How to drill angled holes in cable tray supports

Drilling angled holes in cable trays requires careful marking, the right drill bits, and the use of jigs or guides to ensure precision and safety.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Mark the Angle and Position

• Use a protractor or angle template to determine the exact angle needed, e.g., 22° or 30° .
• Measure and mark the drilling points on the cable tray carefully to ensure alignment. 2. Choose the Right Drill Bit
• For metal cable trays, use high-speed steel (HSS) or cobalt drill bits suitable for the tray thickness .
• Ensure the drill bit size matches the hardware or cable clearance requirements. 3. Secure the Tray
• Clamp the tray firmly using a C-clamp or a specialized vise to prevent movement during drilling .
• For angled drilling, a drill press with an adjustable tilt table or a pocket hole jig can help maintain the correct angle . 4. Use a Drill Guide or Jig
• A drill guide jig designed for 30°, 45°, or 90° angles ensures consistent and accurate holes .
• Some jigs include hardened steel sleeves to prevent bit wandering and maintain hole precision. 5. Drill Slowly and Steadily
• Start with a pilot hole if necessary to reduce walking.
• Apply steady pressure and avoid forcing the drill, which can damage the tray or bit .
• For thicker or tougher trays, consider undersized holes first, then finish with the correct bit at the desired angle. 6. Deburr and Finish
• After drilling, remove any burrs or sharp edges using a file or deburring tool to prevent cable damage and ensure safety .

Tips for Best Results

• Test on scrap material before drilling the actual tray to verify angle and fit.
• Use PPE: gloves, eye protection, and hearing protection are recommended when drilling metal trays .
• Consider specialized equipment like a tube laser or annular cutter for high-volume or precise angled holes . By following these steps and using the appropriate tools, you can achieve accurate, clean, and safe angled holes in cable trays for professional installations.