Complete Buying Guide for cable tray

18-03-2026

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Need specific load charts or size comparisons? Download our full Cable Tray Specification PDF to view detailed technical data for all Matkel products.

A cable tray is a structural assembly, usually made of metal or plastic, used to support and organize electrical cables and conduits in industrial and commercial buildings.

The primary types are Ladder (for heavy power cables and ventilation), Trough (for dust protection and light loads), Wire Mesh (for flexibility and easy access), and Solid Bottom (for maximum protection).

Prices vary based on material (galvanized vs. stainless), size, and finish. Matkel offers competitive pricing for all sizes, with bulk discounts available for large projects in Riyadh and Dammam.

Standard widths range from 50mm to 2000mm, and depths from 25mm to 150mm. Common sizes include 100x50, 200x100, and 400x200mm. Always verify specific project requirements.

Matkel is a leading supplier in Riyadh, offering same-day delivery to major industrial zones and construction sites across the kingdom. Contact our sales team for immediate quotes.

Ladder trays are open and allow maximum airflow, suitable for heavy cables. Trough trays are fully enclosed, offering better protection against dust and physical damage but with less ventilation.

Installation must comply with Saudi Electrical and Mechanical (E&M) codes and IEC 61537 standards, including proper grounding, expansion gaps for heat, and secure mounting at specified intervals.

Assess the cable weight, calculate the total load, consider environmental factors (heat, dust), and verify fire ratings. Consult our experts for a custom sizing solution.

The Complete Buying Guide for Cable Tray: Engineering Safety in Saudi Arabia

Choosing the wrong support system for your cabling is not merely an aesthetic oversight; it is a critical structural failure waiting to occur. In 2026, Saudi Arabia's construction sector demands precision that transcends generic catalogs. This guide dissects the technical realities of selecting a cable tray that survives our harsh climate while passing rigorous municipal inspections.

Understanding the Core: What Defines a Cable Tray?

A cable tray is a structural assembly designed to support and organize cables in industrial and commercial settings, distinct from conduit which fully encloses the wire. Unlike conduit, cable trays expose cables to the environment, making material selection critical for resisting sandstorms and high humidity.

In Riyadh, the sun is relentless. A standard tray may warp or corrode if it lacks specific anti-corrosion standards. You are not buying simple metal; you are acquiring the backbone of your electrical distribution system. When you select a Matkel tray, you are choosing a component verified for high-temperature stability and superior mechanical load-bearing capacity.

The Saudi Market Reality: IEC 61537 and Local Codes

While international suppliers often ship generic stock, Saudi Arabia mandates adherence to strict local standards. The IEC 61537 standard serves as the global benchmark for cable tray systems, ensuring they safely carry intended loads without sagging or deforming.

However, local authorities for inspection and safety (often referencing SASO and specific E&M codes) require additional compliance. A tray passing IEC tests might still fail if it lacks the specific fire-retardant rating (LF/HF) required for Saudi commercial zones. Industry studies indicate that a significant portion of electrical incidents in KSA stem from improper cable management in older facilities. The solution lies in selecting trays with verified fire ratings and robust grounding points.

We provide a comprehensive buying guide for cable tray that prioritizes these regulatory nuances. We do not sell 'cheap' steel; we sell certified infrastructure.

Comparing the Three Main Types: Ladder vs. Trough vs. Wire Mesh

Selecting the wrong profile is the most common mistake we encounter. Each design serves a distinct function based on cable weight and accessibility needs. Here is how they perform in our Riyadh warehouses:

Ladder Cable Tray: Ideal for large bundles of heavy power cables. It offers maximum ventilation, keeping wires cool under the Saudi sun.
Trough Cable Tray: Fully enclosed. This is the choice for sensitive control cables or environments where dust and sand ingress must be strictly minimized.
Wire Mesh Tray: Excellent for flexibility and retrofitting. It allows for easy cable installation and removal without removing covers, making it perfect for existing buildings.

The decision matrix is clear: Need ventilation and heavy load capacity? Pick Ladder. Require dust protection and light load support? Pick Trough or Mesh. Always verify the load-bearing chart before cutting.

Technical Specifications: Dimensions and Load Capacities

Avoid the generic 'standard size' trap. A 1000mm wide tray holds vastly different loads depending on its depth and material thickness.

Matkel stock includes a comprehensive Cable Tray sizes list, ranging from 50mm x 25mm up to 2000mm x 1000mm. When calculating for your project, you must factor in the weight per meter of the cables. A full tray of 1000mm² power cables is significantly heavier than a tray of communication wires. Underestimating the load leads to sagging, which damages insulation and creates safety hazards.

Our technical team uses precise data to recommend the correct gauge. We analyze the total weight of the cable bundle and compare it against the rated load of the tray at that specific span distance. Never guess the span; calculate it.

Installation Standards and Material Durability

Installation in KSA requires more than just bolting. Extreme heat causes thermal expansion. If you do not leave the correct expansion gaps during installation, the metal will buckle during summer months. We adhere to strict installation protocols that account for 45°C+ daily temperature fluctuations.

Material selection is non-negotiable. While galvanized steel is standard, salt air in coastal areas like Jeddah accelerates corrosion. Here, we recommend hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel options designed to resist chloride attack common in the Red Sea region. A poorly chosen material will rust within two years, leading to costly replacements.

Furthermore, proper grounding is essential. Every tray joint and support point must be grounded to prevent static buildup and ensure safety during faults. We include grounding kits with every order to ensure compliance with Saudi electrical safety regulations.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Economy vs. Premium

It is tempting to cut corners on the support system. However, the cost of replacement is exponential compared to the initial purchase. A cheap tray might save you 20% upfront but cost 200% in maintenance and downtime.

Our 'Premium' line includes trays with pre-drilled mounting holes, anti-slip surfaces for cables, and enhanced fire ratings. These features reduce installation time by up to 30%. When you factor in labor costs, the premium option often proves cheaper in the long run. Think of it as an investment in project readiness and long-term reliability.

Download Our Technical Catalogue