CABLE GLAND BUYING GUIDE

Cable Gland is a useful tool in providing your cable connections an extra sealant and protection from environmental hazard and pull-out resistance. waterproof cable gland is a perfect tool for general industrial application and hazardous environment.

Each cable glands ranges from different materials and cable type that it can accommodate and can be used in a wide range on installations.

Even if cable gland connector is not a user-friendly type of connector, the cable gland will surely provide you protective sealing that your connection needs.

We DIFVAN factory take pride in providing you high-quality cable gland products for your specific needs. Rest assured that we understand your concerns and we are a reliable supplier in the wiring accessories market.

If you need more help and information about Cable Glands, you can send as an email and we’ll be glad to assist you with any of your concerns, here is my mail: info@difvan.com

Here is the scripts :

1. What is a Cable Gland?
2. Where Do You Use Cable Glands?
3. What are the Types of Cable Glands?
4. Features of a Cable Gland
5. How Does a Cable Gland Work?
6. HOW ARE CABLE GLANDS TESTED AS PER BS 6121/ IEC-EN 62444-2010?
7. How to Install a Cable Gland?

What is a Cable Gland?

A Cable Gland is a device designed to connect your cables and wirings. It is used for electrical connections and may be used for sealing cables and protecting wiring connections from the elements that may cause corrosion and connection failure. It is also designed to be used in harsh or hazardous environments.

In addition to that, they are also known as Sealing Glands because it is designed to seal one or multiple wires and cables.

From the different material made, cable gland can be divided into plastic cable gland ( nylon cable gland),brass cable gland ( metal cable gland)

From the screw size different,  cable gland can be divided into PG Cable gland, M cable gland, and MG cable gland.

As a professional cable gland manufacturer for more than 10 years, we DIFVAN can  provide you all kinds of cable glands per your different usage.

Cable gland can be a single unit or can be a cable gland kits.

What are the Types of Cable Glands?

Every electrical connection has its own needs and necessary features that have to be given consideration. Cable glands are no exemption to this fact. That’s why there are different types of cable gland suitable for the environment where they are going to be installed in your connection needs. The following are different types of Cable Glands.

Types of Cable Glands Based on Standards:

1. PG Type Cable Gland

The PG Type Cable Gland is a type of cable gland that has a PG screw thread based on the Stahlpanzerrhrgewinde/ Panzergewinde standard.

It is a German Standard for conduit thread that is used in joining the pieces of the conduit and the cable glands. These types of cable glands are used in various equipment and enclosures like junction boxes and connectors.

Pg cable gland may be produced from brass, plastic, nickel plated or nylon that has high resistance to high temperature and flammability. This kind of pg cable gland is also resistant for different ranges of cables.

In addition to that, it is also resistant to salt water, weak acid, alcohol, grease, oil and moisture. Its protection degree is IP 68 and can have a working temperature of -40°C to 100°C, depending on the cable gland manufacturers.

It is applicable to machinery control boxes, distribution panels, electrical appliances, machines, etc.

You can check the table below for the different sizes that are available in the market:

2. M- Type Cable Gland

The M-Type Cable Gland is a metric cable gland that may be manufactured from nylon, brass, plastic or nickel-plated. It is designed with high temperature and flammability resistance.

Other than that, M cable gland is also resistant to different type of weak chemicals, oil, alcohol, grease and moisture.

M cable gland has a working temperature of -40°C to 100°C depending on the cable gland manufacturers and protection degree of IP68.

For example, is the cable gland m25 model that can accommodate cables that ranges in sizes from 13-18”, while cable gland m20x1.5 can accommodate cables that ranges from 6-12”.

3. MG Type Cable Gland

An MG type Cable Gland has an MG thread and suitable for unarmored or plastic insulated cables. It has an operating temperature of -25°C up to 85°C and above, which depends on the manufacturers.

M cable gland is also available in for indoor and outdoor use that provides a corrosion resistance and vibration proof feature. Other than that, it is also resistant to various chemicals, oil, grease, water, and others.

An MG type cable gland can be manufactured from brass, plastic, and nylon that may be available in various color.

     4.NPT Type Cable Gland

One other type of Cable gland is the based on the National Standard Pipe Thread or NPT thread.

Npt cable gland  is a US standard for screw thread used in cable glands. One example of Cable Gland that uses an NPT thread is PCG cable gland. It is a standard plastic cable gland that is easy to use that is ideal for strain relief and water seal for round cables. For example a PCG-3/4 is a cable gland ¾ NPT has a diameter of 14-18 mm, while a PCG -1/2X is a cable gland ½ NPT that has a of 5-9 mm.

Types of Cable Gland Based on Materials

1. Nylon Cable Gland

A Nylon Cable Gland is one of the materials commonly used in production of cable glands. It is specifically designed for high resistance on UV in outdoor applications. It has a working temperature range of -40°C to 100°C. This plastic cable gland is manufactured with an IP68 protection degree and provides a watertight and dust-tight seal.

Other than that, it is also available in various colors depending on manufacturers.DIFVAN nylon cable gland  is commonly black and white, red and blue which is perfect for color-coding your cables.

An example is the waterproof cable gland in nylon material on the picture above: it is a PG16 cable gland standard model suitable for high water proofing and easy to install.

Nylon cable glands are also called as “Ultimate”. Most end users prefer this type over the years. Some of the reasons why this cable gland is a top choice:

• Nylon cable gland have large size range
• Nylon cable gland Can continuously withstand temperature of  -40° to 100°C
• Ideal for marine industry and other vibration prone environments
• Nylon cable gland Has a short term withstand temperature rating of 200°C
• Nylon cable gland Has superior cable retention due to locking mechanism (Metric thread with lock nut and seal).
• Nylon cable gland has additional neoprene seal washer supplied as standard
• UV stabilized

Why Use Nylon Cable Glands?

1. Nylon cable glands come in different colors such as red, blue, grey, white and black which will be very efficient when color-coding your cables. A color-coded cable system allows you to have easier work especially during maintenance. This is very helpful in your data application or telecommunication applications.
2. IP or Ingress Protection is a factor used in defining levels of sealing effectiveness of electrical enclosures against invasion from dirt and moisture. When looking on the IP rating, each number attached to the IP rating shows the degree of protection. A nylon cable gland can have the highest IP rating. It can be as high as IP68.
3. The standard for safety of flammability rating is UL94 V0. A nylon cable gland is beneficial to use because it possesses this standard. Getting a nylon cable gland can deliver the best suitable solution for your data cables and electrical cables.

If you worry about price of nylon cable gland, if the price is high and not suitable for sell in your market, there’s also another choice,  there’s another kind of plastic cable gland in DIFVAN factory, as a professional cable gland supplier,

DIFVAN factory also provide PVC  cable gland for your choice when you market not accept higher price, some country like India, Pakistan like this kind PVC cable gland very much.

2. Brass Cable Gland

A Brass Cable Gland is one of the standard materials in producing cable glands. It is also one of the glands that caters a wider range of wire types.

Brass cable gland  is suitable for unarmored cables, AWA and SWA cables, CX brass cable, braided cables, and armored cables. DIFVAN brass cable gland is compatible with indoor and outdoor application that provides electrical continuity and mechanical retention of the cable.

Brass  cable gland has also become one of the most preferred materials in manufacturing industries because of its combining properties. Here are the top factors why Brass Cable Glands are a top choice for many:

• Strength and Sturdiness
• Machinability
• Hardness
• Wear-resistance
• Ductility
• Corrosion-resistance
• Electrical and thermal conductivity
• Cost-effective

Brass Cable Glands can be plated with nickel which can produce better life for the accessories. Since brass is an alloy from zinc and copper, cable gland metal is corrosion-resistant and can withstand the common cable problems like early damage and being prone to dusts. DIFVAN brass cable gland are also temperature-proof; meaning, they do not instantly turn soft when exposed to high temperature. This can prevent leakages or breakage. Brass cable gland are available in various sizes (diameters) so it can be flexible to any type of extreme loads.

Most Common Types of Brass Cable Glands:

1. Standard Brass Cable Glands

Standard Brass Cable Glands are cable glands that are metallic outside and with plastic insert inside. This will provide better protection against bends and deformities. cable gland components are widely used in medical equipment, machineries, measuring and controlling devices. cable bushing are widely used because of these useful features:

• Long threads
• Liquid tight
• Lamellar design
• Reduced clamping range
• Strain relief

2. EMC Brass Cable Glands

DIFVAN cable gland is attached to the gland body to provide easy access to cables. It maintains integrity and electromagnetic shields. Brass cable gland are widely used because of lower contact resistance and wider gap between braided portions of the cables.

Cable bushing also assists in the installation and removal of cable in an easier way and low-maintenance factor.

3. Double Seal Brass Cable Glands

>DIFVAN brass cable gland highly used in medical equipment and machineries that requires better safety and stress-resistance. Because it can withstand extreme temperatures for as much as 300 degrees, Cable gland comes with double sealant and special silicon sealing. cable bushing has a wide clamping range.

4. Marine Brass Cable Glands

>Electrical cable gland are commonly perfected with nickel, tin and chrome for a more natural finish. These brass  cable glands are widely used in marine applications or ship decks.

To give you a summary, here are the features of brass cable glands:

• Nickel plated
• Flame-proof enclosure
• Leak-proof
• NPT/PG threads
• Restricted breathing
• IP68/IP69K standards 

Where Do You Use Cable Glands?

Brass Cable Gland Cable Gland or cable gland joints are a necessary tool in terminating devices that acts as a sealant for it ensures the safety of your electrical equipment. The following are where cable glands are used:

• Electrical connection
• Instrumentation and control
• Automation systems such as lighting, power, data and telecommunications

Cable glands parts can be constructed from metallic or non-metallic materials. Cable gland assembly can also be a combination of both. cable gland ip65 are resistant to corrosion as determined by selection to a standard, or by corrosion resistance tests.

Functions of Cable Glands

The use of cable gland will not just connect or seal your cable and wiring connections, but it is also designed to provide the following functions:

1. Environmental Sealant

 A Cable gland provides your wiring connections the protection against dust, moisture and other chemical exposure that may cause corrosion or connection failure.

Brass cable gland is also the perfect tool for harsh environment for it prevents the entry of flammable gas into your equipment and water pressure or liquids like water, oil, or chemicals and moisture.

DIFVAN cable glands also serves as an environmental protection. marine cable gland functions by sealing on the outer cable sheath, excluding dust and moisture from the electrical or instrument enclosure.

2. Pull-Out Resistance

It is one of the main features of a cable gland- DIFVAN cable gland seals environmental corrosion and it has a high holding force that prevents certain level of cable pull out. This gives you a relief from possible connection failures especially if you are working on hazardous areas.

3. Strength and Impact Resistance

The brass Cable gland is designed to be suitable in heavy duty services that protects and capable for long-lasting connection.

CABLE GLANDS (BASED ON MATERIALS) TYPES & USES:

The cable glands are commonly manufactured from brass and nylon. They are the standard types of cable glands that are suitable for various cable connections compatible with your cable installations. Here are the following brass and nylon cable gland:

Other Types of Cable Glands Based on Purpose

1. CABLE GRIP/ CORD GRIP

A Cable grip or Cord Grip is a cable gland connector that gives your connections an extra sealing and pull-out resistance. They are commonly used in industrial and commercial applications and also prevents cable damage or failure.

DIFVAN Cord Grip is a connector that is suitable in wet and dry locations and protects connections from oil, dust, dirt, and other corrosive materials.

They are customizable from sizes, thread type, style, and even color and materials, but these cable grips are commonly made out of aluminum and sometimes available with a wire mesh.

TYPES OF CABLE GRIP/CORD GRIP

1. STANDARD CABLE GRIPS

The standard cable grip is the ideal grips for typical application of a single or group of cables. It is available in different types of cable grips that acts as a support for cables and easy installation for replacing cables. It is available in single eye, double eye, and lace up cable grips suitable for light to medium cable loads.

2. HEAVY DUTY CABLE GRIPS

The heavy-duty cable grips comes with a wire mesh that has double to triple weave wire ropes made from aluminum conductor that is ideal for heavy duty loads. It also has a color-coded identification to ease application for cable reinforcement.

3. METRIC CABLE GRIPS

The metric cable grips are an ideal cable grip for light to medium pulling loads. It is may also be designed with a longer lattice wire mesh than the standard cable grip and reinforced with a thimble that helps provide and extra support to the cables.

THINGS TO CONSIDER IN CHOOSING THE RIGHT CABLE/ CORD GRIP

Cable grips or cord grips have been in the cable gland industry since 1940s. A Cable grip continuously expands in design and features throughout the generation, because these grips can now be used for various applications both in wet and dry environment.

Here are the following things to consider in choosing the right cable grips:

1. SIZE

In choosing the right size for your cable grip there are three things you need to consider other than just the size of the cable grip itself.

First, the outside diameter helps you identify the correct cable grip for single cable termination. It should be the tightest fit to securely protect your cables and ease application. Second is the threaded opening of your cable to tightly secure your connection.

It is commonly done by choosing the smallest cord grip size based on outside diameter of your cable or you could just check your cables specifications. The last one is to determine if it’s a single or multiple cable termination.

In a single cable termination, you just need to know the outside diameter of the cable while if it’s a multiple cable termination you need to know the outside diameter of all the cables you’re going to use.

2. MATERIALS

A cable grip can be manufactured from various materials and each serving different purposes:

• Aluminum

One of the most common material, it offers durability and grips suited for industrial applications. Aluminum cable grips are commonly used in automotive plants or general manufacturer. However, it is not compatible with harsh environment or to be exposed to corrosive elements.

• Nylon

The Nylon based cable grip is the ideal material that is corrosion resistant and very durable. It is the ideal material for cable grip that is suitable for damp environment applications and exposed to various contaminants. It’s also available in various colors that ease applications.

• Stainless Steel

The stainless-steel material provides the highest tensile strength and durability. It is commonly used for environments that is exposed to various contaminants like acids, salt water and other chemicals providing your connections with corrosion resistance.

• Valox

The Valox material is an FDA approved that has superior in corrosion resistance and washdown environment but a bit expensive with limited range of sizes.

• Steel

A steel cable grip has the functions as the aluminum cable grip but has a better tensile strength. It is commonly added with a zinc-chromium plated that resist rust corrosion.

• Nickel-Plated Aluminum

The nickel-plated aluminum is a cheaper material in contrast with stainless steel and an ideal material for applications that requires corrosion and wears resistance.

3. THREAD TYPE

The thread type helps determine what cable grip to use. It is available in NPT, PG and Metric type of cable thread, to know this you can simply look at your cable’s specifications.

4. STYLE

Cable grips may be available in two basic styles of basic grip. It comes in with either a straight cable grip or 90° cable grip. In choosing the right style of cable grip, you just need to know the application environment of the cables.

5. CABLE GRIP INCLUSIONS

A Cable grip may sometimes include other standard materials:

• Wire Mesh

It is commonly manufactured from aluminum that supports grips from cable pulling and strain relieving. A cable grip may come in with a wire mesh that supports cable weight in various applications.

• Multiple Hole Bushing

The multiple hole bushing is an affordable alternative to cable entry. It reduces possible corrosion and an ideal tool for confined spaces and harsh applications.

• Flat and round cable

A cable grip can accommodate both flat and round cable and provides various cable installations possible.

2. CABLE GLAND RJ-45 

A cable gland rj-45 is an ethernet cable gland specifically designed to connect on RJ-45 cables or LAN applications. This cable gland provides a waterproof and weather-proof feature that protects and seals your connection. These type of cable glands are either available in IP67 or IP68 protection degree. They are also used in the following applications:

• Cellular phones
• Radio modules
• Industrial RF devices
• PCMCIA/CF wireless cards

3. CABLE GLAND 90 DEGREE

The Cable Gland 90° is a 90-degree angle connector for cable glands. It allows the cable glands to be installed on places with spatial constraints. Its 90° right angle provides protection of cables and has a IP68 protection degree. It also has a working temperature of -40°C to 100°C. It can protect cable elbows when extracting cable in a right angle direction. You can use them into the following applications:

1. Distribution Box
2. Distribution Cabinets
3. Control Cabinets
4. Power Stations
5. Communication Networks

4. CABLE GLAND PLATES

The Cable Gland Plates also known as cable entry gland plate is a toll to fast and tool free installation. It is an ideal plate for many incoming or outgoing cable for limited installation space. It has a temperature resistance of -30°C up to 70°C. It is also available in metal and plastic and various shapes and sizes.

You can purchase the following types of cable gland plates:

• Heavy-duty gland plate– comes with high strain relief and certified protection up to IP68 / UL type 4X.
• High-density gland plate – Gland plate with high cable density and certified protection IP66 / UL type 12.
• Gland plate for terminal boxes– Gland plate with very high cable density and certified protection IP65 / UL type 12.
• Round gland plate– Round gland plate with certified sealing IP66/IP68 / UL type 12/4X. Metric threads M25-M63
• Plug-in gland plate– Gland plate with high cable density for tool-free plug-in assembly. Certified sealing rates IP64 / UL type 12.
• Round plug-in gland plate– Compact round cable entry plate with high cable density.
• Pyramid cable entry grommet– Flexible pyramid shaped cable entry grommet for cable diameters 3-70 mm. Metric threads M25-M85
• Membrane plugs for cable entry plates– These are plugs for sealing already pierced membranes of cable entry plates

5. GLANDS FOR FOOD HYGIENE AND PHARMACEUTICAL FITTINGS

The Hygienic Cable Glands are specifically used for areas that focus on the cleanliness of products from contaminants.

It is a safe and risk-free gland used for pharmaceutical, food processing, and chemical industry application. These types of glands passed the EHEDG (European Engineering and Design Group) standards focused on hygienic engineering.

These products are used to various consumable products like food, beverages, and medicines. The purpose is it protects consumers from ingesting contaminated products and pose serious health problems.

In these applications, it is a requirement that food, beverage, chemical, and pharmaceutical machinery must undergo a regular cleaning session.

Unlike the standard cable gland, the Hygiene cable glands specialized with regular disinfectant and cleaning machinery procedures.

They do not deteriorate over time due to exposure to strong cleaning chemicals and doesn’t have ridges or cavities that may allow the accumulation of bacteria and various contaminants to develop.

Types of Hygiene Glands According to Materials:

Stainless Steel Cable Gland

The stainless-steel cable gland is the standard gland used to avoid contamination, the possible build of bacteria colonies and exposure to dust and moisture.

It is designed with a smooth surface and no gaps or external threads and FDA approved plastic seals that are compatible in contact with food. It is purposely created to secure seals on your applications.

This standard hygiene gland may be available M8 to M40 sizes that are compatible with cables from 4mm up to 29 mm. It also has an IP rating of IP66 to IP68 and IP69K and can be used on temperatures from -40°C up to 85°C

Plastic Cable Gland

The Plastic Hygiene Gland is made from polyamide material that is compatible with food and beverages. It is also widely used in chemical engineering and pharmaceutical industry.

It is resistant to various cleaning agents and disinfectants or high-pressure cleaners because it has no gaps, cavities or open thread that protects it for the possible formation of microorganisms.

It is designed with an IP rating of IP66 up to IP 68 and IP69K. The standard sizes are M16 to M32 that can accommodate 7mm up to 23 mm cable diameters and temperature range of -20°C up to 110°C.

Advantages of Hygiene Cable Gland

Any product that is consumed and ingested by consumers requires meticulous production. This includes the storage system, the contaminant-free environment, packaging, cleaning procedures, cooking process for foods and many other more.

A single human element or unintentional hosting of automated systems could quickly contaminate your whole production and may cost it for shut down.

Here are the advantages you can get by using the proper Hygiene Cable Gland than your standard glands:

1. COST EFFICIENCY

One would definitely wonder how can specialized product cost you less if you are spending more on these products. This doesn’t pertain to your expenses today but your expenses in the long run.

Various companies that sell foods, medicine and beverages will be pulled out from the markets if various contaminants more than the FDA standard are found.

This will cause a major uproar to the regular operations and major financial loss. Other than that, a forced shutdown may be issued if a company cannot comply with standards. Hygiene Cable Glands can help you save and run your business based on specific applicable standard.

2. TIME EFFICIENCY

The use of hygienic cable gland will help your company to stop you from regularly replacing your gland.  This benefits your machines from shutting down regularly just because your regular gland keeps corroding and producing rusts.

It will not only cost you more, but the production deadline and target quota will be moved every single time.

This is very critical because every downtime will heavily cost you per minute and time and resources will keep cutting your expenses. It will cost you more if the maintenance and re-work has to be done in an untimely manner.

3. CORROSION-FREE

The Hygienic cable gland is specialized to be resistant to various cleaning agents and disinfection. This allows the cleaning of your machinery without worrying about possibly corroding your glands and other chemicals from staying.

It is designed with round edges with no exterior threading, this prevents your glands from corroding after being exposed to various chemicals and temperature.

It gives you the assurance that your connections won’t be easily corroded and majorly affecting your operation.

4. CONTAMINATION-FREE

The hygiene cable gland is designed with no gaps and round edge to allow you to easily clean your glands. This also prevents detergents and possible contaminants from sticking on the surface of the gland.

It also provides protection on your products from accumulating bacteria that may contaminate your products because it is designed to precision fit so that any splatters from your products won’t stick on your glands.

6. DOUBLE COMPRESSION GLANDS

The Double Compression Gland is a universal type of glands suitable for all types of armored and unarmored cable. It is the ideal cable gland for the hazardous environment that is exposed to numerous contaminations like gas, dust, moisture and chemicals and indoor and outdoor applications.

It has a two-sealing compression that provides a weather-proof and flame-proof sealant. This gives extra support for heavy armored cables both from the cable armor and the inner sheath of the gland.

The Double compression cable gland has an IP rating of 66 and 68 and comes in nickel plated brass, brass, and stainless steel. It can accommodate both NPT and Metric cable sizes and can withstand a temperature of -30°C up to 100°C.

Double Compression Gland for Armored Cable

The Double Compression gland can accommodate all types of armored cables or SWA (steel wire armored cables) cable typically used for indoor and outdoor applications.

It has an ingress protection of IP 65 that can withstand a temperature of -30°C up to 100°C. It is also designed with a weather-proof sealant that protects your connection from environmental contaminants.

The double compression cable gland for armored cable has 10 parts, namely the following:

1. Compression Nut
2. Support Ring
3. Outer Seal
4. Inner Seal
5. Gland Body
6. Lock Nut
7. Armor Cone
8. Cover Nut
9. Clamping Ring
10. Flat washer

*note: the parts may be different from various manufacturers design

Double Compression Cable Gland Size Chart for Armored Cable

Double Compression Cable Gland Size Chart for Unarmored Cable

Features of a Cable Gland

Cable Glands are specifically designed to withstand your connections with the harsh environment.

cable gland prevents from sudden connections accidents and lowers risk in the area. The following are the key features in using cable glands.

A Cable Gland provides several features:

1. Flame-proof

Cable Glands are specifically designed to prohibit the ignition of flammable mixture in the connection. The glands protect the connection from sudden sparks and minimize danger.

2. Impact resistance

Each cable gland should pass the resistance test on external impact.  It should be the ideal tool that passed the ingress protection rate and must provide resistance from various friction and vibrations even under extreme temperature.

3. Explosion proof

Cable gland provides protection against possible explosion from your connections. It does not only protect your cables from external contaminations that could cause possible explosions but also insulates your connection to limit the possibility of explosions and accidents with the connections.

4. EMI (Electromagnetic) shielding

The EMI or electromagnetic interference is common transmission problems from cables and electrical appliances. In using the right cable gland, it provides EMI shielding of your connection.

It prevents interferences from emitting on neighboring cables that could cost connection failure.

5. Weather-proofing

One of the main features of a cable gland is to have a weather-proof capability. This ensures its purpose to use for cable connections that requires protection from weather that promotes corrosion.

It protects from exposure in harsh weather environment that might cause corrosion.

6. Environmental sealant

A cable gland should effectively be resistant to various chemical damage, oil exposure, and various dust or gases. A cable gland should have the proper sealant that won’t allow these environmental from entering the connection and possibly deteriorating the cables.

7. Strain relief

A cable gland’s main function is to seal and protect your cable connection. It shouldn’t cost strain on the cable and should freely hold the cables without causing any damage to your cables.

It should protect your wirings from the mechanical force being applied to the exterior of the cable for it might cause a connection failure.

What are the Common Applications of a Cable Gland?

Cable Gland is a connector that can be used in various applications. Here are the following fields where cable glands can be used:

Figure 8. Cable Glands Application

(Source: https://www.globalspec.com/learnmore/electrical_electronic_components/wires_cables/cable_glands)

How Does a Cable Gland Work?

A cable gland is a connector of a cable to an electric source. It is divided into different applications depending on where it will be used or what type of cable it is going to connect.

A Cable gland can be used for two purposes:

1.) General Industrial applications

2.) Hazardous applications

The former are your common applications for electrical connections like ethernet cable, household wiring and others. The latter is used for protection against high temperatures and/or risk of explosions. cable gland are connections used to extreme environment and explosive atmosphere.

According to the regulation of DSEAR 2002 (Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations), these extreme environment and explosive atmosphere are work places with dangerous substance with the air.

It could be gases, vapors, mist, gases, dust that can cause possible ignition. These are work places that handle fine organic dusts from grain flour or wood.

This also include factories of paints and other chemicals where a single spark from an electrical current and the like may cause an explosion or flame.

It allows electricity to pass through the cable and the power source and ensures the safety of your connection and anyone nearby.

It seals your cable to prevent it from slipping off from your connections, grounding the wire and insulating your cables, preventing electrical seepage.

Guide for Choosing the Right Cable Gland

In choosing the right cable gland, it’s not enough just to know neither the name nor the color of the gland. There are several things to consider before buying one. This guide will help you know how to choose the right cable gland for your desired installation:

1. ENVIRONMENT

In installation of cable glands, it doesn’t matter what application it is for but rather the environment where it is going to be installed. You can use these questions as a guide:

1. Are you using it indoors or outdoors?
2. Will it be installed in an industrial zone or a hazardous workplace?
3. What is the working temperature, is it constant or high temperature?
4. Is the environment damp or dusty?
5. Are there any corrosive materials nearby?
6. Is it exposed to different gases or weathering?
7. Is the pressure rating high enough for your application needs?
8. Do you have a sufficient cable diameter?
9. Does it comply with national or international codes of practice?

Answering these questions will help in limiting the list of cable glands to what you really need. It ensures the safety of your installation.

It is vital that you check on the supplier you will buy it from because the rating system is a top factor – the Ingress Protection or IP marking should be highly considered. The rates marking usually go up to IP68 and IP69K.

2. CABLE TYPE

Cable glands have its own specificity in terms of the type of cable you are going to use. Cables have two types: 1.) Armored cable & 2.) Unarmored cable.

An Armored cable has an extra layer of protection that prevents damage to the wirings. It may be a single wire armor, pliable wire armor or braided armor. They each serve a purpose depending on where it is going to be installed. For Unarmored cable, there is no seal but just your basic cable.

The reason why you should consider this is because armored cable has a different diameter in terms of inner bedding lead covering. This will help you identify what cable gland is suitable for each cable.

Other than that, it is also important to consider the following for both types of cables:

1. Cable diameter
2. Construction Size
3. Cable material

ARMORED CABLE GLAND

The Armored Cable Gland is the type of gland compatible for armored cable installation. It is commonly used for underground systems and power installation.

DIFVAN cable glands are compatible with indoor and outdoor applications. It is also compatible for hazardous environment applications and has an ingress protection of IP65 and IP68. It can also accommodate various types of armored cables and available in various sizes.

pg cable gland and m cable gland maintains earth continuity and ensures sealing grip against external contaminant and internal explosion through its flameproof feature. It also ensures strain relief for the cables.

TYPES OF CABLE GLANDS BASED ON THE ARMORED CABLE USED:

1. Steel Wire Armored Cable Glands (SWA)

The SWA Cable glands is a type of cable gland that accommodates the SWA cables.

It is a cable gland that is suitable for all SWA cable suitable for indoor and outdoor applications. It provides an IP66 environmental seal that both protects the cable’s inner and other sheaths.

2. Aluminum Wire Armored Cable Glands (AWA)

The AWA wire armored cable glands are those that accommodate AWA wires. It is compatible for indoor and outdoor installation that insulates the cables from weather corrosion and various environmental contaminant that might cause a connection. It is available with an ingress protection of IP66 and can be used for heavy-duty connections.

ARMORED CABLE GLAND INSTALLATION PROCEDURE

A Cable Gland can accommodate two types of armored cable- AWA and SWA cable. They are the standard cables for underground installation that provides dual protection wiring connection than a typical cable.

The difference between a regular cable and an armored cable is its conductor cores that range from 2 to 4 cores. Some manufacturers even provide more than that. It is the ideal cable for industrial applications and heavy-duty wiring installation.

Here is an installation procedure of a SWA cable:

(*Note: Before installation makes sure that the power source is switched off and cannot be accidentally turned back on. This installation information is for home installation, if unsure of what to do, it is more suitable to call an electrician to avoid unnecessary accidents and termination failure.)

Step 1. Prepare your materials

In installing your armored cable gland, make sure that your cutting tools, splicing tool, wrenches, and cable gland are already prepared.

Avoid using tools unfit for cable cutting and splicing. This will avoid any potential accidents and installation errors.

If necessary, wear safety goggles if the workplace is exposed to dust or any harmful components. You can use gloves to avoid skin irritation from possible components from the gland.

Step 2. Cut the cables

Cut the cable with a wire cutter or a hacksaw depending on the size of the cable being installed.

Step 3. Prepare your Gland

Each type of cable gland has different parts. For example, an external gland has the following parts: 1.) Nut, 2.) earth tag, 3.) nozzle, 4.) collar, 5.) collar nut, 6.) nut with a rubber seal, and 7.) cover.

In preparing your cable, make sure to place it on a safe and clean place. Do not leave it on the floor or on dirt that could possibly contaminate the gland.

Make sure that it is clean did not come in any contaminants and moisture. This is to avoid connection failure. Other than that, do not lose the other parts because the sealing grip won’t work.

Step 4. Insert the needed parts.

Drill a hole that will allow the nozzle of the cable gland to fit through. In this installation, it will be fastened on a waterproof adaptable box. After drilling a hole, insert the earth tag followed by the nozzle through the hole and screw the nut inside the box to hold the nozzle in place. Use two spanners or wrench each holding the nut and the nozzle and turn them tightly. (Do not overtighten the gland)

Afterwards, cut the cover of the gland and insert the cable followed by the rubber sealing ring, nozzle nut, and the collar onto the cable.

Step 5. Cut the outer protective sheath and galvanized wire

Cut the other protective sheath of the cable to expose the galvanized steel wires. Gently spread the wires and cut it on a length enough to insert in the gland.

The exposed wire should look like this. Be extra careful in cutting the galvanized wires. You have to use appropriate cutting tools in doing so especially on thicker SWA cables.

Step 6. Insert the parts

Simply push up the wires of the inner core through the nozzle, making the galvanized wires to flare outside. Push the collar over the wire to the nozzle and use two spanners to tightly connect the parts.

Finally, slide up the cover over the gland for extra sealant.

Step 7. Inner insulation

After connecting your glands, you can now strip your inner insulation. You can just simply use a cutting tool to cut through the cover but be careful not to damage the inner cores. Afterwards, you can now splice your inner wires to connect on various connectors.

3. MATERIAL TYPE

Cable glands have three main types:

1.) Metal (Brass, Aluminum, Stainless Steel) – This type of cable gland is used for applications in technology, chemical industry and other areas that has a high demand in tools that have high durability from wet and rigid environment.

2.) Plastic – The Plastic Cable gland is an adaptable gland that can be used in a wide range of application. It is also specifically resistant to salt water, weak acids, grease and others.

3.) Nylon– Nylon Cable Glands however are designed to have a UV resistance and a higher rate of resistance relief.

4. RATINGS AND STANDARDS

Cable glands are designed to ensure the safety of the user and the connection. That is why it has an Ingress Protection Marking or IP rates in every type of cable glands.

These ratings are based on its compatibility to the environment to where it is going to be installed. The higher rates, the more compatible it is on hazardous environment.

Most cable glands are also produced based on the European Standard or EN50262 that tells which cable gland is suitable for a certain connection and its compatibility.

When you finally have the answers to those questions and about to buy your cable gland, make sure to check the products specification. Every manufacturer has different specifications of their cable gland.

For example, the Cable Gland Lapp of the Lapp Group Company has its own specifications. This will ensure the safety of your connection and will help you correctly choose the cable glands based on your needs.

CABLE GLAND SIZE CHART GUIDE

In choosing the right cable gland for your connections, it is important to check the wire diameter to know what size of cable is suitable for you to use.

Here is a cable gland sizing chart to familiarize yourself with the standard sizes of cable gland (*there is a possibility that other manufacturers have slight differences in their own sizing chart):

*Note: the 32mm CW Outdoor Cable gland is only compatible with the 3 core 25mmA2 cable wire.

HOW ARE CABLE GLANDS TESTED AS PER BS 6121/ IEC-EN 62444-2010?

A cable gland produced with efficiency in sealing and environmental protection must undergo product testing as per BS 6121/ IEC-EN 62444-2010. Here is a sample test plan of a cable gland for testing requirements/method as per 6121:

Figure. Cable Gland Testing Plan

The next table pertains to the test plan of cable glands as per IEC 624444-2010. This entails cable glands electrical installation test.

Cable glands should pass all the necessary testing procedures before it can be deemed as a capable cable gland. It should adhere to the standard procedures given by various testing companies.

This is a requirement for all manufacturers even before they have their products out in the market. Passing the testing procedure is critical. It is important to check on the quality of the cable gland you are buying to serve its purpose on any installation and give you a safe connection.

How to Install a Cable Gland?

Installing cable gland is not user-friendly. It requires careful installation and quite a few protective gears and materials. Here are the following things you need before installation.

1. Gloves and Safety glasses

It is important to use gloves and safety glasses in installing your cable glands. It usually includes components that may cause skin and eye irritation.

2. Digital Measuring Device

Even though this is an optional product, properly measuring your cable gland size and your cable’s diameter is important to ensure that your connection will be a perfect match.

3. Spanners

Are tools like wrenches that give your connection an extra tighter seal to your connection.

4. Cutting tools

When you are about to splice your cable make sure to use the proper cutting tools depending on the size of your cable to ease your job and to avoid injuries.

In installing your cable gland, it is also important to know what type of cable gland it is and its parts. Here is an example of an installation procedure for cable glands:

1. Know the parts of the cable gland.
2. Dismantle its parts but not more than what is necessary. (This depends on the type of cable gland, there could be more or less on each type).

3. Secure the cable gland into the equipment.

4. Determine the length pf the conductor suitable for your wire to reveal the insulated conductors

5. Insert the cable gland into the cable on the desired position. Start rotating the outer seal nut into the entry item until its tightly locked. You may also use a spanner or a wrench to give it a tighter seal.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

1.) In installing your cable gland, make sure to wear protective gear for the resin used in the gland may cause eye and skin irritation.

2.) Avoid contact with food

3.) Carefully follow your installation manual from every product profile to avoid installation failure or accident. Different cable glands have different installation process, so carefully install each part according to where they should be placed.

4.) Cable gland components are not interchangeable with other cable gland manufacturers, for your safety buy from the same manufacturer.

5.) Cable gland shouldn’t be expose to dirt or other chemicals before installation.

6.) Do not install your cable gland or dismantle your wire until the circuit power has been completely turned-off.

7.) Do not dismantle the cable gland more what it needs to be.

Cable Gland Kits

Do you know that you can also get a cable gland kit? A cable gland kit comes with all the parts necessary to fit cable glands securely to an electrical cable. As explained and discussed, a cable gland is a device that attaches and secures the end of an electrical cable to the equipment.

It is necessary for the cable gland to maintain the IP (ingress protection) rating of enclosures by keeping out dust and moisture. By getting a cable gland kit, you can be able to fit cable glands properly.

This will prevent the cables from pulling out, deforming, breaking or twisting while it is connected to the equipment.

Sealing Cable Glands have accessories that are very important and critical for the safety of your installations and its over-all performance. These accessories can be both separately or already included if you purchase a kit. They are the following:

Standard Locknuts and Grounding Locknuts – Cable gland locknuts are small, hexagonal devices, used for securing all types of cable grommets and cable glands into proper position. They are used in a number of industries that use cable and wiring for electrical instrumentation and automation systems. It consists of three parts: two gland halves and a split sealing grommet. These three are screwed together with the hexagonal cable gland locknut. They come in different sizes and materials built that are specifically used for the following:

• Brass – This type of locknuts are recommended in securing brass cable glands and accessories to a gland plate or into equipment.
• Stainless steel – is a type of locknut that is corrosion resistant with increased strength at high temperatures.
• Fibreglass – is a locknut for use with standard plastic round top thread cable glands.

Earth tags– Earth tags serve as a bonding point and are made of brass which is used for earthing metal glands.

They have a hole in the tag end for connecting the earth conductor to. It is very simple to use because you just slip it on before installation. They can be unplated or nickel plated.

Serrated Washers– Also known as “Shake Proof” Washers, it acts as an anti-vibration device to prevent your cable gland or other cable entry device and locknut arrangement from loosening.

It can also be used as an earth enhancing device on painted enclosures. They are manufactured in stainless steel materials.

An Entry Thread Sealing Washer at the gland entry interface is necessary to maintain the Ingress Protection rating between the equipment and cable gland.

Shrouds– Shrouds are commonly specified and used on cable glands outdoors as an aid to weather proofing. Its function is to reduce or eliminate the risk of dirt or foreign substances gathering on the Cable Gland and point of cable to cable interface.

They are available in variety of colors and sizes, depending on your needs and cable gland specifications.

The Cable gland kit can be used to attach the cable glands securely to the following:

• Electrical power
• Electrical control
• Instrumentation
• Data Cables
• Telecommunications cables.

Types of Cable Gland Kits:

1. Armoured kits – used for fitting glands to cables with an extra layer of protection like steel cables
2. Unarmoured kits – used for cables with one or two mutually sealed conductors
3. Atex kits – used with cable glands in petrochemical cable fittings
4. Hazardous kits – are used for fitting cable glands onto cables in dangerous or high-risk enclosures

Some manufacturers also provide several kinds and types of Cable Gland Kits like the following:

1. Industrial Indoor Cable Gland Kit– kits that are used for rapid termination of steel wired armoured cables with the added ability of inspection.
2. 2. Industrial Cable Gland Kit – kits that are used for wire braided cables where superior cable retention is required.
3. Brass Gland Kit- kits that are used for industrial brass glands for unarmoured cables
4. Industrial Outdoor Cable Gland Kit- kits that are used for simple inspection and armour continuity.
5. Aluminium Gland Kit – kits that are used for AWA cables whilst enabling inspection of armour continuity
6. Low Smoke Zero Halogen Cable Gland Kits – refers to Low smoke zero halogen cable gland kits industrial indoor cable glands for rapid termination of steel wire LSOH armoured cables and dual seal high performance cable glands.
7. FP Cable Gland Kits– kits that are used for FP cable glands including nylon cable glands for fire alarm cables. It can also include weather proof dual seal high performance glands for steel wire armoured cables.

Multiple Hole Cable Glands

Together with cord grips, Multiple Hole Cable Glands are used if you want to seal multiple wires through a single cable gland. It can help you save space because it limits the number of cord grips used for entry in your panel box, combiner box or enclosures.

Additionally, it can seal off any unused hole in the multiple cable strain relief or cable gland. You can purchase them in models ranging from 2 wire holes up to 10. It can provide an ingress protection rating of IP68 which exceeds NEMA 4X.

They have corrosion-resistant properties. They are widely used in the following applications:

• Machineries
• Automatic controls
• Connectors
• Electrical network
• Telecoms or communications
• Lighting

Multiple Hole Cable Glands can be purchased in different specifications such as cable and thread diameter. Depending on the type of material you will use, it is available in nylon or brass.

1. Nylon Multi Hole Cable Gland – they are available in in different entry holes, from 2 up to 8 or 10 holes with different diameter sizes. Below is an example:

2. Brass Multi Hole Cable Gland – nickel plated brass multi hole cable glands can be available in different entry holes, with different colors, diameter sizes and with a standard thread type and variety of colors (depending on the manufacturer).

When buying, you must always check these top factors to make sure that the high-quality standards are met:

• IP68 Protection Degree ( as needed)
• Working Temperature of -40 degrees Celsius to 100 degrees Celsius
• Weather resistant
• Fire-proof
• UL approved nylon PA66 material
• With Safety Ratchet to prevent from coming loose under vibration
• Non-Corrosive (resistance to salt water, weak acids, weak alkalis, alcohol, esters, ketones)

Conduit Glands

Conduit is what you use to protect cable over long runs. It is a tube, a pipe, or a trough that will protect and route your electrical wirings.

The best thing about using it is- it gives absolute protection to your cables from damages due to its exposure from moisture, water, chemicals, dirt, abrasions, and other thing it might get contact with outside.

There are 3 main types namely: Flexible Non-Metallic, Flexible Metallic and EMT conduit. Flexible types are made of materials like PVC, aluminium or steel.

You can use these types of conduit in areas where your cables need to bend along their route/direction. They are made of corrugated materials that will enclose the cables and wire for protection from:

• Water
• Vibration
• Oil
• Long distance corrosives

Flexible Conduit Gland

If you have seen a wire loom, this is how a flexible conduit gland looks like. It can bend and flex as you desire. This is a great choice for you if you are setting up an installation with many turns and uses numerous fittings. It can provide vibration isolation if you want to connect to motors or some other devices which are prone to movements. When choosing a flexible conduit gland, you must put these things in mind:

• Dimensionally accurate
• Easy to dismantle
• Heat resistance
• Sturdy

Conclusion:

DIFVAN factory have a wide range of cable gland: nylon cable gland and brass cable gland.

PG cable gland, M cable gland, MG cable gland in both nylon and brass.

for nylon material: we have PG 7 cable gland, PG9 cable gland, PG11 cable gland, PG13.5 cable gland, PG 19 cable gland, PG 21 cable gland, pg25 cable gland, PG 29 cable gland, PG 36 cable gland, pg42 cable gland, pg48 cable gland and pg63 cable gland.

DIFVAN is focusing on all kinds of wiring accessories for you wire.