Cable trays are allowed to have openings
Cable trays must remain in open, accessible areas to allow for proper maintenance. Cable Types: Only use conductors rated for open-air environments, such as Tray Rated (Type TC) or Metal-Clad (Type MC) cables. Clearances: Maintain at least 12 inches of vertical clearance above trays for installation and maintenance access (2026 NEC update). Cable trays can be used as a support system for various wiring methods, including service conductors, feeders, branch circuits, communications circuits, control circuits, and signaling circuits (392. In this installment of our Code Corner series, Ryan Mayfield focuses on the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC) changes concerning cable trays, particularly section 690. What are the reasons for selecting a specific type of cable tray? The engineer or designer should select the type of cable tray that has the features which best serve the project's requirements.
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