How to cut mesh cable trays

Mesh cable trays can be safely and efficiently cut using bolt cutters, an angle grinder, or a hacksaw, with proper planning and safety precautions.

Tools Needed

Bolt cutters: Ideal for quick, clean cuts on thinner mesh wires. Angle grinder: Best for thicker or heavily coated trays, providing precision and speed. Hacksaw: Can be used if other tools are unavailable, but slower and more labor-intensive.

Safety gear: Always wear safety goggles and gloves to protect against metal shards and sharp edges ( ).

Cutting Technique

Plan your cut: Measure and mark the tray where the cut is needed, considering bends or corner transitions ( ). Secure the tray: Clamp the tray to a stable surface to prevent movement during cutting. Cut along the marked line: Use your chosen tool to make a clean, straight cut.

For bolt cutters, cut each wire individually if necessary. For an angle grinder, move steadily along the line to avoid jagged edges. Smooth edges: After cutting, file or deburr sharp edges to prevent injury and protect cables ( ).

Modifying for Corners and Bends

Side cuts: Strategic cuts along the tray sides allow smooth 90° or 45° bends around corners or obstacles ( ). Maintain bend radius: Ensure bends are gentle enough to avoid damaging Ethernet or fiber cables. Check grounding: After modification, verify that grounding and bonding are intact to maintain electrical safety ( ).

Tips for Best Results

Avoid overfilling trays at corners to prevent cable stress. Use 10-foot mesh trays when possible to reduce the number of cuts and simplify installation ( ). Plan modifications in advance to minimize on-site adjustments and maintain a professional appearance ( ).

By following these steps and using the appropriate tools, you can cut and modify mesh cable trays safely and efficiently, ensuring a clean installation that accommodates corners, obstacles, and custom layouts.