Cable Termination and Sealant for Armoured Cables
Appropriate cable management is essential to provide safety and durability to electrical installations, especially in challenging or harsh working conditions; therefore, the Armoured Cable Gland forms an important element of the overall installation. This guide will cover all aspects of Armoured Cable Glands, including how they work, different types, installation techniques, and the materials they are made from, so that you can make an educated decision on which type of Armoured Cable Gland you should use for your project.
Definition of an Armoured Cable Gland
An armoured cable gland is a device that connects (terminates) an armoured cable to an item of electrical apparatus while providing mechanical protection as well as environmental protection to an armoured or flexible cable from damage. The gland serves as a means of anchoring an armoured cable to a piece of electrical apparatus; provides strain relief; provides a ground connection between the cable shield and the gland; and provides a seal between the cable and external elements at the point of entry of the cable into the equipment.
Armoured Cable Glands can be used in a number of applications such as power distribution; industrial machinery; outdoor installations; or hazardous locations where armoured cables require protection from moisture, dust, and mechanical forces. Given the need to protect the cables in the above environments, the oil and gas industry, mining industry, and construction industry often use the Armoured Cable Gland because of its durability and safe operation.
Important Characteristics of Armoured Cable Glands
There are various characteristics that contribute to the Armoured Cable Glands being the preferred option for use in both industrial and outdoor applications:
- Reinforced Mechanical Protection: Heavy-duty mechanical cable protection for use in an extreme environment.
- Waterproofing: Modern designs incorporate waterproof single cable entry glands and waterproof cable gland connectors, making them ideal for use in outdoor installations and cabinets.
- Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel and brass materials improve cable longevity and performance even in difficult industrial locations.
- Cable Gripping Force: Provides resistance to pull forces and reduces the chance for cables to be dislodged.
- Compatibility with Different Cable Types: Can accommodate SWA armoured cable types, along with other types of standard cables by including appropriate accessories.
Types of Armoured Cable Glands
Choosing the correct type of cable glandis very important to provide a secure, efficient installation. The following are the most common types of Armoured Cable Glands:
SWA Armoured Cable Glands
SWA (Steel Wire Armoured) cable glands are the most popular choice for industrial use because they incorporate a tight-sealing mechanism, provide an extremely high degree of pull resistance, and are designed to perform well in heavy-duty environments.
Brass Armoured Cable Glands
Brass armoured cable glands are typically chosen for their high level of corrosion resistance and mechanical strength. These glands are often used in industrial and harsh conditions where conventional steel and steel construction may be susceptible to rusting or corrosion.
Industrial Armoured Cable Glands
Industrial armoured cable glands are designed for compliance with very strict safety standards. They often include additional features such as IP68 waterproof ratings and enhancement for strain relief on large diameter cables.
Waterproof Armoured Cable Glands
Waterproof armoured cable glands provide an airtight seal around the cable when installed properly. Water, dust, and other environmental hazards cannot penetrate this watertight seal and are thus excluded from the cable. Waterproof armoured cable glands are especially important for outdoor applications; without them water from rain, condensation, and other sources can harm the cable. If the installation site presents a challenge due to excessive moisture or humidity, it’s a good idea to choose a standalone waterproof glands cable.
Armoured Cable Connectors
Armoured cable connectors are often known as cable gland connectors; they are designed specifically to add extra mechanical sturdiness and electrical insulation while routing armoured cable. They’re rigid and intended to resist high-impact environments.
What to Think About When Choosing the Correct Armoured Cable Gland?
There are a number of factors that come into play when choosing armoured cable glands. Here are some things to consider:
- Cable Diameter and Gland Size: The best-performing cable glands match the exact diameter of the cable being used; you can find your cable gland size using a sizing guide.
- Material: When selecting material for your cable glands, consider your environment; in corrosive and wet places, use brass or stainless steel. If you need to save money, nickel-plated brass will suffice.
- Sealing Measurement: If you need to protect against water, dust, or other contaminants, you should look for a waterproof glands cable or at IP68-rated glands.
- Application-Specific Requirements: Industries often have wider temperature ranges or require hazardous area approvals, so check that the cable gland will suit your application requirements.
How Do You Install an Armoured Cable Gland Correctly?
Installing your armoured cable gland the right way is key to quality performance and safety. The proper sequence of events for installing an armoured cable gland is:
- Select the suitable gland for your application by determining the gland size and fitting requirements for your cable.
- Remove approximately an inch of the outer sheath of the cable to expose the armour layer.
- Slide the gland parts over the cable (making sure that it is clamped on the armour side to ensure continuity).
- Tighten the gland onto the enclosure and make sure that the connection points are secure.
- Check the seal and test the cable for electrical continuity and insulation resistance.
These procedures will help meet safety standards and ensure a long-lasting installation.
Armoured Gland Material
The material used for your armoured cable gland makes a big difference in its performance and longevity. The following materials are most commonly used:
Brass
Brass is highly durable and corrosion resistant, therefore making it one of the most popular materials for high-performance industrial cable glands.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel makes an excellent material choice for harsh conditions due to its superior ability to resist corrosive and harsh chemicals.
Polyamide/Nylon
Polyamide is a lightweight, low-cost material generally used in low-stress environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Armoured Cable Gland and What Are Its Uses?
An armoured cable gland is an essential component used for attaching and sealing cables securely and protecting them from outside elements, while ensuring electrical continuity in challenging environments. The primary function of an armoured cable gland is to prevent the physical damage caused by an armoured cable from compromising the integrity of the connections.
How to Correctly Install an Armoured Cable Gland?
The steps involved in correctly installing an armoured cable gland include selecting the proper size of the cable, removing enough of the outer sheath to expose the armour of the cable, inserting the components of the cable gland correctly, and connecting them securely to the equipment to guarantee a tight watertight connection that is not exposed to moisture or dust.
What is the Difference Between Armoured and Non-Armoured Cable Glands?
A cable gland is considered armoured when it can be attached to an armoured cable that includes an external metallic shielding, which adds extra protection from mechanical stress, while non-armoured cable glands are used for lighter-duty cables that do not require an external shield.
Is it Vital That Armoured Cable Glands Have a Strict Match with the Diameter of Cable?
It is imperative that you select a proper diameter of the armoured cable gland to ensure optimum performance. If the correct diameter is not selected, it could lead to selection or sealing failure, resulting in poor electrical continuity or slack connection.
What is the Purpose of Cable Gland?
The primary function of a cable gland is to provide a secure connection between the cable and the device that the cable connects to, while providing physical protection from mechanical and environmental stress.
Summary
Choosing the correct armoured cable gland is critical to guaranteeing safety, reliability, and functionality of electrical systems. Choosing an armoured cable gland from a larger selection of cable glands ranging from heavy-duty SWA cable glands to waterproof connectors can be determined by understanding your requirements. This will allow you to make the best choice for your application. The proper selection of the armoured cable gland should match the diameter of the cable, material used, and type of installation to guarantee optimal performance. Following these guidelines will help to increase your electrical installations' life span.