UK Industry Adopts BS EN 61537 Cable Trays for Safety

Imagine a massive data center with thousands of cables running like veins through its structure, carrying vital information. Without proper management and protection for these "veins," the consequences could be catastrophic. Cable tray systems serve as the essential infrastructure that ensures these critical pathways operate safely and efficiently.

Selecting standards-compliant cable trays isn't just about safety—it's an investment in long-term operational stability. The voestalpine Metsec cable tray system rigorously adheres to BS EN 61537 standards, providing robust cable management solutions that exceed industry requirements.

BS EN 61537 categorizes cable tray systems by material composition. Metsec systems utilize metal materials, offering superior mechanical strength, durability, and fire resistance. Metal construction provides physical protection for cables while ensuring reliable grounding paths to minimize electrical hazards.

Metsec cable trays are classified as non-flame propagating system components. In fire situations, these systems won't contribute to flame spread, providing crucial time for evacuation and firefighting efforts. This design represents a fundamental commitment to life safety and property protection.

Electrical continuity stands as a critical performance metric for cable tray systems. Metsec systems maintain excellent electrical continuity, ensuring reliable grounding connections throughout the network while minimizing electromagnetic interference. This stability proves essential for maintaining data transmission quality and equipment safety.

Cable trays frequently operate in demanding conditions, making corrosion resistance essential. Metsec offers multiple protective treatments to meet diverse environmental needs:

• Pre-galvanized: Uses zinc-coated steel per BS EN 10346 (Grade 275 or 350) for standard indoor applications
• Hot-dip galvanized: Features zinc coatings per BS EN ISO 1461 (minimum thicknesses: 45μm, 55μm, 70μm or 85μm) for outdoor or humid environments
• Stainless steel: Manufactured from ASTM-standard 304 (S30400) or 316L (S31603) stainless steel for extreme conditions like chemical plants or marine settings

Withstanding impacts up to 20J, Metsec trays provide robust protection against accidental damage, maintaining system stability under physical stress.

Every Metsec component features durable identification labels meeting friction test requirements, with additional packaging labels for traceability. Comprehensive documentation supports quality assurance protocols.

The system maintains a minimum internal bend radius of 125mm to prevent cable stress at turns.

Independent testing confirms Metsec trays meet BS EN 61537 load-bearing requirements across all temperature classifications, with surface inspections ensuring cable protection and ISO-compliant threaded connections rated for 12N/m tightening torque.

As with all metal systems, proper COSHH compliance and protective gloves are required during installation. All fittings require direct support from appropriate structural elements.