Introduction
Cable trays are an important component in the electrical and network infrastructure of any building. They are used to support and protect electrical cables and wires. There are different types of cable trays available in the market, each designed to cater to different requirements of the installation.
One of the important factors that need to be considered while selecting a cable tray is its galvanization thickness. In this article, we will discuss what is galvanization thickness and its importance in cable trays.
What is Galvanization Thickness?
Galvanization is a process by which a layer of zinc is applied to the surface of a metal to protect it from corrosion. The thickness of this layer is called galvanization thickness.
The thickness of the galvanization layer is measured in microns. The thickness can vary from a few microns to several hundred microns, depending on the requirements of the application.
Importance of Galvanization Thickness in Cable Trays
Cable trays are installed in areas where there is a risk of corrosion. For example, cable trays installed outside the building are exposed to the vagaries of weather, which can cause rusting and corrosion.
Galvanization is used to protect the metal surface of the cable tray from corrosion. The thicker the layer of galvanization, the better the protection against corrosion.
Factors affecting the thickness of galvanization on cable trays
There are several factors that affect the thickness of the galvanization layer on a cable tray. Some of them are:
1. Environment: The environment in which the cable tray is installed has a significant impact on the thickness of the galvanization layer. For example, cable trays installed in coastal areas are exposed to salt spray and humidity which can accelerate the corrosion of the tray. Hence, a thicker layer of galvanization is required to protect the tray.
2. Load capacity: The load capacity of the cable tray also plays a role in determining the thickness of the galvanization layer. Higher load capacity requires thicker galvanization layers to ensure that the tray is protected from corrosion as well as the weight of the cables.
3. Cost: The thicker the galvanization layer, the higher the cost of the cable tray. Hence, the cost is also an important factor in determining the thickness of the galvanization layer.
4. Code requirements: Some building codes specify the minimum thickness of the galvanization layer that should be used in the installation of cable trays. Hence, compliance with code requirements also affects the thickness of the galvanization layer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the galvanization thickness on cable trays is an important factor to consider while selecting a cable tray. The thickness of the galvanization layer should be selected based on the environment in which the cable tray is installed, the load capacity of the tray, code requirements, and cost. A thicker layer of galvanization provides better protection against corrosion, prolonging the life of the cable tray.
