Calculate tray capacity for mixed cable runs. Test spare space, loading limits, and routing scenarios. Make smarter construction decisions with visual fill trends included.
Use the fields below to model a tray, add up to six cable groups, and test available fill against your working project limit.
This version models each cable as a circle, sums the group areas, adds a design margin, then compares that occupied area with tray usable area.
Area per cable = π × (OD ÷ 2)²
Group cable area = Quantity × Area per cable
Adjusted occupied area = Group cable area × (1 + Design margin %)
Usable tray area = (Tray width × Usable width factor) × (Tray depth × Usable depth factor)
Fill percentage = Adjusted occupied area ÷ Usable tray area × 100
Allowed area = Usable tray area × Allowable fill %
Remaining to target limit = Allowed area − Adjusted occupied area
This is a planning aid. Final design checks should follow the governing project specification, equipment data, and applicable electrical code.
| Tray Width | Tray Depth | Allowable Fill | Design Margin | Cable Mix | Estimated Fill |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300 mm | 100 mm | 40% | 10% | 4×28 mm, 8×16 mm, 12×9 mm | About 16.9% |
| 18 in | 4 in | 45% | 12% | 3×1.25 in, 5×0.80 in, 10×0.45 in | About 24.7% |
| 450 mm | 75 mm | 35% | 8% | 6×22 mm, 18×12 mm, 24×8 mm | About 21.0% |
It shows how much usable tray cross-sectional area is occupied by the cable bundle. Higher values mean less spare room for heat dissipation, future additions, and easier installation access.
Outside diameter is commonly available from cable data sheets and lets the tool estimate circular cable area quickly. It also reflects insulation and jacket thickness, not only conductor size.
The design margin adds a planning buffer above the raw cable area. Teams use it to cover installation tolerance, routing irregularities, future uncertainty, or conservative internal design standards.
Actual tray hardware, side rails, divider plates, mounting tolerances, or clearance policies can reduce effective space. These factors help you model the space you can truly use.
No. It is a fast planning calculator. Final acceptance should always be checked against project documents, manufacturer guidance, and the electrical rules that govern the installation location.
Yes, the calculator lets you enter multiple cable groups. Still, physical separation, shielding, fire performance, and interference requirements must be evaluated separately during design review.
It means the adjusted cable area is greater than the allowed area at your selected fill target. In practice, you may need a larger tray or a lower cable count.
Yes. The output includes minimum tray width at the current depth and minimum tray depth at the current width. That gives a fast first-pass sizing reference.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.