TC-ER-rated cables can be installed in exposed runs outside the cable tray, up to 6 feet between the cable tray and connected equipment, and without conduit—provided that the cable is secured and protected from mechanical damage, per code. Fill Limits: For power cables, the fill must not exceed 40% of the tray's cross-sectional area; for control cables, it's 50%. In many cases there is more than one type of cable for a particular application, for instance both cables rated as tray cable (TC) and cables rated as metal clad (MC) can be used for. Answer: The 1996 NEC in sections 318-6 (i) and (j) indicates that there shall be sufficient space maintained around cable trays to allow adequate access for installing and maintaining the cables and that cable trays shall be exposed and accessible. Conduit, on the other hand, is a rigid or flexible tube that provides additional mechanical protection and environmental. maintain spacing or to keep cables in place when the tray is ect the minimum bend ra-dius for cables as they exit the bottom of the cable tray. If cables are just thrown in, you risk problems like slow internet, overheating wires, or even electrical shocks. Nobody wants that! This guide will walk you through the simple, clear principles for getting cable.
