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CSA C22.2 No. 62.1-15: Cable Tray Systems – Technical Requirements and Compliance Guide
An in-depth look at the Canadian standard for cable tray systems, covering scope, material specifications, load ratings, bonding, and installation compliance under the Canadian Electrical Code.
Scope and Application
CSA C22.2 No. 62.1-15, “Cable tray systems” is a mandatory safety standard under the Canadian Electrical Code (CE Code) Part II. It specifies construction, performance, testing, and marking requirements for cable tray systems intended for use in electrical installations in accordance with CSA C22.1 (the CE Code). The standard covers metallic and non-metallic cable tray systems and their associated fittings, including:
- Ladder-type cable trays
- Solid-bottom cable trays
- Perforated (trough) cable trays
- Channel-type cable trays
- Wire mesh cable troughs
- Fittings, covers, and accessories
It applies to trays used for supporting cables in industrial, commercial, and residential installations where ambient temperatures range from –20 °C to +80 °C, unless otherwise marked. The standard also addresses trays rated for wet locations and corrosive environments, making it essential for selecting appropriate systems for harsh industrial settings.
Technical Requirements
Material Specifications
Manufacturers must use materials that provide adequate strength, corrosion resistance, and long-term durability. The standard establishes minimum thicknesses based on the material and the width of the cable tray. For example, a steel cable tray with a nominal width up to 900 mm (36 in.) must have a minimum base thickness of 1.6 mm (0.063 in.) if formed from sheet steel, while wider trays require 2.0 mm (0.080 in.). Aluminum trays generally require greater thickness to achieve equivalent load capacity, as outlined in the standard’s design tables.
Load-Rating Classification
Each cable tray must be clearly marked with its load rating class (e.g., Class A, B, C, D) as defined by the standard. The classification corresponds to the maximum uniformly distributed working load (in N/m or lb/ft) that the tray can support at a design deflection not exceeding 1/100 of the span. The following table summarizes typical load classes for a 3.0 m (10 ft) support span:
| Load Class | Maximum Working Load (N/m) | Equivalent (lb/ft) | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | 730 | 50 | Light control cables |
| B | 1 460 | 100 | Power cables – small conductors |
| C | 2 190 | 150 | Mixed power and control cables |
| D | 2 920 | 200 | Large feeders – heavy industrial |
Load ratings are verified through standardized deflection tests. The tray must also withstand a concentrated load equal to 200 % of the rated working load without permanent deformation exceeding specified limits.
Bonding and Grounding
CSA C22.2 No. 62.1-15 mandates that cable tray systems function as an effective equipment grounding conductor when used in compliance with the CE Code. All metallic sections must be positively bonded using a bonding jumper sized in accordance with Table 16 of the CE Code, or through listed bonding connections provided by the tray manufacturer. The standard requires a maximum electrical resistance of 0.01 Ω between any two tray sections for effective fault current path continuity.
Corrosion Protection
For trays installed in wet, corrosive, or high-humidity environments, protective coating systems are specified. Hot-dip galvanizing after fabrication is preferred for steel trays. Pre-galvanized (zinc-coated) steel may be used where the environment is rated as “mild” only. Non-metallic trays must be UV-stabilized for outdoor use and meet flammability requirements such as a V-0 rating per CSA C22.2 No. 0.3.
Implementation Highlights
Tip: When selecting cable trays for outdoor or chemical-process areas, specify hot-dip galvanized steel (minimum 600 g/m² zinc coating) or stainless steel (316L grade). Verify that all fittings, splices, and covers are of the same corrosion protection class to avoid galvanic corrosion.
Mechanical Continuity and Supports
Proper installation requires that cable trays are supported on spans not exceeding the manufacturer’s recommendation based on load class. All connections (splices, tee, cross, and elbow fittings) must maintain the structural strength of the straight sections. The tray shall be mechanically continuous to support the cable weight and prevent displacement during fault conditions. For seismic areas, additional bracing is required as per applicable building codes.
Cable Fill and Derating
The standard itself does not dictate cable fill ratios; these are given by the CE Code (Rule 12-2202). However, CSA C22.2 No. 62.1-15 requires that the tray design allows for adequate ventilation and cable support under specified fill conditions if the tray is marked for “cables only” or “cables with covers”. Installers must respect the maximum fill percentages (typically 40–50 % of the cross-sectional area for power cables) to avoid excessive temperature rise.
Compliance Notes
WARNING: Use of field-cut or unlisted splices and fittings voids the certification of the cable tray system. Always use components listed under CSA C22.2 No. 62.1-15 to maintain compliance and ensure fault-current path integrity.
Cable tray systems bearing the CSA mark (or equivalent recognized certification body mark) demonstrate conformity to CSA C22.2 No. 62.1-15. Certification includes:
- Type testing of straight sections and fittings for strength, deflection, and bonding continuity.
- Marking of each section with load class, material, manufacturer identification, and year of manufacture.
- Periodic factory surveillance to ensure consistent product quality.
Good Practice: For projects requiring a high degree of reliability (data centers, hospitals, petrochemical plants), request a certificate of compliance from the manufacturer and keep records of the system’s load class and bonding test reports. This simplifies acceptance by the electrical inspection authority.
Critical: Never exceed the marked load rating. Overloading a cable tray can cause sudden collapse, resulting in arc faults, fire, or injury. If additional cables must be added later, verify that the existing tray load rating and support spacing are adequate; otherwise, a secondary support system must be installed.
Field Modifications
If modifications such as cutting, drilling, or welding are performed in the field, the installer must restore the corrosion protection and maintain structural integrity. Any change that affects bonding continuity must be re-verified. The authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) may require re-certification of the altered sections.
Maintenance and Inspection
Periodic inspection of cable tray systems is recommended to check for corrosion, loose splices, damaged cable insulation, and accumulation of debris. In wet or process-heavy environments, a three-year inspection cycle is typical. CSA C22.2 No. 62.1-15 does not itself prescribe maintenance intervals, but the CE Code and local building codes often mandate minimum inspection requirements.
Q: Can aluminum and galvanized steel tray sections be used together in the same system?
A: Yes, but only if they are isolated to prevent galvanic corrosion, or if both materials are rated for the intended environment. Where moisture is present, a dielectric barrier or stainless-steel splice plate designed for mixed-metal bonding should be used, and bonding continuity must be maintained per CE Code requirements.
A: Yes, but only if they are isolated to prevent galvanic corrosion, or if both materials are rated for the intended environment. Where moisture is present, a dielectric barrier or stainless-steel splice plate designed for mixed-metal bonding should be used, and bonding continuity must be maintained per CE Code requirements.
Q: What size bonding jumper is required between cable tray sections?
A: The minimum bonding jumper size is given by Table 16 of the Canadian Electrical Code, which is based on the ampacity rating of the largest circuit protected by an OCPD within the tray. For typical power distribution, a No. 6 AWG copper or equivalent is common, but always verify with the design engineer and local code.
A: The minimum bonding jumper size is given by Table 16 of the Canadian Electrical Code, which is based on the ampacity rating of the largest circuit protected by an OCPD within the tray. For typical power distribution, a No. 6 AWG copper or equivalent is common, but always verify with the design engineer and local code.
Q: Does CSA C22.2 No. 62.1-15 cover non-metallic cable trays?
A: Yes, the standard includes requirements for non-metallic (e.g., fiberglass, PVC, polycarbonate) cable trays. They must meet additional requirements for flammability (V-0 rating) and UV resistance (for outdoor use). Non-metallic trays are not suitable as an equipment grounding conductor; a separate bonding conductor or an integrated metallic bonding path must be provided.
A: Yes, the standard includes requirements for non-metallic (e.g., fiberglass, PVC, polycarbonate) cable trays. They must meet additional requirements for flammability (V-0 rating) and UV resistance (for outdoor use). Non-metallic trays are not suitable as an equipment grounding conductor; a separate bonding conductor or an integrated metallic bonding path must be provided.
Q: How can I verify that a cable tray product is compliant with CSA C22.2 No. 62.1-15?
A: Look for a CSA monogram, cCSAus mark, or another accredited mark from a recognized certification body (e.g., UL, Intertek, QAI). The certification mark should be accompanied by the standard number (C22.2 No. 62.1) and the load class. If in doubt, request a copy of the manufacturer’s certification letter or check the online listing of the certification body.
A: Look for a CSA monogram, cCSAus mark, or another accredited mark from a recognized certification body (e.g., UL, Intertek, QAI). The certification mark should be accompanied by the standard number (C22.2 No. 62.1) and the load class. If in doubt, request a copy of the manufacturer’s certification letter or check the online listing of the certification body.
This article provides general guidance based on the requirements of CSA C22.2 No. 62.1-15. For specific design and installation decisions, consult the latest edition of the Canadian Electrical Code, the standard itself, and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Article prepared in 2026. All rights reserved.