Coal conveyor bridge and cable tray are two kinds of bridge systems with totally different uses, the main difference lies in the use, structural design, material selection and other aspects. The following is their detailed comparison:

1. Different uses

Type of use

Coal conveyor bridge Used in coal conveyor system, connecting coal silo, boiler and other equipment, carrying coal and transported to the designated location. 

Cable tray is used for electric power, communication and other cable laying, supporting and protecting cables to ensure safe transmission of power or signal. 

2. Structural design differences

Comparison items coal conveyor bridge cable tray

Carrying capacity Need to bear the weight of coal (high load) Mainly carrying cables (lighter load) 

Structural form Usually trough type or closed type to prevent coal dust from spilling Open type (step, tray type) or closed type 

Dust/waterproof Sealed design required to reduce coal dust leakage Some waterproofing and corrosion protection required (e.g. outdoor bridges) 

Inclined angle design Possible inclined angle to facilitate coal conveying Generally horizontal or vertical laying 

3. Different material choices

Material Coal conveying bridge Cable bridge

Metal material Usually wear-resistant steel plate (Q235, Q345) Galvanised steel plate, aluminium alloy, stainless steel (anti-corrosion) 

Non-metallic materials Less commonly used FRP (Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic) may be used (corrosion resistance, insulation). 

Surface treatment Wear-resistant coating may be required Galvanised, sprayed, anodised (corrosion-resistant, aesthetically pleasing) 

4. Installation and maintenance

Comparison item Coal conveyor bridge Cable bridge

Installation Mode Required with conveyors, vibrating equipment, etc. Usually fixed to the building structure (wall, ceiling) 

Maintenance Requirements Regular cleaning of cinders, checking for wear and tear Mainly checking condition of cables, corrosion protection of bridges 

Common problems Wear and tear, coal blockage, structural deformation, corrosion, overheating of cables, loose bridges. 

5. Application Scenarios

Coal conveyor bridge:

Coal conveying system in thermal power plants, coal mines, chemical plants and so on.

Usually used with belt conveyor and bucket elevator.

Cable bridge:

Building electrical engineering (shopping malls, office buildings, houses).

Industrial plant (power, communication, automation control system).

Data centres, underground tunnels and other cable-intensive places.

Summary

Core Difference Coal Conveyor Cable Bridge

Main Functions Conveying coal Supporting and protecting cables 

Structural features High load, sealing and dustproofing Lightweight, anti-corrosion, modular design 

Applicable industries Energy, mining Construction, power, communication, data centre