Materials for turning trough-type cable trays

Trough-type cable trays are commonly made from galvanized steel, aluminum, or fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP), chosen based on environmental conditions, mechanical strength, and corrosion resistance.

Common Materials

1. Galvanized Steel Galvanized steel is widely used for trough-type cable trays due to its high mechanical strength and durability. The steel is coated with zinc to protect against corrosion, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor installations where moderate exposure to moisture or chemicals occurs. It is often specified according to ASTM standards such as A123, A653, and A1008 for structural quality and zinc coating thickness, ensuring long-term reliability in industrial and commercial applications . 2. Aluminum Aluminum trays are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and easily formable, making them ideal for environments where weight reduction is important or where exposure to atmospheric agents is significant. Aluminum naturally forms a protective oxide layer (alumina), which enhances its resistance to corrosion. Specific aluminum alloys are selected for their strength, hardness, and resistance to stress corrosion and pitting, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations . 3. Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) FRP trays are non-metallic, corrosion-resistant, and electrically non-conductive, which makes them suitable for highly corrosive environments, chemical plants, or areas with high humidity. They are lightweight and provide excellent protection for sensitive cables, such as communication or instrumentation lines, while also offering good dust-proof and moisture-proof performance .

Material Selection Considerations

• Environmental Conditions: For outdoor or corrosive environments, aluminum or FRP is preferred over plain steel. Galvanized steel is suitable for general indoor use.
• Mechanical Load: Steel provides the highest load-bearing capacity, while aluminum and FRP are lighter but may require additional support for heavy cable loads.
• Electrical Safety: FRP is non-conductive, reducing the risk of electrical hazards in sensitive installations.
• Durability and Maintenance: Aluminum and FRP require less maintenance in corrosive environments, whereas steel may need periodic inspection and coating maintenance.

Summary

For turning trough-type cable trays, the choice of material depends on the installation environment, load requirements, and corrosion exposure. Galvanized steel is ideal for strength and general use, aluminum for lightweight and corrosion resistance, and FRP for highly corrosive or electrically sensitive environments. Proper material selection ensures long-term durability, safety, and reliable cable management .