The choice of material affects the durability and performance of the cable tray. Stainless Steel – Ideal for harsh environments with chemical exposure. This article provides a detailed comparison of these materials, with a focus on why steel cable trays. So, choosing the right material for cable trays, one that can handle the specific challenges of its environment, is a really important decision. However, most commercial uses require. Aluminum, fiberglass, steel, and stainless steel are all readily available materials for cable tray manufacturing.