Thickness of New Zealand Cable Tray

Cable tray thickness in New Zealand varies by tray type and duty class, typically ranging from 1.2 mm to 3.0 mm for steel trays.

Standard Thickness by Tray Type

• Ladder Trays: Designed for heavy cable loads and long spans, ladder trays generally have side rail thicknesses from 1.6 mm to 3.0 mm, depending on load requirements and span length. The rung thickness is also critical for structural integrity and heat dissipation .
• Perforated (Trough) Trays: These trays provide continuous bottom support with ventilation openings. Typical material thickness ranges from 1.2 mm to 2.5 mm, balancing cable support with airflow .
• Channel Trays: Compact trays for small cable runs and control wiring usually have thicknesses around 1.2 mm to 2.0 mm, as they are intended for light-duty applications .
• Wire Mesh (Basket) Trays: Thickness is determined by wire diameter rather than sheet metal. Standard wire diameters range from 2.0 mm to 4.0 mm, with spacing and support affecting load capacity .

Material Considerations

Cable trays in New Zealand are commonly made from pre-galvanized steel, hot-dip galvanized steel, or Zn-Mg-Al alloy-coated steel for corrosion resistance . Powder coating or painting is also available for additional protection. The choice of material and thickness affects load capacity, allowable span, and long-term durability.

Compliance and Selection

When selecting cable tray thickness, consider:

• Load requirements: Heavier power cables require thicker side rails and rungs.
• Span length: Longer unsupported spans need thicker material to prevent deflection.
• Environmental conditions: Corrosive environments may require thicker or coated trays.
• Standards: While New Zealand does not have a unique national thickness standard, trays generally follow NEMA, IEC, and NEC guidelines for structural performance . Choosing the correct thickness ensures structural integrity, compliance, and long-term reliability of cable installations in commercial, industrial, and renewable energy projects.