Wire mesh cable trays have become a vital component in modern electrical installations, offering flexibility, durability, and easy customization for routing cables. In complex installations, bending wire mesh cable trays is essential to ensure they fit around architectural obstacles and align with the layout of the space. Understanding the various bending types for wire mesh cable trays can simplify installation, reduce costs, and improve overall cable management.
At Madewithless, we understand that getting the right bends is crucial to the success of any cable management project. In this blog, we’ll explore the different bending types for wire mesh cable trays and provide insights on the best methods for achieving them.
Why Bending Wire Mesh Cable Trays is Important?
Wire mesh cable trays offer flexibility in design, allowing for bends that help installers navigate complex layouts, avoid obstacles, and ensure proper cable routing. By bending the trays rather than cutting and reconnecting them, installers can maintain the structural integrity of the tray and minimize the number of joints, which improves both stability and cable protection.
Bending also enables the following advantages:
- Improved Installation Efficiency: Fewer connectors are needed, reducing the time and effort required for the installation.
- Better Cable Protection: Smooth bends minimize sharp turns and pressure points, ensuring cables remain undamaged.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Seamless, continuous trays with well-formed bends provide a clean, professional look.
Wire Mesh Cable Tray Manufacturer
Types of Bending in Wire Mesh Cable Trays
Several types of bends can be applied to wire mesh cable trays, each suited to different installation requirements. Below are the most common bending types and their practical applications:
- Horizontal Bend
- Use: A horizontal bend changes the direction of the tray within the same horizontal plane, typically to route cables around obstacles such as walls or machinery.
- Typical Angles: Bends can range from 30 to 90 degrees, depending on the specific routing needs.
- Process: Sections of the mesh are carefully cut and bent to form the desired angle while maintaining smooth transitions for cables. Reinforcement may be added to maintain tray strength after cutting.
- Vertical Inside Bend
- Use: This bend allows the tray to ascend vertically, moving from a lower to a higher level.
- Application: Ideal for installations where cables need to be routed upward, such as transitioning from floor-level trays to ceiling-mounted systems.
- Process: The tray is bent upwards to guide the cables smoothly, ensuring that there are no sharp edges that could damage the cables.
- Vertical Outside Bend
- Use: Opposite to the inside bend, a vertical outside bend guides the tray downward.
- Application: Commonly used when cables need to drop from a ceiling or overhead tray system to lower levels or the ground.
- Process: The tray is bent downwards at a specific angle, ensuring that the cables can descend smoothly without undue tension or kinks.
- Horizontal T-Junction
- Use: A T-junction bend is used when cables need to branch off from the main tray in multiple directions.
- Application: Common in installations where different equipment requires connections from a single cable run.
- Process: A section of the mesh is cut to form the junction, and additional support is added to ensure the tray remains structurally sound.
- Custom Radius Bend
- Use: Custom radius bends are designed to accommodate unique architectural layouts or specific project requirements.
- Application: This type of bend is often used when navigating large columns, rounded structures, or curved walls.
- Process: The wire mesh is carefully bent to a precise radius, ensuring a smooth curve that supports the cables without causing damage or excessive strain.
Bending Methods for Wire Mesh Cable Trays
There are several methods for bending wire mesh cable trays, each suited to different types of bends and installation scales:
- Manual Bending
- Description: For small or simple bends, manual bending tools such as pliers or wire cutters can be used. This method is best for installations requiring a few bends and minor adjustments.
- Tips: Use this method for small projects and make sure to apply even pressure to avoid distorting the mesh. Reinforce any cut sections to maintain strength.
- Mechanical Bending
- Description: Mechanical bending tools are used for larger-scale projects where precision and consistency are crucial. These tools apply uniform pressure to create smooth, even bends.
- Tips: Mechanical bending is ideal for ensuring that complex bends are consistent and smooth, particularly for horizontal and vertical bends that require precise angles.
- Cut-and-Bend
- Description: In some cases, parts of the wire mesh need to be cut to form sharp angles or custom bends. After cutting, the mesh is bent into the desired shape, and the cut edges are reinforced using connectors or fasteners.
- Tips: When using this method, ensure that all cut edges are securely reinforced to maintain the tray’s load-bearing capacity and prevent structural weaknesses.
- Pre-Bent Sections
- Description: For projects requiring repetitive bends, pre-bent sections of wire mesh cable trays can be ordered from the manufacturer. These sections are factory-produced to specific angles or dimensions.
- Tips: Pre-bent sections can significantly speed up installation time and ensure that all bends are uniform. This method is ideal for large installations with consistent bending requirements.
SS wire Mesh Cable Tray Manufacturer
Tips for Successful Bending of Wire Mesh Cable Trays
To ensure smooth bends and a high-quality installation, follow these tips:
- Measure Carefully: Accurate measurements are essential before cutting or bending the tray. Use proper measuring tools and double-check dimensions to avoid mistakes.
- Use the Right Tools: Always choose the correct bending tools based on the complexity and scale of the project. Manual tools work for small jobs, while mechanical tools are better for precise, large-scale bending.
- Avoid Over-Bending: Over-bending the wire mesh can weaken the tray and affect its ability to support cables. Stick to smooth, gradual bends to maintain structural integrity.
- Reinforce After Cutting: If any sections of the wire mesh need to be cut, ensure that the cut edges are reinforced with appropriate clips or fasteners to avoid weak points in the tray.
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for bending the wire mesh cable trays, as these instructions are designed to maintain the product’s performance and warranty.
Why Choose Madewithless Wire Mesh Cable Trays?
At Madewithless, we are committed to providing high-quality wire mesh cable trays that are easy to install and designed to withstand the demands of complex installations. Our products are manufactured with sustainability and durability in mind, ensuring that your cable management system is both reliable and environmentally friendly.
Our wire mesh cable trays are designed to be highly flexible, making them ideal for installations requiring a variety of bends. With Madewithless, you can trust that your cable management system will be strong, secure, and adaptable to any layout or environment.
Conclusion
Bending wire mesh cable trays is a key part of creating a flexible and efficient cable management system. By understanding the different types of bends and using the right techniques, you can ensure that your installation meets both aesthetic and functional needs.
At Madewithless, we are here to support you with premium-quality wire mesh cable trays and expert advice on bending and installation. Reach out to us today for more information on how we can help you achieve a successful cable management system.
