Wireways and Cable Troughs

Wireways and cable troughs are designed to protect electrical wires from dust, dirt, water and oil. There are three basic types of products: lay-in wireways, pull-through wireways, and cable troughs. Lay-in wireways are open on one side to allow the placement of wire without feeding through. Products are available in straight lengths of 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 48, 60, 72, and 120 inches (in). Pull-through (feed-through, sectional) wireways are also available. Nominal cross-sectional sizes include 2 in. x 2 in., 2.5 in. x 2.5 in., 3 in. x 3 in., 4 in. x 4 in., 6 in. x 6 in., 8 in. x 8 in., 10 in. x 10 in., 12 in. x 6 in., and 12 in. x 12 in. Other cross-sectional sizes are also available. Wiring troughs or cable troughs are completely enclosed and are often rated by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), a non-profit organization that recommends safety standards for electrical equipment. There are three basic cover styles for wireways and cable troughs: screw-on, snap-on, and hinged. Common materials of construction include steel, stainless steel, fiberglass, plastic and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). 

NEMA ratings indicate whether wireways and cable troughs are suitable for hazardous or non-hazardous locations and designed for indoor or outdoor use. All NEMA enclosures protect personnel against incidental contact with the enclosed equipment. Types 1, 2, 12, 12K and 13 NEMA enclosures are rated for indoor use in non-hazardous locations. Types 3, 3R, 3S, 4, 4X, 5, 6, and 6P enclosures are rated for both indoor and outdoor use in non-hazardous locations. NFPA 70, a publication of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), is the basis of several NEMA ratings for hazardous locations. Type 7 and Type 8 NEMA enclosures are designed for Class I; Division 1; Groups A, B, C or D hazardous locations. Type 7 enclosures are rated for indoor use. Type 8 enclosures are rated for outdoor use. Type 9 NEMA enclosures are designed for indoor use in hazardous locations classified as Class II; Division 1; Groups E, F, or G. Type 10 NEMA enclosures are designed to meet the requirements of the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). Type 11 NEMA enclosures are suitable for wireways and cable troughs that are immersed in oil.

Wireways and cable troughs are used in a variety of applications and industries. For example, some products are designed to support and manage cables in telecommunication closets, building entrances, and central offices. Other products include removable, replaceable, interchangeable rungs and field-modifiable fittings that can be adjusted in order to avoid obstructions. Wireways and cable troughs that are designed for high-voltage applications are also available.

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