Side supports for cable trays are structural components such as brackets, clamps, and hangers designed to secure cable trays to walls, beams, or floors, ensuring stability and proper load distribution.

Overview of Side Supports

Side supports are essential for maintaining the integrity of cable tray systems, preventing sagging, and ensuring safe routing of electrical and communication cables. They are used in various installations, including industrial, commercial, and data center environments, and are compatible with different tray types such as ladder, ventilated, and solid-bottom trays .

Types of Side Supports

1. Wall Brackets and Angle Supports
   • Attach cable trays directly to walls or vertical surfaces.
   • Can be fixed or adjustable to accommodate different tray widths and heights.
   • Examples include wall angle support kits and profile-style ceiling supports .
2. Beam and C-Clamps
   • Used to secure trays to I-beams, wide flange beams, or structural angles.
   • Heavy-duty hold-down clamps and beam C-clamps provide rigid support and can handle loads up to 1,275 lbs depending on the model .
3. Strut and Channel Supports
   • Strut clips and channel clamps attach trays to standard strut channels without additional hardware.
   • Ideal for modular installations and allow easy adjustment of tray position .
4. Hangers and Trapeze Supports
   • Suspended supports that hang trays from ceilings or overhead structures.
   • Trapeze hangers distribute weight evenly and are suitable for long spans .
5. Specialty Clips and Hold-Downs
   • Include expansion guides, hold-down clamps, and retrofit clips for securing trays to existing structures.
   • Some are tool-free and reduce installation labor .

Material and Finish Options

Side supports are available in various materials to suit environmental conditions:

• Steel (plain, zinc-plated, or painted)
• Stainless steel (304SS, 316SS) for corrosion resistance
• Aluminum for lightweight applications
• Optional coatings are available for harsh industrial environments .

Installation Considerations

• Supports should be placed at intervals according to tray type and load, typically not exceeding the straight section length.
• Connectors and splice joints should fall between support points or near quarter points of the span .
• For expansion connections, supports are recommended within 2 feet on each side.
• Large radius fittings may require additional center supports to maintain stability .

Sourcing and Customization

Manufacturers like Eaton, MP Husky, nVent CADDY, TechLine Mfg, and ICS Industries offer a wide range of standard and custom side supports. Many provide CAD/BIM models, adjustable kits, and custom fabrication to meet specific project requirements . Side supports are critical for safe, durable, and code-compliant cable tray installations, ensuring proper load distribution and long-term reliability of electrical and communication systems.