Installation of fire cable tray cover plates

Fire cable tray cover plates should be installed over the fire protection layer, ensuring tight overlaps, proper fastening, and no gaps exceeding 4 mm to maintain fire integrity.

Preparation and Pre-Assembly

Before installing the cable tray, pre-assemble the fire protection covers to increase productivity. The bottom outer cover should remain open during initial installation for adjustability and closed after the cable tray is secured. Ensure that starter brackets are covered with fire protection material before proceeding with the tray installation .

Installation Sequence

1. Install cable tray supports and starter brackets along the planned route, maintaining proper clearances from walls or surfaces (minimum 150 mm if routed along a surface), .
2. Lay the fire protection layer (e.g., FireMaster® blanket or wrap) around the tray. Ensure that the material is fully encapsulated and overlaps adjacent pieces by at least 75 mm to prevent gaps .
3. Secure the fire protection material using stainless steel banding straps. Straps should be at least 12.5 mm wide and 0.4 mm thick, tightened at overlaps and at intervals of approximately 262 mm along the tray span. Additional straps should be applied at elbows and 90-degree bends to maintain tight joints .
4. Install the outer cover plates over the fire protection layer. Ensure that no gaps exceed 4 mm between adjacent covers and that the covers are fastened securely to prevent displacement .
5. Cable installation can proceed after the fire protection layer and covers are in place. If cable cleats are used, install them before covering the tray to maintain proper cable support .

Special Considerations

• Avoid exposing fire protection material to UV radiation or harsh environmental conditions during installation .
• For instrument control cables, additional mesh lining may be used to prevent slumping of the wrap on open trays .
• Ensure proper overlap at joints and bends to maintain continuous fire protection coverage .
• Do not leave semi-installed covers in areas with heavy environmental exposure to reduce the risk of falling objects .

Compliance and Safety

• Follow NEC Article 392 and manufacturer guidelines for tray material, spacing, and cable segregation .
• Maintain proper clearances and fill limits to ensure both fire safety and electrical system reliability .
• Fire protection wraps like FireMaster® are rated for extended fire exposure and should be installed according to ASTM E 1529 or equivalent standards . By following these steps, fire cable tray cover plates will provide effective protection, maintain system integrity during fire events, and comply with safety standards.