Glossary · Electrical engineering and control panels
Cable gland
Also known as: Cable connector (entry), Cord grip
German: Kabelverschraubung
In electrical installation, a cable gland is a device that leads a cable into an enclosure while sealing the entry, relieving strain on the cable and, depending on its type, providing shield contact or explosion protection.
- Control panels
In one sentence
A cable gland leads a cable into an enclosure, seals the entry and relieves strain; EMC and Ex versions exist.
Example
The field cable of the pressure transmitter enters the junction box through an EMC cable gland that contacts the cable shield all around.
How it applies
- Engineering: Choose glands for cable diameter, IP rating, material and application: EMC glands for shield contact, Ex-certified glands for hazardous areas. An unsuitable or badly tightened gland reduces the enclosure's IP rating.
- Installation: Unused entries must be sealed with suitable plugs to maintain the protection degree.
- Documentation: Specify gland types and sizes in the parts list and show entries on enclosure drawings. Installation instructions should state tightening and sealing requirements, especially for hazardous areas, where the certified configuration must be maintained.
- Maintenance: Check glands during inspections for loosening, damaged seals and cracked housings, especially on moving machine parts and in wash-down areas.
Cable gland vs. connector
A cable gland leads a cable permanently into an enclosure. A Connector creates a pluggable connection, which simplifies replacement but adds a potential failure point.