Cable trays are used in a variety of electrical systems, where cable trays have their importance. Tray resistant establishments support commercial induses. While automotive, wind energy, and petrochemical industries benefit from using tray cables. Below, some basic kinds of tray cables that can be found in the market are described.
Understanding Tray Cables
What is Tray Cable?
A tray cable incorporates two or more conductors which are meant to be installed in a cable tray. In industrial usage, tray cables maintain dependable power and signal distribution. Tray cables are also widely utilized in hot and dry areas, like the automotive, mining and oil fields industries.
Why use them?
In comparison with other versions of cables, tray cables have numerous merits. The cable’s structure is robust enough hence can handle environmental and physical wear and tear shocks. The use of tray cables does away with the use of a conduit such that installation and maintenance costs are lowered. A flexible jacketing is also designed to reduce the tedious procedure of installing wires. Tray cables have the required characteristics to satisfy the safety and reliability requirements as prescribed by the UL and NEC.
Materials Used?
Tray cables are manufactured utilizing high grade cosmetics material which takes care of performance and longevity. Armored conductors are common and guarantee insulating protection. The outer jacket is well reinforced with severe resistance against abrasion and abusing weather conditions. Tray cables have single cores or multicore insulations and jackets. Such designs are for various utility power and controlling needs. Cable can either be single core or multi core or multi pair. tray cables are fitted with a shield which as well aims at reducing interference. Cables withstand 90ºC in dry environments and 75ºC in wet environments all for the operating condition. Tray cables have high resistance to sunlight, cold bend, and cold shock.
Types of Tray Cable
1.Power Limited Tray Cable (PLTC)
This cable is rated at 300V and is appropriate for control circuits, alarms, low voltage equipment etc. It is intended about limiting efficiency so as not to generate sparks where there are flammable materials hence can only be used in delicate zones.
2.Service Tray Cable (SDT)
It is a cable for the external purposes of bringing electricity from poles to the buildings. It is a durable cable and can be used on the outside even under extreme conditions since it is resistant to UV rays and moisture.
3.Shielded Tray Cable
This cable has shields for protection against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). It can be used in communication and control lines where there are high expectations of preserving the signals.
4.Flexible Tray Cables
The type of flexible cables that are particularly meant for use in applications such as robotics and other automation areas which require repetitive movement or bending occurrence. It is designed to be more flexible and tougher and reliable when digital bending is required during functioning.
5.Fiber Optic Tray Cable
It suitable for high speed data transmission such low signal attenuation and high bandwidth. It Applicable for communication systems aimed at speedy and effective delivery in tons of information without wasting time.
6.Polyethylene Sheathed Tray Cable (PLC)
The cable has an additional outer sheath made of polyethylene which is added for environmental safety. Reasonable permanent installation with no restrictions on weather . Packing material is waterproof and UV resistant; hence it can be used in outdoor and highly moist regions.
7.Vinyl Nylon Tray Cable (VNTC)
Rated for 600v, this type of cable has a vinyl nylon jacket. PLTC cables are able to handle lesser current and voltages due to their less flexible designs and hence, this makes it more useful for electrical purposes considering temperature situations. Electric cables of this nature are meant to be used in industries where there are elevated temperatures and chemical contents.
8.Wet Tray Cable (WTTC/Direct Burial)
Wet-Type Cable (WTTC) or Direct Burial Cable is a ruggedized cable type that can also be placed in rather stringent and hostile conditions, particularly flooding and long earth burials at the beach, where cable damage due to water is not a concern.
Each type of tray cable meets specific standards and regulations to make certain suitability for its intended application. When selecting tray cables, factors such as voltage rating, environmental resistance and compatibility with cable tray systems must be considered.
FAQs about Tray Cables
What Makes a Tray Cable Different from a Standard Multi-Conductor Cable?
Tray-rated cables are designed to withstand harsh environments, including exposure to moisture, direct sunlight, and chemicals. They are also tested to meet specific flammability standards, making them safer for use in confined spaces.
Can tray cable be used in residential projects?
Traditionally, tray cables are used for industrial and commercial applications. However, under certain conditions, tray cables can indeed be used in residential projects. Examples include cables that power detached garages, outdoor lighting, and cables within HVAC systems.
How Do You Route Tray Cables in a Cable Tray?
Cables should be routed neatly and securely within the tray, avoiding sharp bends that could damage the cable. Proper support and separation of power and control cables may also be required.
How to select the appropriate cable and what are the safety considerations?
- Compliance with NEC and UL standards ensures safety.
- Flame-retardant properties reduce fire risks.
- Proper grounding and bonding prevent electrical hazards.
- Secure connections and regular inspections enhance safety.
The type of tray cable chosen leads to both toughness and versatility. Each kind of tray cable is made for certain conditions and applications. ZW cable is providing a variety of palletized cables that comply with strict specifications for your varied applications.
