Armoured cable glands , also known as cable glands or cable fittings, are mechanical devices that fasten and seal cables as they enter electrical equipment or enclosures. These glands provide several functions, including:

• Armoured cable glands safeguard cables and equipment from environmental hazards such as moisture, dust, and mechanical damage.
• They provide strain relief by firmly keeping the cable in place, reducing tension or movement that could damage the conductors or connections.
• Armoured cable glands frequently feature earthing arrangements, which aid in the breakdown of electrical currents and lessen the risk of electric shock or equipment damage.

What are the benefits of Armoured cable?

The benefits of armoured cables include:

• Armoured cables provide strong protection against physical damage such as abrasion and impact.
  
• They have a longer service life since they are resistant to wear and strain as well as environmental variables.
• Armoured cables can endure moisture, chemicals, and temperature fluctuations better than unarmoured cables.
• Mechanical protection lowers the danger of electrical problems and improves overall safety.
• Specialised terminations ensure secure, watertight connections and prevent moisture infiltration.
• They are available in a variety of configurations to suit a wide range of applications, from power distribution to communication networks.
• Despite the protective layers, armoured wires are flexible and can be easily routed.

Types of Armoured Cable Glands:

Armoured cable glands come in various types, each designed for specific cable constructions and applications:

1. Brass Cable Glands: These are the most popular armoured cable glands, which are commonly used with steel-wire armoured (SWA) cables. They are made of brass for durability and corrosion resistance, with a compression seal to ensure a watertight connection.

2. Stainless Steel Cable Glands: Stainless steel cable glands are ideal for severe settings where corrosion is a concern. They provide improved rust and corrosion resistance. They are suited for outdoor and maritime applications.

3. Nylon Cable Glands: Nylon cable glands are a lightweight, low-cost alternative to metal glands. They are commonly employed in interior applications where corrosion resistance is not a significant concern.

Armoured Cable vs Unarmoured Cable:

The installation's individual needs determine whether armoured or unarmoured cables should be used.

Armoured Cable: Armoured cables have additional layers of protection, such as steel wire armour (SWA) or steel tape armour (STA). These armoured layers offer superior mechanical protection, making them ideal for outdoor, underground, or industrial applications where the cable is subjected to physical threats or environmental stressors.

Unarmoured Cable: Unarmoured cables do not have the additional protective layers that armoured cables do. While unarmoured cables are often more flexible and easier to install, they can be damaged by external sources such as abrasion, crushing, or rodent assaults. They are frequently employed in indoor or less demanding locations where mechanical protection is not a top priority.

Specifications and Applications of an Armoured Cable:

When choosing armoured cable glands, it is critical to evaluate a variety of parameters to ensure functionality and performance. Key specifications to check for are:

• Cable Size Compatibility: Make sure that the gland is appropriate for the diameter of the cable being used.
• Thread Size: The gland's thread size should correspond to the entry thread of the equipment or inclosure.
• Check the Ingress Protection (IP) rating to ensure the gland is suitable for the required environment (e.g., IP68 for submersion in water).
Material: Select a gland material (such as brass, stainless steel, or nylon) that meets the application's durability, corrosion resistance, and conductivity requirements.

Armoured cable glands find applications across various industries, including:

• In power distribution networks, they connect cables to transformers, switchgear, and distribution panels.
• Armoured cable glands offer dependable cable entrance solutions for motors, pumps, and other industrial machinery.
• Oil and Gas: Armoured cable glands provide safe and secure cable terminations in hazardous locations such as oil refineries and offshore platforms.

Is Armoured cable waterproof ?

Armoured cables are not naturally waterproof. However, the presence of armour, which is commonly formed of steel wire or tape, adds mechanical protection to the cables, making them more resistant to external elements including moisture, dust, and physical damage.

Pioneer Powers International , a leading manufacturer of electrical solutions, provides a variety of armoured cable glands to fulfil the different requirements of electrical systems. Their double compression brass cable glands, which are featured on our website, demonstrate the industry's commitment to quality, performance, and dependability. These glands, with characteristics like double compression seals and corrosion-resistant construction, are a reliable choice for fastening and sealing cables in harsh situations.

Finally, armoured cable glands are critical to ensure the safety, dependability, and lifespan of electrical installations. Understanding the Armoured cable types, specifications, and applications of these glands allows electrical experts to make more informed decisions when selecting and installing cable management solutions. Armoured cable glands are essential components of modern electrical systems, whether they safeguard cables in severe industrial environments or ensure reliable power distribution in commercial buildings.