Cable tray vs cable ladder: which one do you need?
Perforated cable tray and cable ladder both carry cables, but each has its place. Here is the difference in load, span, ventilation and cost.
Engineers and contractors often ask: should I use cable tray or cable ladder? Both carry cables, but the designs differ and each suits particular cables and routes.
Perforated cable tray
A continuous perforated steel base with two sides.
- Carries: light and medium power, control and data cables.
- Pros: the continuous base supports small cables well and takes a full cover.
- Span: suits normal support spacing, typically 1.5–2 m depending on size and thickness.
Cable ladder
Two heavy side rails joined by rungs at fixed spacing, like a ladder.
- Carries: large, heavy power cables tied to the rungs.
- Pros: higher load, longer spans between supports, and excellent ventilation because it is open.
- Best for: large plants, substations, oil & gas projects and long outdoor routes.
Quick comparison
| Perforated tray | Cable ladder | |
|---|---|---|
| Cables | light/medium, data, control | heavy power |
| Load | medium | high |
| Support span | shorter | longer |
| Ventilation | good | excellent |
| Cover | easy | possible, less common |
| Price per metre | lower in small sizes | higher, but saves on supports |
Using both together
On many projects we supply ladder for the main run of heavy cables and perforated tray for branches to panels and equipment. That saves cost without compromising safety.
Finishes
We make both in pre-galvanized, hot-dip galvanized, powder coated or stainless steel. For outdoor and humid locations we recommend hot-dip galvanizing.
See our cable ladder and cable tray, or send us your drawings and we will suggest the best fit.