Cable tray cutting from the source manufacturer

Cable trays can be custom-cut or made-to-order directly from manufacturers using specialized equipment and following safety and design guidelines.

Made-to-Order Cable Trays

Manufacturers like Atkore's US Tray offer made-to-order cable trays built to NEMA standards and UL certified. These trays can be customized in width, height, and length according to your project requirements. Options include wire basket trays, I-beam trays, and C-channel trays, all designed for optimal airflow, dust protection, and structural support. Custom orders allow the manufacturer to cut trays to your specifications before shipping, reducing on-site cutting needs and ensuring compliance with standards .

Cutting Guidelines and Safety

For on-site cutting, manufacturers such as Oglaend System provide detailed cutting guidelines. Key recommendations include:

• Use a band saw with a blade suitable for the material thickness to minimize burrs and swarf.
• Always wear Kevlar gloves, eye protection, headgear, and appropriate footwear.
• Remove any burrs after cutting to prevent injuries and ensure proper tray assembly.
• Protect surrounding materials from sparks and overheating during cutting .

These guidelines are applicable to modular cable trays, ladders, and support channels, and should be followed to maintain safety and structural integrity.

Factory Cutting and Rollforming

Some manufacturers, like Dimeco, use rollforming lines to cut trays from blanks or coils. These lines are electronically controlled to ensure precise feeding, punching, and cutting. The system can adjust for different tray widths and heights, and sometimes includes a narrowing system to connect tray sections seamlessly. Cutting can occur before or after rollforming, depending on the tray design .

Specialized Cutting Tools

For installers or smaller operations, profile metal shears from companies like DRACO Tools allow spark-free, precise cutting of cable trays, lids, ladders, and other profiles. These shears prevent deformation and burr formation, and can handle angled cuts, folded trays, and coated materials in one operation .

Summary

When sourcing cable trays from the manufacturer, you have two main options: pre-cut, made-to-order trays or on-site cutting using proper tools and safety procedures. Factory-cut trays reduce installation time and ensure compliance with standards, while specialized shears and band saws allow flexibility for adjustments on-site. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and safety protocols to maintain quality and prevent injuries.