Cable type for cable tray crossarm fixing

Type TC (Tray Cable) or Type MC (Metal Clad) cables are commonly used for cable tray crossarm installations, depending on load, environment, and electrical requirements.

Recommended Cable Types

1. Type TC (Tray Cable)
   • Factory-assembled with two or more insulated conductors, optionally with grounding conductors, under a non-metallic jacket.
   • Rated for 600 volts, suitable for power and control circuits.
   • Flame-retardant and UL-listed for industrial and hazardous locations.
   • Can be installed in cable trays, raceways, or outdoor locations with support.
   • Requires securing at intervals not exceeding six feet, ensuring stability when fixed to crossarms .
2. Type MC (Metal Clad Cable)
   • Contains insulated conductors with or without optical fibers, enclosed in interlocking metal armor.
   • Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, including wet or hazardous locations.
   • Provides mechanical protection, making it ideal for heavier loads or exposed installations.
   • Must be supported and secured at intervals not exceeding six feet, compatible with crossarm support systems .
3. Type ITC (Instrumentation Tray Cable)
   • Used for instrumentation and control applications, available in shielded or unshielded forms.
   • Can be installed in cable trays where additional protection or EMI shielding is required .

Crossarm Fixing Considerations

• Crossarm Installation: For large-sized cable trays, crossarms provide robust horizontal support. Each crossarm typically requires two suspension rods and two sets of fastening kits to ensure stability .
• Material and Protection: Suspension rods and crossarms are usually made of Q235 carbon steel or stainless steel (201, 304, 316), often with hot-dip galvanizing or fireproofing for corrosion and environmental protection .
• Spacing: Recommended installation ratio is one crossarm per 1.5–2 meters of cable tray, ensuring proper load distribution and minimizing stress on cables .

Practical Tips

• Ensure the selected cable type matches the electrical load, voltage rating, and environmental conditions.
• Use TC-ER cables if short unsupported transitions between trays and equipment are needed.
• For heavier or outdoor installations, MC cables provide additional mechanical protection.
• Always secure cables to the crossarm using appropriate clamps or fastening kits to prevent sagging or movement. By selecting the correct cable type and following proper crossarm installation practices, you ensure safe, durable, and code-compliant cable tray systems.