Various Types of Cable Tray Funnels

Cable tray funnels are specialized fittings used to guide cables into or out of tray systems, available in various materials, sizes, and standards-compliant models.OverviewCable tray funnels, also known as cable entry or drop-out funnels, are designed to smoothly transition cables from a tray to enclosures, conduits, or equipment, minimizing stress and maintaining proper bend radius. They are considered part of the fittings and accessories in cable tray systems, which also include bends, tees, elbows, and drop-outs .Materials and FinishesCable tray funnels are typically manufactured from:Steel: Hot-dip galvanized (ASTM A123) or zinc-coated (ASTM A653) for corrosion resistance .Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, suitable for indoor and outdoor applications .Stainless Steel: For high-corrosion or hygienic environments.Plastic/Polymer: For light-duty or chemical-resistant applications. Finishes may include powder coating, epoxy coating, or anodizing depending on environmental requirements .Standards and ComplianceCable tray funnels and associated fittings generally comply with:ANSI/NFPA 70 – National Electrical Code for electrical safety .NEMA VE 1 & VE 2 for metallic cable tray systems and installation guidelines .ASTM standards for material quality, including A123, A653, A1011, and B633 .RoHS and REACH directives for environmental compliance in Europe .Models and TypesFunnel models vary based on tray type, size, and application:Ladder Type Funnels: Compatible with ladder cable trays, allowing easy cable entry while maintaining support.Trough Type Funnels: Designed for solid-bottom or ventilated trays, guiding cables into enclosures.Adjustable or Modular Funnels: Can fit multiple tray widths and angles.Custom Funnels: Fabricated for specific equipment or non-standard tray layouts . Sizes are typically matched to the inside width of the tray and the number of cables to be routed, ensuring proper bend radius and minimizing cable stress.Accessories and IntegrationCable tray funnels are often used with:Clamps and brackets for secure attachment .Hanger rods and supports to maintain alignment.Splice plates and expansion joints for continuous tray runs.Covers to protect cables from dust or mechanical damage .Resources and CAD ModelsManufacturers provide CAD drawings and BIM objects for design integration:ABB T&B Cabletray offers over 4,000 CAD drawings for fittings, including funnels .Legrand and ApexTray provide technical guides and downloadable specifications for all tray accessories .SFSP offers ISO-certified, hot-dip galvanized steel funnels and fittings with detailed technical catalogs .SummaryCable tray funnels are essential for safe and efficient cable routing, available in steel, aluminum, stainless steel, or polymer, and compliant with ANSI/NFPA, NEMA, and ASTM standards. They come in ladder, trough, and custom models, and are supported by a wide range of accessories and CAD resources for engineering and installation purposes .