Introduction

Unarmoured cable gland are vital components used in electrical systems to provide secure and safe connections for cables that do not have an additional protective armouring layer. Unlike armoured cables, which come with extra mechanical protection, unarmoured cables rely on cable glands to ensure their secure attachment to electrical equipment, enclosures, and junction boxes, offering strain relief, sealing, and protection against environmental factors.

In this blog post, we will explore the key features, applications, benefits, and types of unarmoured cable glands, providing a comprehensive understanding of why they are crucial for maintaining safety and functionality in various electrical installations. We will also answer five frequently asked questions (FAQs) about unarmoured cable glands to clarify their role and selection.

An unarmoured cable gland is a device used to secure the end of an unarmoured electrical cable, ensuring it is securely connected to an enclosure or piece of equipment. The primary role of the gland is to provide strain relief and environmental protection, preventing any damage to the cable due to tension, mechanical strain, or environmental exposure such as dust or moisture.

These cable glands are specifically designed for unarmoured cables, which lack an extra layer of protection typically found in armoured cables. As a result, unarmoured cable glands must provide additional safeguards, such as sealing against environmental factors, while ensuring that the electrical cable remains securely fastened to the equipment.

Unarmoured cable glands are designed with several critical features to ensure the safe and effective management of electrical cables. These include:

1.      Strain Relief
One of the key functions of an unarmoured cable gland is to provide strain relief, which ensures that the cable does not experience excessive tension or pulling that could damage the connections inside the equipment or enclosure. This is especially important in environments where cables are subject to vibration or movement.

2.      Environmental Sealing
Unarmoured cable glands are often equipped with sealing mechanisms made from materials like neoprene or silicone. These seals protect the cable and the connection point from external elements such as dust, water, oil, or chemicals. This makes them suitable for use in environments with exposure to harsh conditions.

3.      Wide Range of Sizes and Thread Types
Unarmoured cable glands come in various sizes and thread types, including metric (M), British Standard Pipe (BSP), and Panzergewinde (PG) threads. This allows them to be compatible with different types of cables and equipment, making them versatile and adaptable to a wide range of applications.

4.      Non-Corrosive Materials
These glands are typically made from non-corrosive materials such as brass, stainless steel, nickel-plated brass, and sometimes plastic. The choice of material depends on the specific application and environmental conditions, ensuring durability and resistance to corrosion.

5.      Ease of Installation
Unarmoured cable glands are designed for easy installation. They can be quickly fitted to cables and enclosures, ensuring a tight and secure fit without the need for specialized tools. This simplifies the installation process, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

There are several benefits to using unarmoured cable glands in electrical installations. These include:

1.      Improved Cable Protection
Since unarmoured cables lack the mechanical protection offered by armoured cables, using the right gland ensures that the cable is safeguarded from environmental factors and mechanical strain. The gland provides a layer of protection that helps extend the life of the cable.

2.      Versatility Across Applications
Unarmoured cable glands can be used in a wide variety of applications, including domestic, commercial, and industrial environments. Whether for indoor or outdoor installations, these glands are designed to offer the necessary protection and reliability for unarmoured cables.

3.      Cost-Effective Solution
Unarmoured cables are often chosen for cost-sensitive projects because they are less expensive than armoured cables. By using a suitable unarmoured cable gland, you can achieve a safe and secure connection without the need for more expensive armoured cables.

4.      Maintaining System Integrity
Proper installation of unarmoured cable glands helps maintain the integrity of the entire electrical system. By ensuring that the cable remains securely fastened and protected, the risk of electrical failures, short circuits, or damage is significantly reduced.

5.      Flexibility in Design
Unarmoured cable glands come in various sizes, materials, and sealing options, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. This flexibility allows designers and engineers to choose the right gland for their specific needs, ensuring a custom fit for each project.

Unarmoured cable glands are used across many industries and applications, including:

1.      Domestic Electrical Installations
Unarmoured cables are often used in residential settings for internal wiring, lighting, and power distribution. The use of unarmoured cable glands ensures secure connections in wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted equipment.

2.      Commercial Buildings
In office buildings, retail spaces, and commercial facilities, unarmoured cables and glands are used for wiring lighting systems, HVAC systems, and electrical outlets. These glands ensure that cables remain secure and protected in commercial environments.

3.      Data Centers and Telecommunications
In data centers and telecommunications infrastructure, unarmoured cables are often used for low-voltage wiring and communication lines. Unarmoured cable glands help maintain the integrity of these sensitive installations by providing strain relief and protection.

4.      Industrial Automation
In industrial settings, unarmoured cables are frequently used to connect sensors, controllers, and other devices. Unarmoured cable glands are essential for protecting the cable and ensuring a secure connection in these high-vibration environments.

5.      Marine and Offshore Installations
In marine environments, unarmoured cable glands are used to protect electrical connections from exposure to water, salt, and other corrosive elements. These glands are commonly made from corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or nickel-plated brass.

Unarmoured cable glands are typically constructed from materials that offer durability and resistance to corrosion. Some common materials include:

·         Brass
Brass is one of the most commonly used materials for cable glands due to its excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance. It is suitable for most general-purpose applications.

·         Stainless Steel
Stainless steel cable glands are used in harsh environments where corrosion resistance is crucial, such as in marine, offshore, or chemical processing industries.

·         Plastic (Nylon)
Plastic cable glands are often used in applications where electrical insulation and lightweight components are required. They offer a cost-effective solution for non-corrosive environments.

·         Nickel-Plated Brass
Nickel-plated brass glands provide an additional layer of corrosion resistance, making them ideal for use in environments where exposure to chemicals, moisture, or salt is a concern.

1. What is the primary function of an unarmoured cable gland?
The primary function of an unarmoured cable gland is to secure the cable to an enclosure or equipment while providing strain relief and environmental protection. This ensures the integrity and safety of the electrical connection.

2. Can unarmoured cable glands be used outdoors?
Yes, unarmoured cable glands can be used outdoors, provided they are equipped with the necessary seals to protect against environmental factors such as moisture, dust, and temperature fluctuations. Stainless steel or brass glands with proper IP ratings are often used for outdoor installations.

3. How do I choose the right size of an unarmoured cable gland?
To choose the right size, you need to match the cable gland's entry size and thread type to the cable's outer diameter and the enclosure's entry point. Manufacturers provide sizing charts that help you select the correct gland for your specific cable size and application.

4. What materials are best for unarmoured cable glands in corrosive environments?
For corrosive environments, stainless steel or nickel-plated brass cable glands are the best choices due to their excellent resistance to rust, moisture, and chemicals. These materials provide long-lasting protection in harsh conditions.

5. Are unarmoured cable glands reusable?
In most cases, unarmoured cable glands can be reused, provided they are still in good condition and have not been damaged during the previous installation. However, it’s essential to inspect the gland for wear and tear before reusing it in a new installation.

In conclusion, unarmoured cable glands are essential components for securing and protecting unarmoured cables in various electrical installations. By providing strain relief, environmental sealing, and mechanical protection, these glands ensure the safety and reliability of electrical systems across a wide range of industries. Whether for residential, commercial, or industrial use, choosing the right unarmoured cable gland is critical for maintaining the integrity and functionality of your electrical connections.