Bridge (cable tray) is a structured wiring system used to support, protect and manage cables (power cables, communication cables, etc.), and is mainly composed of the following components:
1. Main Components
(1) Tray (Trough)
Role: The main structure for carrying cables.
Types:
ladder type bridge: the cross-file is ladder-like, good heat dissipation, suitable for large diameter cables.
Trough type bridge: fully enclosed structure, dustproof, anti-interference, suitable for precision wiring (such as data centres).
Tray type bridge: with holes at the bottom, between the ladder type and slot type, taking into account the heat dissipation and protection.
(2) Bracket (support structure)
Role: Fix the bridge to ensure its stability and load-bearing capacity.
Types:
Hanger: suspended from the ceiling or top plate (commonly used expansion bolts).
Bracket: mounted on the wall or column to support the horizontal bridge.
Column: vertical support (such as the ground uprights).
(3) Connector
Function: Splicing bridge segments to ensure continuity.
Common types:
Straight connecting piece: connects two horizontal bridge segments.
Elbow (horizontal/vertical): used for turning (such as 90° elbow, tee).
Reducing section: connects bridges of different widths.
(4) Cover plate (optional)
Function: to close the grooved bridge and protect the cable from dust, liquid or mechanical damage.
(5) Accessories
Grounding wire: Ensure the bridge system is electrically connected to prevent static electricity or lightning hazards.
Spacer: separates cables of different voltages or types (e.g. strong and weak power isolation).
Fixing bolts/clips: used to fasten brackets, cover plates, etc.
2. Common materials of bridge
Material Characteristics Applicable Scenarios
Galvanized steel (steel bridge) Rust-proof, low cost, strong load-bearing Industrial, architectural, outdoor
Stainless steel Corrosion-resistant, long service life, high price Chemical industry, humid environment (e.g., marine platforms)
Aluminum alloy Light weight, corrosion-resistant, good electrical conductivity Data centres, clean rooms
Fiberglass reinforced plastics (FRP) Insulation, acid and alkali resistance, light weight Chemical plants, strong electromagnetic interference environment
3. Applications of bridge Scenario
Power system: substation, distribution room cable laying.
Communication network: fibre optic/network cabling for data centre, 5G base station.
Industrial facilities: cable management for factory equipment.
Rail transport: cable support for underground and high-speed railway. What can copper be made into
Copper
Copper Products
Copper Metal
Copper is widely used in many fields due to its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, ductility and corrosion resistance. Here are some common copper products and their uses:
1. Electrical and Electronic Industry
Wire and cable: copper is the material of choice for power transmission, used in household circuits, high voltage cables, etc.
Circuit Boards (PCBs): Copper-clad boards are used for circuit connections in electronic devices.
Motors and transformers: copper coils are used to improve energy efficiency.
Electronic components: e.g. connectors, relays, semiconductor leadframes, etc.
2. Building & Home
Plumbing, HVAC systems: Copper pipes are corrosion-resistant and anti-bacterial and are used in drinking water and heating systems.
Roofing and decoration: Copper tiles and trims are used in high-grade buildings and oxidised to form a green patina (copper alkaline carbonate), which has a unique aesthetic appeal.
Door handles and lamps: aesthetics and antibacterial properties.
3. Industry and machinery
Heat exchangers: used in air conditioners, refrigerators, car radiators, etc.
Bearings and gears: Copper alloys (e.g. bronze) are wear-resistant and used for mechanical parts.
Chemical equipment: corrosion-resistant, used in reactors, distillation towers, etc.
4. Transportation
Automotive wiring harness: copper wires are used in vehicle circuit systems.
Brake pads, bearings: copper alloy to improve wear resistance.
Ship parts: seawater corrosion resistance, such as propellers, condensers, etc.
5. Currency and Art
Coins: widely used throughout history (e.g. ancient Chinese copper coins), some modern coins still contain copper.
Sculpture, handicrafts: such as bronze, bronze statues, jewellery, etc.
Musical instruments: brass instruments (trumpets, saxophones) and percussion instruments (cymbals).
6. High technology and new energy
Superconducting materials: certain copper oxides are superconducting at low temperatures.
Solar cells: copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) thin film cells.
Battery electrodes: e.g. copper foil collectors for lithium-ion batteries.
7. Medical & Antimicrobial
Antimicrobial surfaces: hospital door handles, instrument coatings (copper ions sterilise).
Medical instruments: e.g. surgical tools, dental materials.
Common Applications of Copper Alloys
Copper often forms alloys with other metals to extend its use:
Brass (copper + zinc): faucets, musical instruments, decorative items.
Bronze (copper + tin): sculptures, bearings, ship parts.
White bronze (copper + nickel): coins, precision instruments.