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One of the largest trends affecting cable trays in today's marketplace is the rise of communication technology. With educational, commercial and data processing facilities heavily relying on high performance data/com cabling, manufacturers are responding to the demand by improving applications with increased flexibility and greater ease of installation. Several alternatives to the traditional cable tray have been put into production, allowing for the consumer to benefit from the variety of styles and pleasing aesthetics.

"Alternatives to the traditional cable tray have made installations easier, especially in retrofit applications. Utilizing traditional tray in conjunction with bendable tray, U-hooks and J-hooks have provided the installer with a variety of methods that accommodate a high-performance system," says Larry Fisher, worldwide sales manager, Erico. "The need for running several pathways to accommodate separation of cables of data, security, voice and A/V systems has prompted the need for color coding and more innovative trapeze and tree systems of trays, U-hooks and J-hooks."

While in the past these cable management systems were installed above drop ceilings, they are now popping up in overhead horizontal and vertical applications, as well as under the floor and along the wall. Also, they are available in several types of configurations: ladder, perforated, solid bottom, trough, channel, wire mesh and single rail. As cable trays adapt to industry needs, other accessories, support options and innovative alternatives are being launched in rapid succession to cut installation time.

"We have incorporated a number of new features and products, such as the wire basket tray to dramatically cut installation time," says Dana Black, vice president of sales, PW Industries. "New accessories that are a less-expensive alternative to traditional conduit include a growing assortment of mounting brackets, support kit assemblies, fire-stop sleeves, conduit attachment clamps and support systems for use under raised floors."

Black adds that pre-fabricated tray systems are also helping to reduce installation time. "These systems include already-cut-to-length straight sections, factory-installed dividers, covers, and labels; plus, piece-marked installation drawings that identify all components. Product is then packed and marked according to installation area, and shipped only when required," Black explains.

Cablofil, for instance, has made significant strides in ease of installation for the contractor. Just a few years prior, they launched the G-Tray, which requires no support, and can be attached directly to framing members or floor joists.

Recognizing the importance of color coding, especially within the data cabling industry, Cablofil has introduced an industry first UL classified powder coated tray this year that utilizes a proprietary bonding strip that maintains adequate continuity without the need to scrape paint.