Everything You Need to Know About Cable Glands

Cable glands are an essential component of any electrical or electronic installation, as they provide a secure and reliable means of transferring power and signals through cables. In addition to their primary function of securing cables, cable glands also protect cables from environmental factors such as dust, water, and other contaminants. When it comes to electrical installations, it’s crucial to select the right type of gland to ensure optimal performance and safety. That’s why it’s essential to consider glands electrical properties and compatibility with the equipment they’re connecting. Let’s dive into the different types of cable glands, their uses, installation, and maintenance.

What are Cable Glands?

Cable glands, also known as cable connectors or cable fittings, are mechanical devices designed to attach and secure the end of a cable to an electrical device or equipment. They are used to prevent the cable from being pulled or twisted, provide strain relief, and protect against dust, dirt, water, and other environmental factors.

How Do Cable Gland Work?

Cable glands work by providing a secure and reliable connection between a cable and an electrical device or equipment. They are designed to attach and hold the end of a cable, preventing it from being pulled or twisted, while also protecting it from environmental factors such as dust, dirt, water, and chemicals.

Cable glands typically consist of two parts: a gland body and a locknut. The gland body has a threaded bore through which the cable is inserted, and a sealing ring or insert to provide a watertight seal. The locknut is used to tighten the gland body around the cable, compressing the sealing ring or insert to provide a secure and watertight connection.

During installation, the cable is prepared by stripping the outer sheath and any armor or shielding layers, then inserted through the gland body and sealing ring or insert. The locknut is then tightened onto the gland body, compressing the sealing ring or insert and securing the cable in place. This creates a tight and secure connection that protects the cable from environmental factors and prevents it from being pulled or twisted.

In addition, some cable glands may also include additional features such as strain relief or grounding. Strain relief is designed to prevent the cable from being damaged or pulled out of the connection due to tension or bending, while grounding is used to protect against electrical surges or static discharge.

Overall, cable glands provide a reliable and secure method of connecting cables to electrical equipment, ensuring that the cable is protected from environmental factors and providing a stable connection that can withstand the rigors of everyday use.

What are the Parts of Cable Glands?

Cable glands, also known as cord grips or cable connectors, are used to secure and protect the end of a cable or wire as it enters an electrical enclosure or device. The parts of a cable gland typically include:

1. Body: The main component of the cable gland, which houses the other parts and provides a connection point for the cable.
2. Nut: The threaded component that screws onto the body and secures the cable in place.
3. Seal: A component that provides a watertight or dust-proof seal around the cable to prevent moisture or particles from entering the enclosure or device.
4. Washer: A flat component that is placed between the nut and the enclosure or device to distribute the pressure and prevent damage to the enclosure or device.
5. Locknut: A second nut that is often used to secure the cable gland in place and provide additional protection against vibration or accidental loosening.
6. Insert: Some cable glands may include an insert that is used to provide additional support and strain relief for the cable.

The specific parts and configurations of cable glands can vary depending on the application and the type of cable or wire being used.

Types of Cable Glands

There are several types of cable glands available in the market, each designed to suit specific applications. Some of the most common types of cable glands include:

• Industrial Cable Glands: Used in industrial settings where there are harsh environmental conditions such as chemicals, moisture, and extreme temperatures.
• Armoured Cable Glands: Used to secure and protect cables that have an outer sheath of steel wire or tape.
• Explosion-proof Cable Glands: Designed to prevent explosions caused by the ignition of hazardous gases or dust particles.
• EMC Cable Glands: Used to prevent electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio frequency interference (RFI) from affecting the cable’s performance.
• ATEX Cable Glands: Specifically designed to comply with the European Union’s ATEX directive for use in potentially explosive environments.

Cable Gland Materials

Cable glands are made from various materials, including plastic, brass, stainless steel, and aluminium. The material used depends on the application, environmental conditions, and the cable type.

Cable Gland Installation

Proper installation of cable glands is crucial to ensure a secure and reliable connection. Before installation, it’s important to select the right type of cable gland that suits the application and cable type. The following are the steps involved in installing a cable gland:

• Prepare the cable by stripping the outer sheath and any armour or shielding layers.
• Insert the cable into the cable gland, making sure it fits snugly.
• Tighten the gland’s locking mechanism until it securely holds the cable.
• Check that the cable gland is properly installed by pulling the cable gently to ensure it doesn’t come loose.

Cable Gland Maintenance

Regular maintenance of cable glands is necessary to ensure their proper functioning and prevent potential failures. Cable glands should be checked regularly for signs of damage, such as cracks or corrosion. The gland’s locking mechanism should be tightened regularly to prevent the cable from becoming loose. Cleaning the cable gland regularly is also important to remove any dust, dirt, or other contaminants that may affect its performance. In addition, conduit adaptors can be used to connect cables to conduit systems to provide additional protection against environmental factors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cable glands are an essential component in any electrical or electronic installation, providing a secure and reliable means of connecting cables to devices and equipment. With the right type of cable gland and proper installation and maintenance, you can ensure a safe and efficient electrical system that meets your needs.