Standards and Directives

The manufacture and use of cable tray is subject to strict and precise regulations.  Cablofil® gives an update on the applicable texts and guarantees conformance of its products.   Difference between a directive and  a standard   A directive defines the requirements related to the effects of the products on property and persons, but it does not explain in direct terms how to comply: this is the function of the standards.
The Standards The IEC standard 61537: " cable tray systems and cable ladder systems for electrical installations" defines the characteristics of the cable tray product.   This standard defines the configurations of the mechanical tests to be carried out on the cable tray, brackets, hangers and other accessories.  It also specifies the requirements and methodologies for electrical continuity tests that the cable trays and splices must meet.    All mechanical and electrical performance levels of the Cablofil® ranges are tested according to the methods described in this standard.     The CE marking   The standard IEC 61537 is the "product" standard defining the requirements and test methods for the cable tray and cable ladder systmes.  Being the only standard harmonised at European level, it is the reference when markin CE on the products, as requested in LVD.   All Cablofil® cable traysnand accessories now comply with the European standards.  The products are therefore marked with the CE logo.
The Directives The following directives apply directly to the cable tray:   The Low Voltage Directive 73/68/CEE known as "LVD" Directive 93/68/CEE known as "CE marking"   The low voltage directive (LVD) 73/23/CEE harmonises the legislation of member states and covers consumer and capital goods intended for use within the following voltage limits:   -         50 to 1000 Volts AC -         75 to 1500 Volts DC   Directive 93/68/CEE, known as the "CE MArking" Directive, modifies the Low Voltage Directive for issues concerning the conformance evalution and marking procedures.   Special case of the EMC directive 89/336/CEE   The EMC Directive 89/336/CEE applies exclusively to the active elements ( is carrying a current or to which a low current is applied).   Since, by definition, the cable tray is a passive element, this directive is therefore not applicable.   Correctly connected to the earth network, however, the metal cable trayn plays a positive role in the correct EMC of the installation.