Combined Cable Tray for Low Voltage and Fire Protection

Fire-resistant cable trays can safely carry low-voltage electrical systems alongside fire protection circuits, maintaining circuit integrity during a fire.

Purpose and Benefits

Combined cable trays are designed to protect low-voltage and fire protection cables from fire, heat, and mechanical damage while ensuring that critical systems remain operational during emergencies. They provide:

• Safe routing for fire system wires such as alarms, sprinklers, and emergency lighting, ensuring these systems function during a fire .
• Protection for low-voltage circuits used for communication, control, or monitoring, preventing fire-induced failures .
• Ease of installation and maintenance, as modular trays allow quick access to cables for inspection or replacement .

Materials and Fire Resistance

Cable trays for combined use are typically made from steel, stainless steel, or coated metals with fire-resistant properties. Fireproof trays are tested to withstand high temperatures for extended periods:

• DIN 4102-12 standard: Trays are tested in ovens up to 1000°C for 30, 60, and 90 minutes to ensure fire resistance .
• BS EN 1366-5:2003: Assesses cable enclosures for fire from both inside and outside, suitable for life-safety cables .
• Fire-resistant trays maintain circuit integrity, allowing emergency systems to operate during a fire .

Installation Considerations

• Segregation: While combined trays can carry both fire protection and low-voltage cables, it is recommended to segregate circuits where possible to reduce interference and maintain safety.
• Cable cleats and supports: Use fire-rated cleats and modular supports to secure cables and prevent movement during a fire .
• Modular design: Prefabricated sections allow for easier installation, inspection, and future modifications .
• Compliance: Ensure the system meets local fire safety regulations and standards for circuit integrity and cable performance.

Applications

Combined fire-resistant cable trays are widely used in:

• Commercial and high-rise buildings for emergency lighting, fire alarms, and low-voltage control systems.
• Industrial facilities including oil, gas, and petrochemical plants where fire safety is critical .
• Substations and power distribution where low-voltage control and monitoring cables must remain operational during fire events .

Recommended Products and Systems

• Cablofil fireproof cable trays: Tested to DIN 4102-12, suitable for LV and HV cables in fire-critical environments .
• Durasteel enclosures: Compliant with BS EN 1366-5, used for life-safety cable protection .
• Basor Electric fire-resistant trays: Designed to maintain functionality of emergency systems under fire conditions . Using these systems ensures that both fire protection and low-voltage electrical circuits remain operational, enhancing safety and compliance in critical installations.