Installing elbows on mesh cable trays

Cable tray elbows must be properly supported, bonded, and installed according to NEMA VE 2 and manufacturer guidelines to ensure structural integrity and safe cable routing.Support and PlacementElbows in mesh cable trays should be supported according to NEMA VE 2 requirements. Supports must be positioned so that connectors between horizontal straight sections of the tray fall between the support point and the quarter-point of the span, avoiding placement at the center of the span or directly on supports. This ensures that the elbow and connected tray sections are stable and can handle the weight of the cables without sagging or undue stress .Fastening and MovementCable trays, including elbows, should be fastened to the support system using guides that allow for longitudinal movement. This accommodates thermal expansion and contraction, particularly in long runs or outdoor installations. Expansion connectors should be provided at building expansion joints and at intervals of 30 meters (100 feet) or as specified by NEMA VE 2 .Bonding and GroundingAll cable tray systems, including elbows, must be bonded together with bonding jumpers. A bonding jumper should be installed at each expansion joint, and cable trays must be grounded at least every 15 meters (50 feet) and at both ends. Conduit drop-outs connected to the tray should also be bonded using a grounding bushing and compression lug .Mesh Cable Tray SpecificsMesh cable trays allow for easy creation of bends, branches, and exits due to their separable wires and bending capacity. When installing elbows, ensure that the minimum bend radius for cables is maintained to prevent damage. The mesh design also facilitates proper ventilation and cable management, which is critical when routing multiple cables through elbows .Summary of Key PointsSupport elbows per NEMA VE 2, avoiding center-of-span placement.Use guides to allow longitudinal movement and provide expansion connectors.Bond and ground all tray sections, including elbows, according to standards.Maintain minimum bend radius for cables and leverage mesh flexibility for smooth bends.Follow manufacturer-specific instructions for installation and material compatibility.Proper adherence to these requirements ensures safe, durable, and code-compliant installation of elbows in mesh cable tray systems.