Strength of cable tray support bolts
The strength of cable tray support bolts depends on the bolt material, size, and installation standards, typically designed to safely support the mechanical loads of the cable tray system.
Bolt Material and Standards
Cable tray support bolts are usually made from steel or stainless steel, often galvanized for corrosion resistance, in compliance with standards such as ASTM A123, A653, A1008, and B633 for hot-dip or electroplated coatings . The choice of material affects the tensile strength and load-bearing capacity. Common bolt grades include Grade 5 (medium strength) and Grade 8 (high strength) for steel bolts, with tensile strengths ranging from approximately 120,000 psi to 150,000 psi.
Load Considerations
The bolts must support the weight of the cable tray, cables, fittings, and any dynamic loads such as vibration or environmental forces. Cable tray systems are designed according to NEMA VE 1 and NEC Article 392, which specify that supports must safely carry the expected load without excessive deflection or failure . The spacing of supports and the size of bolts are determined based on the tray type (ladder, solid-bottom, or mesh) and the total load per unit length.
Typical Bolt Sizes and Torque
- Bolt diameters commonly range from M8 to M12 (5/16" to 1/2") for standard cable tray installations.
- Torque values are selected according to the bolt grade and size to ensure proper clamping without over-stressing the bolt. For example, an M10 Grade 8 bolt typically requires 40–50 Nm torque.
- Washers and lock nuts are recommended to prevent loosening under vibration or thermal expansion .
Installation Guidelines
- Bolts should be tightened to the manufacturer's recommended torque to ensure full load capacity.
- Support brackets and hangers must be installed according to the cable tray manufacturer's specifications, considering span length, tray type, and environmental conditions .
- For suspended trays, the load per bolt is calculated by dividing the total supported weight by the number of bolts per support point, ensuring a safety factor of at least 1.5–2.
Summary
The strength of cable tray support bolts is determined by material, size, grade, and installation method, and must comply with ASTM, NEMA, and NEC standards. Proper selection and installation ensure that the bolts can safely carry the mechanical loads of the cable tray system, including cables, fittings, and environmental forces, while maintaining long-term reliability and safety .
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