Perforated Cable Tray: Sizes, Thickness & Specifications

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A perforated cable tray is a steel channel with slots at the base and folded sides. It supports and routes power, control, and data cables in factories and buildings. Aparna Rollform offers widths of 50 to 1,500 mm, heights of 25 to 120 mm, thicknesses of 1.6 to 3.0 mm and lengths of 2,500 to 6,000 mm. Finishes and materials include pre-galvanised, hot-dip galvanised, powder-coated, aluminium, and stainless steel (SS 304 and SS 316).

This article explains perforated cable tray designs, sizes and specifications, finishes, covers, fittings, installation considerations and applications.

What Is a Perforated Cable Tray?

A perforated cable tray is a long steel channel with slots in its base. These slots help with ventilation and drainage and provide points to secure cables. The folded side edges form the tray’s side rails.

Why the base is perforated?

Heat: The slots allow air to circulate around the cables, helping them stay cool.
Weight: Perforations reduce the amount of material used in the tray base and may reduce the overall tray weight.
Drainage: The slots allow water to drain out, reducing water collection in the tray.
Inspection: The slots make it easier to see the cables from below.
Fixing: Cable ties can pass through the slots to secure the cables without drilling extra holes.

Perforation pattern and open area

The standard slot size is 20 x 10 mm. The open area (the percentage of the tray base removed by the slots) determines the airflow for cable cooling and impacts the overall weight of the tray. Note: Specific slot spacing parameters and open area calculations vary by tray width and are subject to final technical confirmation.

Where Perforated Cable Trays Are the Right Choice?

Perforated cable trays are suitable for control, instrumentation and medium-power cables that need support along the base. They allow air to circulate around the cables and provide slots for securing them with cable ties.

Perforated Cable Tray Sizes and Specifications

Perforated cable trays are made in widths from 50 to 1500 mm, heights from 25 to 120 mm and thickness from 1.6 to 3.0 mm. Standard lengths are 2500, 3000 and 6000 mm. Collar height is 15 to 45 mm.

Parameter	Stated specification
Tray width (W)	50–1,500 mm
Tray height (H)	25–120 mm
Tray collar (C)	15–45 mm
Tray length (L)	2,500–6,000 mm
Thickness (T)	1.6–3.0 mm
Perforation details	Slot size: 20 × 10 mm
Types of raw material	Mild steel (MS): IS 1079:2017 / IS 10748:2004 / IS 2062:2011; Stainless steel (SS): Grades 304 and 316L; Aluminium: IS 1100
Finish	1. Hot-dip galvanised (HDG): IS 2629:2001, IS 2633:1986, IS 4759:1996; 2. Galvanised sheet (GI): IS 277:2003, 80–120 GSM; 3. Powder-coated (as per customer requirement); 4. Aluminium; 5. Stainless steel (SS): Grades 202, 304 and 316L

Sheet thickness and material

Perforated cable trays may be manufactured using different metals and protective finishes, depending on the specified product configuration. Sheet thickness, material grade and coating requirements should be confirmed against the manufacturer’s technical documentation and project requirements.

Material and coating standards should be specified separately, according to the material and manufacturing process used.

Collar height

The collar is the folded lip at the top of each side rail. It makes the rail stiffer, stops it from bending sideways and keeps cables inside the tray. It also gives a seat for the cover. On this range the collar height is 15 to 45 mm.

Dimensional tolerances

Continuous roll forming helps maintain a consistent tray profile along its length. Actual tolerances for width, height, length, thickness and straightness should be confirmed against the manufacturer’s documented product specifications.

Duty classification

Selection factor	What to consider
Tray width	Select based on cable quantity and layout requirements.
Tray height	Consider cable arrangement and available space.
Sheet thickness	Confirm suitability for the intended application and loading requirements.
Cable load	Consider the total expected cable load when selecting the tray.
Support spacing	Determine based on verified product data and project requirements.
Material and finish	Select according to the installation environment and project specifications.

Note: Final tray selection depends on project requirements and verified technical specifications. This table covers selection factors; it does not define Light, Medium or Heavy duty classifications.

Custom sizes and made-to-order

Custom dimensions may be considered depending on manufacturing feasibility, material availability, order quantity and project requirements. Share the required width, height, thickness, finish and quantity with Aparna Rollform for confirmation.

Perforated Cable Tray Weight

The weight of a perforated cable tray depends on its width, side height, material thickness, material type, perforation pattern and finish.

Weight per Running Metre

For accurate weight information for a specific tray configuration, please contact Aparna Rollform with your required tray specifications.

How to Calculate Perforated Cable Tray Weight and Load Data

For a preliminary estimate of steel weight before perforation, use the following formula:

Approximate steel weight (kg/m) = Developed width (mm) × Sheet thickness (mm) × 0.00785

For example, a tray with a developed width of 430 mm and a sheet thickness of 2 mm has an estimated steel weight of 6.75 kg/m before perforation

Developed width refers to the total flat sheet width required to form the tray profile, including the base and formed sides and lips, as applicable.

Note: This is a theoretical estimate, not the finished cable tray weight. The actual weight varies with the tray profile, perforations, material and coating. Use manufacturer-confirmed weights for handling and load calculations.

Safe working load and support span

The load capacity and support spacing of a perforated cable tray depend on its dimensions, material, thickness, cable load and installation conditions. These factors should be considered when selecting a tray and planning its supports.

IEC 61537 covers requirements and test methods for cable tray systems. Specific load capacity and support-span information should be confirmed against the applicable product documentation and project requirements.

For project-specific guidance, please contact Aparna Rollform.

Cable fill and derating

The ventilation available in a perforated tray depends on cable arrangement and installation conditions. A cover can reduce ventilation and affect cable operating temperatures. Cable fill and current-carrying capacity should be assessed by the project’s electrical engineer using the applicable electrical requirements and cable specifications.

Finishes, Materials and Corrosion Protection

Perforated cable trays are available in different materials and protective finishes, depending on product specifications. Common options include pre-galvanised steel, hot-dip galvanised steel and powder-coated steel. Stainless steel and aluminium may also be available. Selection should consider the installation environment, moisture, chemical exposure, maintenance requirements and project specifications. Confirm the available material and finish combinations with Aparna Rollform.

Pre-galvanised (GI)

Pre-galvanised steel uses zinc-coated sheet material. The tray is formed and perforated from the coated sheet, so cut edges and openings may expose the underlying steel. Suitability depends on the coating specification, installation environment and project requirements.

Hot-dip galvanised (HDG)

Hot-dip galvanising involves applying a zinc coating to steel through a galvanising process. For trays galvanised after fabrication, the coating can cover accessible surfaces, including cut edges and openings, subject to the manufacturing process. Coating requirements and suitability should be confirmed against the applicable product specification and site conditions.

Powder-coated Steel, Stainless Steel and Aluminium

Powder-coated steel may be considered where a particular colour or surface finish is required. Stainless steel and aluminium are alternative materials for applications with specific environmental or project requirements. Their suitability depends on site conditions, material specifications and the intended application. Confirm availability and suitability with Aparna Rollform before selection.

Pre-galvanised vs hot-dip galvanised: when the zinc goes on

For a perforated tray, the stage at which zinc is applied affects the protection available at cut and punched edges.

Point	Pre-galvanised	Hot-dip galvanised
Zinc applied	Before forming and punching	After forming and punching
Cut and slot edges	May expose bare steel	Coated as part of the finished tray, subject to processing
Coating measurement	GSM	Usually microns
Cost	Depends on specifications and order requirements	Depends on specifications and order requirements
Typical application	Indoor and sheltered areas	Outdoor and industrial environments, depending on exposure
Service life	Depends on coating and environment	Depends on coating thickness and environment

Other materials and surface treatments

Powder-coated steel: A coated steel option available in specified colours and finishes.
Stainless steel: A corrosion-resistant material option for applications where the environment and grade require it.
Aluminium: A lightweight material option for applications where its properties suit the site conditions.

Powder coating and epoxy

Powder coating is a surface treatment that can be applied to suitable metal substrates, including steel and aluminium, depending on the product and coating process. Powder coating may be specified where a particular colour or surface finish is required. The available colours, coating properties and suitability depend on the product specification and intended application.

Powder coating and other non-conductive coatings can affect electrical continuity across tray joints. Earthing and bonding arrangements should follow the applicable electrical installation requirements and the manufacturer’s instructions.

Stainless steel SS 304 and SS 316

Stainless steel grade selection depends on the installation environment, including exposure to moisture, chlorides and chemicals. Confirm the appropriate grade against actual site conditions and project requirements.

Aluminium

Aluminium is a lightweight alternative to steel. Its suitability depends on the tray configuration, material grade, loading requirements and installation environment. Confirm the applicable alloy and product specifications before selection.

Choosing a finish by environment

Environment	Recommended material or coating
Indoor, dry	Pre-galvanised steel
Indoor, humid	Hot-dip galvanised steel
Covered outdoor	Hot-dip galvanised steel
Exposed outdoor	Hot-dip galvanised steel, subject to exposure conditions
Coastal	SS 316 or aluminium, depending on site conditions
Chemical area	SS 316, subject to chemical compatibility
Cleanroom	Powder-coated metal or stainless steel, as specified for the application

Note: These are general guidelines, not universal recommendations. Confirm the material grade and coating suitability against the actual site environment and project specifications.

Perforated Cable Tray with Cover

A cover may be specified where additional protection against falling debris, environmental exposure, accidental damage or other site hazards is required. The choice depends on the installation environment, cable requirements and project specifications.

A cover can reduce ventilation around cables. Cable operating temperatures and current-carrying capacity should therefore be assessed by the project’s electrical engineer where relevant.

When a cover is required?

Use a cover in these cases: falling debris from overhead work, direct sun (it adds UV and heat load on cables), water entry outdoors, walkways where cables can get damaged, rodent access, or when the project specification requires it. A cover reduces the ventilation, which is the main reason for choosing a perforated tray. A covered tray on a hot, heavily loaded run may need derating.

Cover types and fixing

Covers are plain, dome (peaked, so water and dust slide off) or perforated. They are fixed by clip-on, screw or turn-button. See our cable tray covers page for the full range.

Bends, Fittings and Accessories

Cable tray fittings help change the direction, level or width of a cable route. Available fitting types, dimensions, bend radii, thicknesses and finishes depend on the product range and order specifications. Confirm the required configuration with Aparna Rollform before ordering.

Bend and fitting types

Fitting	Angles	Radius (mm)	Thickness (mm)	Finishes
Horizontal bend	45, 90	300 to 1000	1.6 to 3.0	PG, HDG, powder-coated, SS, aluminium
Vertical inside bend	45, 90	300 to 1000	1.6 to 3.0	PG, HDG, powder-coated, SS, aluminium
Vertical outside bend	45, 90	300 to 1000	1.6 to 3.0	PG, HDG, powder-coated, SS, aluminium
Equal tee	90	–	1.6 to 3.0	PG, HDG, powder-coated, SS, aluminium
Unequal tee	90	–	1.6 to 3.0	PG, HDG, powder-coated, SS, aluminium
Cross	90	–	1.6 to 3.0	PG, HDG, powder-coated, SS, aluminium
Reducer (left, right, concentric)	–	–	1.6 to 3.0	PG, HDG, powder-coated, SS, aluminium

Couplers, splice plates and support accessories

Coupler plate (fish plate): joins two straight lengths.
L-type side coupler: joins trays at an angle or of different sections.
Hold-down clamp: fixes the tray to its support.
Threaded rod: hangs the tray from the ceiling or structure.
C and Z channel: used to make trapeze and frame supports.
Cantilever bracket: holds the tray from a wall or column.

Installation and Support

Cable trays can be installed using different support arrangements, depending on the building structure, tray configuration, cable load and project requirements. The appropriate support method and spacing should be determined for the specific installation.

Support methods

Trapeze hanger: two rods with a cross member. Most common for overhead runs.
Cantilever bracket: for walls and columns, where only one side is open.
Centre rod support: A support arrangement that should be considered only where the tray design, loading and manufacturer’s recommendations permit it.
C-hanger: quick overhead hanging for narrow trays.
Wall bracket: for fixed runs along walls and shafts.
Floor stand: for plant floors and rooftops.

Recommended support spacing

The distance between supports depends on the tray dimensions, material thickness, cable load and installation conditions. Support spacing should be determined based on the applicable product specifications and project requirements.

For project-specific support-span and load details, please contact Aparna Rollform.

For more information, read our blog on cable tray support systems and accessories.

Joints, expansion and thermal movement

Outdoor cable tray systems can expand and contract as temperatures change. Where required, expansion joints and suitable supports should be provided according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and project requirements.

Earthing and electrical continuity

Electrical continuity across cable tray joints depends on the tray material, joint design and surface coating. Earthing and bonding arrangements should follow the applicable electrical installation requirements and the manufacturer’s instructions.

Site receiving checklist

Check the following points when the cable tray material arrives at the site:

Surface condition: Check for coating damage, bare areas and signs of corrosion.
Welds and joints: Check for visible defects or incomplete welds, where applicable.
Straightness: Check for bending or deformation along the tray.
Slot edges: Check for sharp burrs or damaged edges.
Identification: Check that product or batch markings are present, where specified.
Dimensions: Verify that the width, height and thickness match the order.
Documents: Check that the agreed quality documents and test certificates have been supplied.
Packaging: Check for damaged packaging and signs of transit damage.

Perforated vs Other Cable Tray Types

Perforated, ladder and solid-bottom cable trays have different base designs and ventilation characteristics. The appropriate type depends on cable layout, support requirements, environmental conditions and project specifications.

Feature	Perforated Cable Tray	Ladder Cable Tray	Solid-Bottom Cable Tray
Base design	Slotted base	Rungs between side rails	Continuous base
Cable support	Supports cables along the base	Supports cables at the rungs	Supports cables along the base
Ventilation	Depends on perforation and cable arrangement	Generally open, allowing air circulation	Limited through the base
Cable protection	Depends on tray design and whether a cover is used	Depends on tray design and whether a cover is used	Continuous base provides a barrier beneath the cables
Selection factors	Cable layout, support and ventilation requirements	Cable load, span and support requirements	Cable protection, ventilation and installation requirements

Wire mesh cable trays are included for comparison only. Aparna Rollform does not manufacture wire mesh trays.

Perforated vs ladder type

Ladder tray has rungs between two side rails. It suits large power cables and long spans. Perforated tray suits mixed control and power cables, smaller cables, and runs where cables need support along the whole base. See our ladder type and angular ladder type cable tray pages.

Perforated vs solid bottom (non-perforated)

Solid-bottom tray has no openings in the base and may be considered where a continuous base is required. Its suitability depends on the required cable protection, ventilation, installation environment, and project specifications.

A perforated tray has openings in its base, while a solid-bottom tray has a continuous base. Weight, ventilation, and suitability depend on the tray configuration, material and installation conditions.

Perforated vs wire mesh or basket

Wire mesh trays have an open mesh construction, while perforated trays have a continuous base with openings. Their suitability depends on cable type, support requirements, installation conditions, and the specifications of the selected product.

Which tray should I specify?

Application consideration	Tray type to evaluate
Cable routing requiring support along the base	Perforated cable tray
Heavy cables or longer spans	Ladder cable tray, subject to load and support design
A continuous base is required	Solid-bottom cable tray, subject to project requirements

Do not recommend a solid-bottom tray specifically for corrosive splashes or spark-risk areas without a confirmed engineering basis.

Applications by Industry

Perforated cable trays are used in industrial and commercial installations where cables need continuous base support and accessible routing.

Power plants and substations: Routing power, control and instrumentation cables.
Data centres: Organising cables with suitable segregation according to project requirements.
Pharmaceutical facilities: Selecting suitable materials and finishes for the installation environment.
Oil, gas and chemical plants: Selecting materials and corrosion protection according to exposure conditions.
Metro rail, airports and infrastructure: Routing cables in infrastructure and building-services installations.
Commercial buildings and hospitals: Routing power, control and communication cables through suitable service areas.

Tray dimensions, thickness, material, finish, loading and support arrangements should be confirmed for the specific installation.

How Aparna Rollform Manufactures Perforated Cable Trays?

Aparna Rollform manufactures perforated cable trays using a roll-forming process. The process shapes the metal along the length of the tray profile. Product dimensions and manufacturing consistency depend on the tooling, material, and production specifications.

Ordering, Documentation and Delivery

Orders are quoted per running metre or per kg. Test documents go with every despatch. We supply across India and for export. Send the width, height, thickness, finish, quantity, and delivery location to get a quote.

How perforated cable tray is priced?

The price is quoted per running metre or per kg, depending on how the buyer prefers it. These points decide the price: developed width of the sheet (width plus height and collar), thickness, type and mass of coating, order quantity, and the current cost of steel and zinc.

For the same nominal tray dimensions, a thicker sheet generally uses more base material per metre. The final price also depends on the material, coating, order quantity and production requirements. Contact Aparna Rollform with the required specifications for a quotation.

Documents supplied with each dispatch

Galvanising or coating test certificate, dimensional inspection report, raw materials test certificates, as per the project specification.

Lead time, minimum order and packing

The lead time for our delivered products is 2 weeks to 45 days. However, if ordered for standard sizes, the lead time can be shorter. For more details regarding the lead time, contact Aparna Rollform. Other factors like sizes and minimum order basis can affect the cost.

Delivery and project supply

Aparna Rollform dispatches across India, executing pan-India dispatches from the main manufacturing facility. We also serve international markets.

Why Specifiers Choose Aparna Rollform?

Aparna Rollform’s quality systems are certified to ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018. Our trays are roll-formed from coil and finished in our own plant.

Aparna Rollform delivers exceptional structural integrity, rigorous quality compliance, and end-to-end production control.

For perforated cable tray requirements, share the required width, height, thickness, finish, quantity, delivery location, and project details with the Aparna Rollform team.

Frequently Asked Questions On Perforated Cable Tray

What is a perforated cable tray used for?

It holds and routes power, control, and data cables in factories and buildings. The slotted base allows air circulation around cables, depending on the installation, lets dust and water drain, and allows cable ties at any point. It is a good choice for mixed cables in plants, commercial buildings, and data centres.

What are the standard sizes of perforated cable tray?

Widths range from 50 to 1,500 mm, heights from 25 to 120 mm, and thicknesses from 1.6 to 3.0 mm. The stated length range is 2,500 to 6,000 mm. Confirm available size combinations and lengths with Aparna Rollform.

What thickness is used for perforated cable tray?

The suitable sheet thickness depends on the tray configuration, cable load, support spacing and project requirements. Confirm the specification for the intended installation.

What is the weight of a perforated cable tray per metre?

The finished weight depends on the tray dimensions, material thickness, perforation pattern, and coating. Contact Aparna Rollform for the confirmed weight per running metre of the required configuration.

At what distance should a perforated cable tray be supported?

The support distance for a perforated cable tray depends entirely on its width, material thickness, and the expected weight of the cables. There is no single fixed distance, as the layout must be engineered to prevent the tray from sagging under load.

What is the difference between perforated and ladder type cable tray?

Perforated tray has a slotted base that supports cables along the full length. Ladder tray has rungs between two rails and carries heavier cables over longer spans. Perforated suits mixed and smaller cables. Ladder suits heavy power runs.

Should I use pre-galvanised or hot-dip galvanised perforated cable tray?

Pre-galvanised steel is commonly considered for indoor and sheltered environments, while hot-dip galvanised steel is commonly considered for outdoor and industrial environments. Selection depends on the coating specification, product processing, and actual site conditions.

Does a perforated cable tray need a cover?

Only when cables face falling debris, direct sun, water, damage from foot traffic or rats, or when the specification asks for it. A cover reduces ventilation, so a covered tray on a heavily loaded run may need derating.

What is the collar height of a perforated cable tray?

Collar dimensions depend on the product design and specified tray configuration. Confirm the required dimensions with Aparna Rollform.

Which standards apply to perforated cable trays in India?

IEC 61537 specifies requirements and test methods for cable tray and cable ladder systems. Separate standards may apply to the raw materials and protective coatings used in manufacturing. The applicable standards and editions depend on the product specification and project requirements. Confirm the relevant documentation with Aparna Rollform before specifying a tray.

Cable Trays Types

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Tray Width(W) (mm)	Tray Height (H) (mm)	Tray Collar (C) (mm)	Tray Length (L) (mm)	Thickness (T) (mm)	Perforation Details (mm)	Types of Raw Material	Finish
50 to 1500	25 to 120	15 to 45	2500 to 6000	1.6 to 3.0	Slot Size 20 x 10 width wise 10 gap length wise 20 c/c gap	Mild Steel (M.S) IS: 1079 - 2017/IS: 10748 - 2004/IS: 2062 - 2011 Stainless steel (S.S) Grade 304 & 316 Aluminium (AI) IS: 737	1. Hot Dip Galvanized (HDG) 2629:2001, IS 2633:1986, IS:4759:1996 2. Galvanized sheet (GI) IS 277:2003 80-120GSM, 3. Powder Coated (as per customer requirement) 4. Aluminium (AI) 5. Stainless Steel (S.S) Grade 304 & 316

Types of Bends	Thickness (T) (mm)	Degrees	Radius	Finish
1. Horizontal bend 2. Vertical Inside Bend 3. Vertical Outside Bend 4. Tee Bend (Equal tee & Unequal tee) 5. Cross Bend 6. Reducers (left & right)	1.6 to 2.5	45 Degrees & 90 Degrees	300 to 600	1. Hot Dip Galvanized (HDG) IS 2629:2001, IS 2633:1986, IS:4759:1996 2. Galvanized sheet (GI) IS 277:2003 80-120GSM, 3. Powder Coated (as per customer requirement) 4. Aluminium (AI) 5. Stainless Steel (S.S) Grade 304 & 316