Yes, fire cable trays can be used to run cables, provided they are properly installed and fire-stopped to prevent fire spread.

Purpose and Use

Cable trays are designed to support, route, and protect electrical cables in buildings and industrial facilities, offering an organized and accessible pathway for power, control, and instrumentation wiring . They are particularly useful for running multiple cables over long distances while maintaining separation between power and signal lines to reduce interference .

Types of Cables

The most commonly used cables in cable trays include:

• Type TC (Tray Cable): Power and control cables rated for 600 volts, suitable for industrial and outdoor applications when supported .
• Type ITC (Instrumentation Tray Cable): Shielded or unshielded cables for instrumentation and control, often used in sensitive or hazardous environments . Cables must be UL listed and rated for flame resistance, mechanical strength, and environmental conditions such as moisture or corrosive atmospheres .

Fire Safety Considerations

While cable trays are effective for cable management, they can act as conduits for fire and smoke if not properly protected . To mitigate this risk:

• Fire-stopping materials such as intumescent sealants, fire-rated boards, or mineral wool should be installed where trays penetrate walls, floors, or ceilings .
• Fire-resistant enclosures or collars can be used to block gaps and prevent flames from spreading through the tray openings .
• Proper fire-stopping ensures that fires remain contained within designated zones, giving occupants more time to evacuate and reducing structural damage .

Installation Guidelines

• Cable trays should follow the shortest and straightest path possible, avoiding unnecessary bends or overlaps with other systems .
• They must be level, plumb, and securely mounted, with horizontal deviation ≤2mm per meter and vertical deviation ≤3mm per meter .
• Tray width and material should be selected based on the number, weight, and type of cables, with options including painted steel, galvanized steel, aluminum, or fiberglass-reinforced plastic depending on environmental conditions .

Summary

Fire cable trays are suitable for running electrical and instrumentation cables when installed according to technical standards and equipped with appropriate fire-stopping measures. This ensures both efficient cable management and enhanced fire safety, preventing the tray from becoming a pathway for fire and smoke.