Specifications and Requirements for Cable Tray Hangers and Supports

Cable tray supports and hangers must comply with IEC 61537 and BS 6946 standards, ensuring proper load capacity, spacing, material selection, and fire resistance for safe cable management.

Key Standards and Guidelines

Cable tray systems and their supports are primarily governed by IEC 61537, which specifies construction, testing, and performance requirements for metallic cable trays, and BS 6946, which addresses safe working loads and installation practices in the UK . These standards ensure that trays can safely support the weight of cables, environmental loads, and any imposed mechanical stresses.

Material and Corrosion Protection

Supports and hangers are typically made from steel, stainless steel, or aluminum, with galvanization or other coatings applied to resist corrosion, especially in industrial or outdoor environments . Non-metallic banding is recommended for packaging to prevent rust stains and contamination of stainless steel products .

Load and Mechanical Requirements

Cable tray supports must withstand:

• The weight of the cables and tray itself
• Environmental loads such as wind, ice, or snow
• Short-circuit forces generated by electrical faults Load testing is required to validate mechanical strength, and the system should be installed so that cables are not exposed to undue mechanical strain or stress at terminations .

Support Spacing

Support intervals depend on the tray type, cable weight, and installation method:

• Continuous support is ideal, but where not possible, trays must be supported at intervals that prevent sagging or damage .
• Typical spacing guidelines are provided in the IET Selection and Erection Guidance Notes, which consider cable diameter and type .

Fire Resistance and Safety

All supports must be fire-resistant to prevent premature failure during a fire, ensuring the integrity of the cable system . Wiring systems should be installed to avoid obstructing access or egress routes, which is critical for evacuation and firefighting.

Installation Practices

• Supports should be balanced and properly aligned to distribute loads evenly.
• Bundled tray sections longer than 5 meters require three timber bearers for handling, while shorter sections require at least two .
• Only competent personnel familiar with electrical installation practices should perform installation .

Additional Considerations

• Cable trays should not be used as walkways or for supporting personnel.
• Proper ventilation and fill ratios must be maintained to prevent overheating of cables .
• Compliance with CE marking and national standards ensures legal and safety conformity . By following these standards and guidelines, cable tray supports and hangers provide safe, durable, and compliant cable management in industrial, commercial, and utility installations.