Simply put, cable glands are important devices that are designed to ensure a whole lot of functions when it comes to the entry of cables in any electrical equipment. Some of the functions that they perform include:
- Sealing
- Earthing
- Insulation
- Strain Relief
- Overall integrity of enclosure
When it comes to gland selection, there are a wide variety of glands available. The choice of gland, however, needs to be made on the basis of a whole lot of factors such as the type of cable, size, ingress protection required and more.
Today there is a wide range of glands available, including:
- Brass Indoor Type Gland
- Brass Outdoor Type Gland
- Brass Straitening Unarmored Cable Gland
- Brass Weather Proof Gland
- PG Threaded Gland:
- Industrial Type Gland
The most commonly used glands include Brass Single Compression Cable Glands and Brass Double Compression cable glands. Let us look at the difference between the two in some detail:
Difference between Single Compression Cable Glands and Double Compression Cable Glands
A single compression gland, essentially offers grip or compression at one place, namely the cable armour. As such, it does not fully protect the entry of moisture and corrosive vapour. Single compression glands are typically used for light armoured cables. On the other hand, in a double compression gland, the compression offered is both at the cable armour and the inner sheath. With the double sealing offered, it protects the cable against moisture thus rendering it largely weather proof. Double compression glands are therefore used to support heavy armoured cables.
Components of Single Compression and Double Compression Glands
Let us also look at the parts that make up single and double compression glands.
Single Compression Cable Glands
Single compression glands comprise of gland body, gland body nut, neoprene rubber seal, rubber washer, check nut and flat washer. Let us look at the specific functions of some of these parts in some detail:
- Flat washer
Besides offering a flawless bearing surface, importantly, it also distributes fastener load.
- Lock nut
It ensures that a nut once installed does not become loose and stays in place.
- Rubber washer
Essentially while helping avoid vibration, it also lowers noise levels significantly.
- Neoprene rubber seal
The big advantage of this rubber seal is that it resists oxidation, ozone as also many petroleum derivatives.
Double Compression Cable Glands
Double compression glands, in addition to these also comprise of cone and cone ring, which are absent in single compression glands. Here are the specific uses of some of the components of double compression cable glands.
- Compression Seal Fitting
Essentially this is used to close elements such as a tube, pipe, wire, cable or conductor.
- Armor Clamping Ring & Armor Clamping Cone
The cone and ring are absolutely imperative as they bring about a high level of reliability as they tighten the metal-to-metal surface.
- Washer
Essentially a sealing washer at the equipment-gland entry interface provides protection. Of course the use of the sealing washer will depend on several factors such as its ingress protection rating, the entry holes as well as the code of protection of the equipment.
Usage of Cable Glands
As far as the usage of the single and double compression glands is concerned, it is to a large extent dependent on the area in which it is used. For example, in the oil and gas sector, where there is presence of hydrocarbons, double compression glands are recommended for usage. This is on account of the fact that the cable gland will ensure that in case of any explosion no flame will be able to escape. These glands are also useful where the requirement is for glands to be dustproof, waterproof and weatherproof.
On the other hand, in areas where there is no fire hazard, it is safe to use single compression glands. Additionally, single compression cable glands are fit to use in average climatic conditions, although in addition with PVC shrouds, they can also be used in corrosive settings.
Essentially, therefore, armed with a fair understanding of the relative merits and demerits of single and double compression cable glands, you can ensure that you make the right choice in ensuring the overall integrity of the enclosure.
We manufacture & distribute a range of Cable Glands that are being used successfully used in a wide variety of industries. Some of the industries that we cater to include oil refineries, food industry, petrochemical, water treatment, mines and quarries and many others.
With over three decades of experience in the industry, we take great pride in being able to offer bespoke cable glands solutions for a range of highly complex applications. Request for a quick quote to get a wide range of Industrial Cable Glands!