How to Choose the Right Electrical Cable Gland Type for Your System

Electrical Cable Glands are integral components in various electrical and industrial systems. They provide a secure connection for electrical cables entering or exiting equipment, ensuring safety and protecting the integrity of electrical systems. With the vast range of applications and environmental factors in mind, it is crucial to choose the correct electrical cable gland type for each specific requirement. This article delves into the various electrical cable gland types, their features, applications, and how to select the appropriate one for your needs.

What Are Electrical Cable Glands?

Electrical cable glands are devices used to secure and protect the ends of electrical cables when they pass through enclosures or equipment. These glands serve as both a sealing mechanism and a cable anchoring system, ensuring that cables stay securely in place while preventing the ingress of harmful substances like dust, water, and chemicals. Additionally, cable glands help to provide electrical continuity between the cable and the equipment or enclosure.

The right electrical cable gland can improve the safety, performance, and longevity of an electrical installation by offering a reliable sealing solution in harsh environments.

Different Types of Electrical Cable Glands

Selecting the correct electrical cable gland depends on the type of cable used, the environmental conditions, and the specific requirements of the installation. There are several electrical cable gland types, each suited for different applications and conditions.

1. Industrial Cable Glands

Industrial cable glands are designed to withstand tough conditions typically found in industrial environments. These glands are made from durable materials such as brass, stainless steel, or aluminium and offer a high level of protection against harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and mechanical stress.

Material: Brass, stainless steel, or aluminium, known for their robustness and resistance to corrosion.
Applications: Used in factories, power plants, and other industrial facilities that require rugged sealing.
Key Features: Resistance to corrosion, high durability, and robust sealing capabilities make them ideal for harsh conditions.

2. Explosion-Proof Cable Glands (Ex-Certified)

Explosion-proof cable glands are essential in environments where the presence of hazardous gases or dust can cause explosions. These glands are designed to provide a safe passage for cables through equipment without sparking or releasing heat that could ignite flammable substances.

Material: Often made from brass or stainless steel to meet stringent safety standards.
Applications: Common in industries like oil and gas, mining, chemical plants, and marine applications.
Key Features: Certified under global safety standards such as ATEX, IECEx, and UL, these glands provide an effective explosion-proof barrier to ensure safety in hazardous environments.

3. Waterproof Cable Glands

When electrical equipment is exposed to wet or submerged conditions, waterproof cable glands are crucial. These glands prevent moisture from entering the enclosure and protect sensitive electrical components.

Material: Typically made from polyamide (nylon), brass, or stainless steel, with added seals like O-rings to ensure water-tightness.
Applications: Common in outdoor installations, marine environments, and submarine cable installations.
Key Features: IP67 or IP68-rated waterproof glands are designed to prevent the ingress of water, ensuring electrical systems remain fully functional even in wet conditions.

4. Armoured Cable Glands

Armoured cable glands are designed for cables with armoured sheaths, providing an additional layer of protection. These glands ensure that the armour is properly terminated, preventing mechanical damage to the cable and ensuring secure anchoring.

Material: Made from brass, stainless steel, or zinc-plated steel, armoured cable glands are known for their strength and mechanical resistance.
Applications: Typically used in mining, offshore, oil and gas, and other high-security installations.
Key Features: These glands feature a robust clamping mechanism, which offers strain relief and prevents damage to both the armoured cable and the gland.

5. Non-Metallic Cable Glands

Non-metallic cable glands are an excellent choice for applications where the use of metals is either unnecessary or undesirable. These glands offer a lighter, cost-effective solution and are resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for installations where weight is a concern.

Material: Constructed from nylon, PVC, or polyamide, non-metallic glands are highly resistant to chemical exposure and offer electrical insulation.
Applications: Used in telecommunications, low-voltage systems, and enclosures where a lightweight, corrosion-resistant gland is needed.
Key Features: Non-metallic glands are UV-resistant, offer excellent mechanical protection, and are suitable for environments where electrical conductivity between the gland and equipment is not required.

6. Liquid-Tight Cable Glands

Liquid-tight cable glands are designed to prevent liquids from entering electrical enclosures, which is critical in environments where the system may be exposed to oils, chemicals, or water.

Material: Typically made from nylon, rubber, or PVC, liquid-tight glands feature integrated seals that ensure a secure barrier against liquid ingress.
Applications: Common in food processing plants, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and installations exposed to wet or humid environments.
Key Features: High IP ratings (usually IP66 or IP67), these glands provide excellent protection against water, oil, and other liquid contaminants.

7. EMC Cable Glands

EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) cable glands are designed to provide a conductive path between the cable sheath and the equipment, reducing the risk of electromagnetic interference (EMI). These glands are essential in protecting sensitive electrical equipment from high-frequency interference.

Material: Made from stainless steel or brass, often with conductive rubber or metal shielding.
Applications: Ideal for use in data centers, high-frequency communication equipment, and systems where EMI could disrupt performance.
Key Features: These glands offer effective shielding against EMI and ensure compliance with global standards like EN 50081 and EN 50082.

8. PG Thread Cable Glands

PG (Panzer Gewinde) thread cable glands are designed for cables with metric thread connections. These glands provide a secure and easy-to-install solution, especially in applications that require a versatile, reliable seal.

Material: Available in brass, aluminium, and stainless steel.
Applications: Frequently used in telecommunication systems, automation applications, and control panels.
Key Features: The PG threading provides a tight and reliable seal, while also offering flexibility for different cable types.

9. Strain Relief Cable Glands

Strain relief cable glands are designed to secure the cable and prevent strain from pulling or stretching, ensuring that the electrical cables remain intact and functional. These glands are commonly used in applications where mechanical movement or flexing is involved.

Material: Often made from nylon, brass, or stainless steel for strength and durability.
Applications: Used in robotic systems, machinery, and automation equipment where the cable is subjected to frequent movement.
Key Features: Provides strain relief to prevent damage to both the cable and the equipment, ensuring safe and long-term operation.