mechanical support, cable protection, and compliance with fill and bend radius requirements. Proper selection, placement, and fastening of brackets prevent sagging, cable crowding, and potential damage, ensuring a safe and reliable cable management system.