Cable Tray Support Reinforcement Solution

Cable tray reinforcement supports are structural elements designed to securely hold and stabilize cable trays, ensuring proper load distribution and compliance with installation standards.

Purpose of Reinforcement Supports

Cable tray reinforcement supports are used to mechanically support cable trays and fittings, preventing sagging, excessive deflection, or structural failure under the weight of cables. They also help maintain proper alignment, accommodate changes in direction, and ensure safety in industrial, commercial, and outdoor installations (OBO CMS) .

Types of Supports

1. Wall and Support Brackets: Fixed to walls or vertical surfaces to hold cable trays horizontally.
2. Suspended Supports / Hangers: Used for ceiling-mounted trays, often adjustable in height.
3. Center Suspensions: Provide mid-span support for long tray runs to reduce deflection.
4. Overhead Hangers: U-profile or C-profile steel hangers, available in galvanized, stainless steel, or epoxy-coated finishes, suitable for heavy-duty applications (DirectIndustry) .
5. GRP Brackets: Glass-fiber reinforced polyester brackets for corrosion-resistant environments, available in various lengths and profiles (DirectIndustry) .

Materials and Coatings

Supports are typically made from steel, stainless steel, or GRP (glass-fiber reinforced polyester). Coatings such as hot-dip galvanization, epoxy, or powder coatings enhance corrosion resistance, especially in industrial or outdoor environments (OBO CMS) .

Design Considerations

• Support Spacing: Follow standards like NEMA VE-1 and VE-2, with recommended support locations at 1/4 span intervals to minimize stress and deflection at splice points (Eaton B-Line) .
• Load Capacity: Supports must accommodate the weight of cables and trays, including dynamic loads. Heavy-duty trays may require reinforced brackets or additional hangers.
• Fittings and Accessories: Supports should integrate with bends, T-pieces, crossovers, and expansion splice plates to maintain structural integrity (OBO CMS) .
• Environmental Factors: Consider exposure to moisture, chemicals, or temperature variations when selecting materials and coatings (OBO CMS) .

Installation Tips

• Use mounting plates or fasteners to attach supports securely to the building structure.
• Ensure alignment and level installation to prevent cable stress.
• For long spans, incorporate intermediate supports to reduce deflection.
• Select support type and material based on load, environment, and tray type (mesh, ladder, or solid-bottom trays) (PohlCon) .

Summary

Cable tray reinforcement supports are essential for safe, reliable, and code-compliant cable management. Proper selection of support type, material, spacing, and integration with tray fittings ensures long-term performance, reduces maintenance, and protects both personnel and equipment.