Cable Tray Conductive Strip Specifications

Cable tray conductive strips are metallic components designed to provide grounding and bonding, typically made of copper or tinned copper, and must comply with electrical and mechanical standards such as ANSI/NFPA 70 and NEMA VE 1.Material and ConstructionConductive strips in cable trays are generally made from high-conductivity metals, most commonly copper or tinned copper, to ensure reliable electrical continuity and corrosion resistance. In some cases, aluminum may be used for lightweight applications, but copper remains the preferred material due to its superior conductivity and durability . The strips are often flat or slightly raised to fit securely along the tray's side rails or bottom, ensuring consistent contact with the tray and cables.Dimensions and InstallationThe width and thickness of conductive strips vary depending on the tray size and current-carrying requirements. Typical widths range from 25 mm to 50 mm, with thicknesses from 1.5 mm to 3 mm, providing sufficient mechanical strength and low-resistance grounding paths . Strips are installed along the side rails or ladder rungs and are secured using bolts, clamps, or integrated fasteners to maintain electrical continuity across tray sections.Electrical and Mechanical StandardsCable tray conductive strips must comply with ANSI/NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code) for grounding and bonding, and NEMA VE 1 for metallic cable tray systems . They should also meet UL certification requirements where applicable, ensuring safe operation under rated voltage and current conditions. The strips must maintain low electrical resistance to provide effective grounding and prevent potential differences between tray sections.Corrosion Resistance and FinishesTo ensure long-term performance, conductive strips are often tinned, plated, or coated to resist corrosion, especially in humid or industrial environments . Stainless steel fasteners or protective coatings may be used in conjunction with copper strips to prevent galvanic corrosion when installed with steel trays.ApplicationsConductive strips are used in ladder, ventilated, and solid-bottom cable trays to:Provide a continuous grounding path along the tray systemFacilitate bonding of tray sections to prevent electrical hazardsReduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) in sensitive installationsEnsure compliance with safety and electrical codes In summary, cable tray conductive strips are metallic, corrosion-resistant components designed to maintain electrical continuity and grounding across cable tray systems, with dimensions and materials selected according to current-carrying requirements, tray type, and applicable standards. Proper installation ensures both mechanical stability and electrical safety.