Standards for Angle Steel in Cable Tray Hangers

Angle steel for cable tray supports and hangers is typically made from carbon steel or stainless steel, with dimensions and thickness selected based on load, span, and compliance with standards such as DIN EN 61537 and BS EN 61537.

Material and Corrosion Protection

Angle steel used in cable tray supports is generally high-quality carbon steel or stainless steel. To enhance durability and prevent corrosion, surfaces may be galvanized, powder-coated, or otherwise treated depending on environmental conditions, such as exposure to moisture, chemicals, or outdoor weather. Stainless steel is preferred in highly corrosive environments.

Dimensions and Load Considerations

Angle sizes commonly range from 25x25 mm to 50x50 mm, with thicknesses from 2 mm to 5 mm, depending on the span between supports and the weight of the cable load. Load capacity is influenced by the angle steel's cross-section, the span between hangers, and the type of cable tray (ladder, solid-bottom, or mesh). Support spacing is typically determined by the cable tray manufacturer's guidelines and standards, ensuring the system can withstand mechanical loads, including cable weight, wind, ice, and short-circuit forces.

Standards and Compliance

Cable tray supports and hangers must comply with DIN EN 61537 (Europe) or BS EN 61537 (UK) for cable management systems. Channel support systems may follow BS 6946 for safe working loads and slip resistance. Angle steel and associated fasteners should be tested as a system to ensure mechanical stability and safety.

Installation Guidelines

Angle steel is used as support brackets, wall mounts, or suspended hangers to secure cable trays to ceilings, walls, or structural beams. Mounting elements such as bolts, nuts, and channel nuts are used to attach the angle steel to the structure and cable tray. Supports should be aligned and level, and the system should allow for thermal expansion and vibration without compromising cable integrity.

Practical Recommendations

Select angle steel thickness and size based on the span and load class of the cable tray. Use galvanized or stainless steel in corrosive or outdoor environments. Ensure all components are compatible and tested together to maintain system integrity.

Follow manufacturer guidelines for support spacing, hanger type, and installation method to comply with safety standards. By adhering to these specifications, angle steel supports and hangers will provide safe, durable, and compliant support for cable tray systems in industrial, commercial, or data center installations.