How to Lay Out a 90 Degree Cable Tray Bend
A horizontal 90 degree bend changes the tray route by a quarter turn in plan view. This tutorial follows TrayNeo’s ideal solid-base construction, which removes one V-shaped base wedge and a matching strip of inner wall while keeping the outer wall connected. Start with the measurement reference, then follow the same dimensions through the calculation, marking and formed views.
Try the worked example in 3D ↗Measure the base and the retained edge
Measure width W across the base and side height H vertically. Choose left or right as viewed from above, following the incoming route. The selected bend angle is the change in route direction. For this example it is 90°.
Measure the before-bend length L and after-bend length T from the intended fold axis along the retained outer edge. Use W = 200 mm, H = 50 mm and L = T = 350 mm. Both straight lengths must accommodate their half of the V opening and the calculator’s 10 mm geometric margin.
Calculate the V opening
The symmetric half-notch is d = W × tan(θ / 2), and the full opening is 2d. At 90°, tan(45°) = 1, giving d = 200 mm and 2d = 400 mm. The base width controls this horizontal opening. Side height sets the height of the matching inner-wall strip.
The fold station is 350 mm from the incoming end. At the inner base edge, mark the wedge endpoints at station − d and station + d. The wedge tip stays at the fold station on the opposite outer edge. Read the calculated stations below before marking.
Worked example dimensions
These values are calculated by the same geometry modules as the linked tool. The example link loads this exact input set, including millimetres.
| Measurement | Calculated value |
|---|---|
| Half-notch at each cut d | 200.00 mm |
| Full V opening at each cut 2d | 400.00 mm |
| Fold stations from stock start | 350.00 mm |
| V endpoints at inner edge | 150.00 – 550.00 mm |
| Total straight stock length | 700.00 mm |
Follow the cut into the formed view
Inspect the original straight section first. Mark the two diagonals from the inner-edge endpoints to the retained outer-wall tip. The corresponding inner-wall strip lies between the endpoints. In the cut view, inspect the removed wedge and strip together.
The formed view rotates the outgoing section by 90° around the retained outer-wall axis. The wedge closes and its cut edges meet. Use the linked calculator to inspect the original, marking, cut and formed stages and to compare left and right routes.
Check the method against the actual tray
This sharp-fold model calculates an ideal layout. The actual tray profile, rolled edges, material, cut width, bend allowance and joining detail require review for the selected product. Check the permitted forming process and cable bend-radius requirements separately with the relevant manufacturer documentation.
For a turn divided across multiple folds, continue to the two-45-degree tutorial. It introduces an additional axis spacing and a different stock-length calculation.
Ask for a useful field review
For peer review, include W, H, θ, L and T, specify the retained outer edge, and ask whether the marked V endpoints and the connection detail suit the actual tray profile.
Add a screenshot and the calculator’s Share calculation link after applying your dimensions. Include the tray profile and relevant joining detail so reviewers can identify the measurement convention.
Send feedback to TrayNeo ↗Calculate and continue
Cable tray horizontal bend calculator ↗- Cable Tray 90 Degree Turn with Two 45 Degree Bends ↗
- Cable Tray Offset Bend Formula and Worked Layout ↗
TrayNeo geometric demonstration. Review the model against the selected tray, material, cable route and manufacturer’s instructions before fabrication.