LAPP Tannehill Highlights Tray Cable Safety for Industrial Efficiency

In complex industrial environments, cables function like veins, distributing power, signals, and control commands. Damage to these critical "veins" can disrupt production or even trigger safety incidents. Ensuring their reliability is paramount—enter tray cables, the unsung heroes safeguarding industrial systems.

Tray cables are multi-conductor or multi-pair cables specifically designed for installation in cable trays and conduits. Defined by the National Electrical Code (NEC) as "factory-assembled cables with two or more insulated conductors under a nonmetallic sheath," they are approved for open support in trays, raceways, or messenger wires.

Unlike fully enclosed conduits, cable trays provide open support, necessitating stringent durability standards to mitigate mechanical damage and fire risks. Tray cables are engineered to withstand harsh conditions while maintaining performance.

• Indoor/Outdoor Use: Adaptable to diverse environmental conditions.
• Weather Resistance: UV-resistant, heat-tolerant, and moisture-proof, complying with UL standards.
• Voltage Options: Available in 300V and 600V ratings, both flame-retardant certified.
• Direct Burial Capability: Select models are suitable for underground installation.
• Exposed Run Durability: Operates reliably without additional protection between conduits and equipment.
• Easy Installation: Requires support every six feet for exposed runs per NEC guidelines.

Rigorously tested for quality, some tray cables feature armored conductors for superior insulation and abrasion resistance. They meet UL 1569 standards for impact and crush resistance, eliminating the need for conduits—reducing installation costs and simplifying wiring.

Their applications span industries requiring tray or raceway installations, including power distribution, control systems, instrumentation, and lighting. Common use cases include:

• Industrial facility expansions
• Food and beverage processing plants (e.g., breweries)
• Automotive manufacturing
• Wind energy systems
• Machine tools
• Petrochemical equipment
• Cold storage facilities