What type of cable is used inside the cable tray and what is its price

The most common cables used in cable trays are Type TC (Tray Cable), TC-ER (Exposed Run), ITC (Instrumentation Tray Cable), and PLTC (Power Limited Tray Cable), with prices varying by type, conductor count, and insulation.Types of Cables

1. Type TC (Tray Cable)

• Designed for power, control, and lighting circuits in industrial and commercial environments.
• Rated for 600V, flame retardant, and UL listed.
• Can be installed in cable trays, raceways, and outdoor locations if supported.
• Standard TC cables are not allowed to run outside trays unless specifically rated as TC-ER.
• Commonly used in power and control circuits where durability and flame resistance are required . 2. Type TC-ER (Tray Cable – Exposed Run)
• Similar to TC but rated for short exposed runs (up to 6 feet) outside the tray.
• Includes crush- and impact-resistant jacketing.
• Ideal for connections from tray to equipment like motors without conduit . 3. Type ITC (Instrumentation Tray Cable)
• Used for low-voltage control, signal, and communication circuits (≤150V, ≤5A).
• Available in shielded or unshielded versions, sometimes with metal armor.
• Common in PLCs, DCS systems, transmitters, and other instrumentation . 4. Type PLTC (Power Limited Tray Cable)
• Rated for 300V, used in Class 2 and Class 3 circuits such as alarms, intercoms, and building automation.
• Can be routed in the same tray as 600V cables if separated by a divider.
• Often used in OEM and non-plenum applications .

Construction Features

• Multi-conductor with PVC, XLPE, CPE, PUR, or low-smoke zero-halogen jackets.
• Resistant to sunlight, moisture, chemicals, and mechanical stress.
• UL listed and tested for flammability, crush, and impact resistance .

Pricing

• Type TC (600V): Typically $1.50–$5 per foot, depending on conductor count and gauge.
• TC-ER: Slightly higher, around $2–$6 per foot, due to enhanced jacketing.
• ITC: Usually $2–$7 per foot, depending on shielding and conductor pairs.
• PLTC (300V): Around $1–$3 per foot, depending on size and insulation type. Prices vary by manufacturer, conductor count, insulation material, and purchase volume. Specialty cables like low-smoke zero-halogen or high-flex versions may cost more.

Summary

For cable tray installations, Type TC and TC-ER are the most common for power and control circuits, ITC for instrumentation, and PLTC for power-limited circuits. Selection depends on voltage, environmental conditions, and whether exposed runs are required. Pricing ranges from $1 to $7 per foot depending on type and specifications .