How to install cable tray supports at corners

Cable tray corners can be installed by carefully cutting, bending, and securing the tray while maintaining proper bend radius and grounding.

Preparation and Planning

Before installing corners, ensure you have the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, and a hard hat. Review your project drawings to identify corner locations and check for potential clashes with HVAC, plumbing, or other services . Mark the tray route and support points using a chalk line or laser level, maintaining proper spacing between supports, typically 1.5 to 2 meters .

Tools and Materials

You will need:

• Power drill and wrench set
• Hacksaw or angle grinder for cutting trays
• File for deburring edges
• Cable tray couplers or splice plates
• Mounting brackets, threaded rods, and anchor bolts
• Grounding straps for electrical safety

Installing Corners for Wire Mesh Trays

Wire mesh trays are flexible and can be cut and bent on-site to navigate corners . Follow these steps:

1. Measure and Mark: Identify the exact location of the corner and mark the tray where cuts or bends are needed.
2. Cut Strategically: Make side cuts to allow the tray to bend smoothly around the corner without kinking the mesh.
3. Bend Carefully: Maintain a proper bend radius to prevent damage to Ethernet, fiber, or power cables. Avoid sharp angles that could pinch or stress cables.
4. Secure the Tray: Use couplers or splice plates to join the bent section to the straight sections. Ensure the tray is level and aligned with supports.
5. Grounding and Bonding: Verify that the corner section is properly grounded to maintain electrical safety.
6. Avoid Overfilling: Do not exceed the recommended fill ratio at corners to prevent cable compression and overheating .

Final Checks

After installation, inspect the corner for alignment, secure fastening, and proper cable spacing. Ensure that the tray is free from sharp edges and that all grounding connections are intact. This ensures both safety and long-term reliability of the cable tray system . By following these steps, you can efficiently install cable tray corners while maintaining structural integrity, cable protection, and compliance with electrical codes.