A cable gland, also known as a cord grip, cable strain relief, cable connector, or cable fitting, is a device that attaches and secures an electrical cable to equipment. It provides strain relief and is designed to connect to various types of cables, including those with armour, braid, or metallic sheaths. Cable glands can also seal cables that pass through bulkheads or gland plates.
Cable glands serve multiple purposes including earthing, grounding, bonding, insulation, and strain relief. They effectively seal cables that pass through bulkheads or gland plates, protect against external contaminants like dust and fluids, and contain electrical sparks or flames. Their primary role is to act as a sealing device that safeguards the enclosures of electrical equipment.
The selection of a cable gland is influenced by the installation environment. Important considerations include whether the gland is intended for indoor or outdoor use, exposure to explosive or hazardous environments, and the presence of dust, dampness, or corrosive materials. Cable glands are available in various materials, including metal and plastic. Metal glands are suitable for applications requiring high chemical and mechanical stability, while plastic glands offer resistance to saltwater, weak acids, and grease.
Cable gland mountings can vary and include options such as flanged, bolted, nut, threaded, adhesive, or compound types. Additional features may include fireproof, explosion-proof, and EMI and RFI shielding capabilities to reduce electromagnetic or radio frequency interference. They can also be designed to be liquid-tight to prevent water or oil penetration.
Cable glands are rated by Ingress Protection (IP) Marking, which assesses their design and efficiency in various tasks, with ratings up to IP69K. In Europe, cable glands must comply with the European standard EN50262. It is crucial to check national and international codes of practice to ensure compliance with local regulations, especially in areas near explosive materials.
