In the world of electrical installations, safety and durability are paramount. One of the key components that ensure the reliability and protection of electrical systems is the Armoured Cable Glands. These specialized fittings play a crucial role in securing cables, preventing mechanical damage, and safeguarding electrical connections in hazardous or demanding environments. Armoured cable glands are designed to be used with armoured cables, offering robust protection for both the cable and the equipment to which it is connected.

This guide provides an in-depth look at armoured cable glands, their features, applications, types, and benefits, offering insights into why they are essential for any installation that demands safety, performance, and reliability.

What is an Armoured Cable Gland?

An armoured cable gland is a mechanical device used to securely attach an armoured cable to an electrical enclosure, ensuring a safe and tight connection. The gland is designed to provide strain relief, prevent the ingress of moisture and dust, and protect the cable from external mechanical stress. It is an essential component in safeguarding electrical systems, especially in environments that are prone to physical damage, hazardous materials, or adverse conditions.

The armoured cable gland serves several key functions:

• Strain relief: Prevents the cable from being damaged by tension or movement.
• Sealing: Ensures that water, dust, and other contaminants do not enter the cable or equipment.
• Earthing: Provides grounding for the cable’s metallic sheath, enhancing safety by preventing the build-up of static electricity or faults.
• Mechanical protection: Protects the cable and electrical enclosure from external damage.

Types of Armoured Cable Glands

There are several types of armoured cable glands, each designed to suit specific cable types and applications. Choosing the right type of gland ensures optimal performance and safety for your electrical installation.

1. Brass Armoured Cable Glands

Brass armoured cable glands are among the most commonly used types. These glands are made from high-quality brass, offering excellent durability, corrosion resistance, and conductivity. They are ideal for use in both indoor and outdoor applications, providing reliable protection in environments where mechanical strength and resistance to corrosion are essential.

Brass armoured cable glands are suitable for various industries, including industrial manufacturing, oil and gas, and construction, where heavy-duty protection is required.

2. Stainless Steel Armoured Cable Glands

Stainless steel armoured cable glands provide superior strength and durability, especially in environments exposed to corrosive substances. They are highly resistant to rust and oxidation, making them perfect for offshore, marine, and chemical industries. These glands also offer high resistance to heat, making them ideal for use in high-temperature environments.

In addition to their corrosion resistance, stainless steel glands are also capable of handling higher mechanical stress, making them suitable for harsh industrial conditions.

3. Aluminum Armoured Cable Glands

Aluminum armoured cable glands are lighter than brass and stainless steel variants, yet still offer excellent protection against external mechanical damage. They are often used in areas where weight is a concern but where protection and durability are still required. Aluminum cable glands are also corrosion-resistant, though they may not provide the same level of protection as brass or stainless steel glands in extremely harsh conditions.

These glands are often used in environments such as construction sites, factories, and utility installations where both protection and ease of handling are essential.

4. Polyamide Armoured Cable Glands

For applications that require a more lightweight and cost-effective solution, polyamide armoured cable glands are a great choice. Made from a high-performance thermoplastic polymer, these glands offer excellent electrical insulating properties, mechanical strength, and resistance to wear and tear. They are particularly useful in low to moderate-risk environments.

Polyamide glands are commonly used in telecommunications, control systems, and low-voltage applications.

5. Cable Glands with EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) Features

In environments where electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio frequency interference (RFI) is a concern, EMC cable glands are an essential component. These glands are designed to offer superior shielding against electromagnetic waves, preventing interference that could affect the performance of sensitive electrical equipment. They are typically used in high-tech installations such as data centers, communication facilities, and medical devices.

Applications of Armoured Cable Glands

Armoured cable glands are used in a wide range of industries and applications where electrical safety, durability, and performance are critical. Below are some common areas where these glands are typically installed:

1. Oil and Gas Industry

In the oil and gas industry, armoured cable glands are widely used for electrical systems that are exposed to harsh and hazardous environments. Whether in offshore platforms, drilling rigs, or refineries, these glands provide critical protection for electrical cables against mechanical damage, chemical exposure, and extreme weather conditions. The robust construction of armoured cable glands ensures that cables are securely connected, reducing the risk of equipment failure or fire hazards in explosive environments.

2. Mining Industry

Mining environments are often exposed to extreme physical conditions, including vibration, impact, and exposure to potentially harmful substances. Armoured cable glands are crucial for protecting electrical cables and systems in these environments, ensuring reliable operation and reducing the risk of electrical hazards. Whether used in underground mines or processing plants, these glands provide mechanical protection and safeguard the cable’s integrity.

3. Marine Industry

The marine industry requires equipment that can withstand corrosive sea environments, as well as physical damage from impacts and vibrations. Armoured cable glands made from corrosion-resistant materials such as brass or stainless steel are ideal for these applications, offering durability and reliability in offshore oil rigs, ships, and harbors. The glands ensure that electrical systems remain secure, even in harsh marine conditions.

4. Industrial Manufacturing

In industrial manufacturing facilities, armoured cable glands provide protection to cables and wiring systems in machinery, control panels, and electrical enclosures. They ensure that cables are properly sealed and grounded, preventing damage caused by mechanical stress, moisture, or dust. The glands also help protect electrical equipment from external environmental factors, ensuring the continuous operation of automated machinery and other essential systems.

5. Construction Sites

On construction sites, armoured cable glands are used to protect electrical cables from physical damage caused by impacts, abrasion, or vibration. Whether powering temporary lighting, machinery, or heavy-duty equipment, these glands offer the necessary protection for electrical systems in construction environments.

Advantages of Armoured Cable Glands

Using armoured cable glands provides several key benefits that enhance the safety, durability, and reliability of electrical systems.

1. Protection Against Physical Damage

The most significant advantage of using armoured cable glands is their ability to protect cables from external mechanical damage. The glands prevent cables from being crushed, cut, or exposed to excessive strain, ensuring the longevity and safe operation of electrical systems.

2. Moisture and Dust Protection

Armoured cable glands also provide an essential barrier against moisture, dust, and other contaminants. This helps maintain the integrity of the cable’s electrical insulation and prevents corrosion or damage to internal wiring, especially in outdoor or industrial environments.

3. Grounding and Earthing

Many armoured cable glands feature grounding or earthing capabilities, which provide an additional layer of protection by reducing the risk of electrical shock or fire due to faulty wiring. Proper grounding ensures that any electrical faults are safely directed to the earth, reducing the risk of hazardous conditions.

4. Compliance with Safety Standards

Armoured cable glands meet a variety of international safety standards, such as IEC, ATEX, and UL, ensuring that electrical installations comply with regulations for use in hazardous locations. This ensures that installations are safe and compliant, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring smooth operations.

Conclusion

Armoured cable glands are a crucial component for ensuring the safety, durability, and reliability of electrical systems in environments that demand high-performance protection. From the oil and gas industry to mining, marine, and construction, these glands provide essential protection against mechanical damage, moisture, and electrical faults. By choosing the right type of armoured cable gland for your installation, you can ensure that your electrical systems remain safe and operational, minimizing the risk of failures and enhancing overall system performance.

For high-quality armoured cable glands that meet international standards and provide the best protection for your electrical installations, visit Cabex India.