Cable trays are supplied in various surface finishes suitable based on the needs and requirements such as

1. Galvanised Iron Cable Tray (GI/GP)
2. Hot Dip Galvanising Cable Tray
3. Powder coated Cable Tray
4. SS Cable Tray
5. Painted Cable Tray

HOT DIP GALVANISING CABLE TRAYS : 

The hot dip galvanizing cable tray process is relatively simple. It involves cleaning steel and immersing it in molten zinc to obtain a coating. Hot dip galvanizing is the process of coating iron or steel with a layer of zinc by immersing the metal in a bath of molten zinc at a temperature of around 450 °C (842 °F).

HDG is done as per Standard IS 2629. (for more details link attached : https://law.resource.org/pub/in/bis/S10/is.2629.1985.pdf)

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Hot dip Galvanizing Cable Tray are

1. Long-term anti-corrosion: Hot-dip galvanizing cable tray layer in the atmospheric environment provides long-term anti-corrosion protection.
2. Strong bonding: Hot-dip galvanized layer cable tray is tightly bonded to the base metal and is not easy to come off.
3. Good anti-corrosion performance: As zinc is the second element after aluminium, with good corrosion resistance it is most suitable in the marine environment, industrial atmosphere, soil and corrosive media, the zinc layer can effectively protect products from corrosion.
4. Abrasion resistance and high-temperature strength: the galvanized layer of cable tray has high hardness and can resist the wear and tear of the steel surface. At the same time, it can still maintain high strength and hardness at high temperature.
5. Strong adhesion: The adhesion between the hot-dip galvanized layer and the steel substrate is strong, and can resist the phenomenon of flaking due to vibration.

 However, hot-dip galvanizing cable tray anti-corrosion method also has some disadvantages:

1. Specification limitation: Hot dip galvanizing cable tray is not suitable for smaller parts for example HDG is not easy to take on the nut.
2. Complicated process: hot-dip galvanizing cable tray treatment needs to go through a number of procedures, the production process is more complex.
3. Higher cost: Hot-dip galvanizing cable tray requires higher equipment and production process, resulting in a relatively high cost.

POWDER COATING CABLE TRAYS  :

Powder Coating Cable tray is a dry finishing process created by an electric charge that causes a dry powder to fuse to the surface of the metal and then baked in a curing oven to achieve a smooth coating. It is usually used to create a hard finish that is tougher than conventional paint.

Powder coating does not have a liquid carrier, meaning it can produce thicker coatings than conventional liquid coatings without running or sagging. It produces minimal appearance differences between horizontally coated surfaces and vertically coated surfaces.

Advantages of powder coating cable tray :

1. A wide range of finishes can be achieved using this process,
2. Provides a layer of protection against corrosion, scratches/chipping and fading,
3. Most economical, longest lasting, and most colour-durable quality finishes available on virtually any type of metal,
4. Achieves a consistent colour finish across the metal,
5. Powder coatings can produce much thicker coatings than conventional liquid coatings without running or sagging,
6. Non-toxic and less flammable than wet spray paint finishes.

The disadvantages are :

1. Powder coats can leave an ‘orange peel’ texture on the metal
2. Powders cannot be mixed to obtain different colours 

STAINLESS STEEL CABLE TRAYS : 

Cable trays made of Stainless steel has following advantages

1. Strength and Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel cable trays boast remarkable strength and resilience, easily supporting heavy cable loads without buckling or deformation and distortion. Their inborn corrosion resistance makes them ideal for harsh environments, were areas with high humidity, salt spray, or exposure to chemicals.
2. Longevity and Minimal Maintenance: Stainless steel requires minimal maintenance due to its inherent resistance to rust and corrosion and hence significant cost savings over the life cycle of the system.
3. Fire Resistance: Stainless steel offers superior fire resistance contributing to improved fire safety within your facility.
4. Aesthetics: The sleek, polished finish of stainless-steel cable trays adds a value of sophistication to any ambience. This appeal makes them best-suited for aesthetic and visual harmony is desired.
5. Environmental Considerations: Because of the recyclable nature, it contributes to a sustainable and environmentally conscious infrastructure development approach.

 The Only disadvantage is its high cost

PAINTED CABLE TRAYS : 

Painted cable tray is a Cost-Effective option for Controlled Environments

1. Affordable and cost effective: Painted steel cable trays offer a cost-effective solution to cable management, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious projects.
2. Flexibility: Painted steel is easier to customize with different colours to match specific requirements or blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
3. Suitable for Controlled Environments: While painted steel offers adequate protection in controlled environments with minimal exposure to harsh elements, its lifespan is significantly shorter than other surface finished in demanding conditions.