Tray Cable
Galaxy is a leading supplier of tray cables.
Tray Cables
Galaxy is a leading supplier of stock and custom tray cables. Galaxy can supply various types of tray cable in various AWG sizes, voltage ratings, compounds, shielding constructions, and conductor counts. Galaxy can also recommend the correct tray cable for specific applications.
What is a Tray Cable?
A tray cable, or TC as it is commonly referred to, is a multi-conductor cable that is used in industrial environments, designed for power and signal transmission. These cables are often installed through ducts, wire trays, and conduit. Tray cables are often found in an industrial environment which at times can be harsh due to exposure to high temperatures and different chemicals. in some applications, tray cables are installed in buildings and are required to be plenum rated. Plenum rated cables are cables that comply with flammability and smoke specifications set forth by the National Electrical Code (NEC). Tray cables are primarily UL rated, can be shielded or unshielded, and are offered in 300V and 600V. Another type of tray cable is PLTC that stands for Power Limited Tray Cable. PLTC is only rated up to 300V.
Tray Cable Applications
There are many and varied tray cable applications; these include, but are not limited to:
- Factory Control Systems
- Oil and Gas Refineries
- Industrial Automation
- Sensors
- Alarm Circuitry
Galaxy Differentiators / Advantages for Tray Cables
Galaxy can supply a full array of tray cables with low minimum quantities and competitive lead times. During the selection process it is critical to understand the application of the end use. Galaxy’s Sales Engineers have extensive experience assisting customers choose the right configuration when building the correct tray cable. Galaxy will help navigate the possibilities and provide the best tray cable to match the application. If a stock tray cable is not available, Galaxy can assist in the design of the perfect custom cable for the intended application.
Features
Galaxy offers tray cables with the following characteristics:
- Multi-Conductors
- Twisted Shielded Conductors
- Foil and Braid Shields
- UV Resistant
- UL Rated
Tray Cable Materials
Tray cables from Galaxy are available with the following materials:
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)
- PVC/Nylon (VNTC)
- Chlorinated Polyethylene (CPE)
- Cross-linked Polyethylene (XLPE)
- Hypalon
Tray Cable Technical Specifications
Galaxy offers tray cable in the following ranges of technical specifications:
- Gauge: 4/0 to 30AWG
- Voltage: 300V – 600V
- Temperature: Up to 150°C
FAQs about Tray Cables
What approvals do PLTCs (Power Limited Tray Cables) carry?
PLTCs are approved for use in NEC Article 725 and carries UL approval for use in cable trays. UL Subject 13 is rated for 105°C and 300V. PLTC cable can also be approved for Class I and II, Division 2 Hazardous Locations.
Terminology Notes
There are various terms used in the wire and cable industry related to this type of cable. They include:
- PLTC, which stands for Power Limited Tray Cable. These cables are typically used for applications that have power limited circuits such as an alarm system.
- VNTC, which stands for Vinyl Nylon Tray Cable. A VNTC cable is constructed using THHN or TFFN conductors with a PVC outer jacket. These cables are flame retardant.
- TC-ER, which stands for Tray Cable – Exposed Run. These cables are used when they cannot be installed in a closed environment like conduit or a tray.
- TC-ER-HL, which stands for Tray Cable – Exposed Run in a Hazardous Location. Similar to the TC-ER, but in an environment that is considered extreme.
- Plenum rated, which refers to the flammability and smoke specifications of a cable.
Tray cable and instrumentation cable are very similar and are sometimes used interchangeably.
Contact Galaxy Wire & Cable for Tray Cable
Contact Galaxy for further assistance with tray cables.