Basket-type cable tray installation

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Basket-style cable trays should be installed following NEC and manufacturer guidelines, ensuring proper support, grounding, and safe handling of cables.

Planning and Preparation

Before installation, plan the tray layout considering cable routing, load capacity, and environmental conditions. Ensure compliance with National Electrical Code (NEC) Article 392, NEMA VE 1, and NFPA 70E safety practices . Identify support points, bends, and transitions, and select the appropriate tray size, finish, and accessories for your application .

Cutting and Handling

When cutting basket tray sections, use proper cutting tools to avoid rough or burred edges that can damage cables. Cut at a 45° angle away from the new end, starting with the bottom wires, then the side wires . Always wear eye protection and handle cut sections carefully to prevent injury .

Mounting and Supports

Mounting brackets secure trays to ceilings, walls, or under raised floors. Use brackets compatible with the tray type and load requirements .
Support spacing depends on tray width and depth; larger trays may require additional supports. For example, no-splice supports are typically spaced every 5 feet, and larger trays may need extra clips per strut support .
Transitions and bends (30°, 45°, 90°, tees, intersections) should be supported at the top of the bend and at intervals to maintain structural integrity .

Splicing and Assembly

Bolted splices connect tray sections end-to-end and at intersections. Use manufacturer-supplied splice kits to ensure proper alignment and strength .
For painted trays, remove paint at splice points to ensure metal-to-metal contact for grounding .
Polymer sidewalls can be inserted into slots along the tray sides to contain cables, with tabs bent under the fitting base to secure them .

Grounding

Install a continuous grounding conductor along the tray pathway.
Use approved grounding connectors or split bolt clamps to bond tray sections, especially at field-cut fittings .
For trays not classified as equipment grounding conductors, provide a separate grounding path per NEC section 250.96 .

Cable Installation

Lay cables in the tray without exceeding fill capacity or ampacity limits.
Avoid using trays as walkways to prevent personal injury and cable damage .
Maintain proper separation of power and data cables if required for signal integrity.

Finishing and Inspection

Verify all splices, supports, and grounding connections are secure.
Ensure cables are properly contained and protected by sidewalls or covers.
Inspect for compliance with manufacturer instructions and local electrical codes . By following these steps, a basket-style cable tray system can be installed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with electrical standards, providing durable and organized cable management for your facility.

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