In industrial and commercial environments, cable management is not just about organization—it’s about safety, reliability, and compliance. One of the most crucial components that ensures all three is the Armoured cable gland. This small but powerful device plays an essential role in securing armoured cables, protecting them from environmental challenges, and ensuring safe electrical continuity.
If you work in industries like oil and gas, construction, manufacturing, or power distribution, understanding how armoured cable glands work and why they are necessary can help you make smarter, safer choices for your installations.
What Exactly Is an Armoured Cable Gland?
An armoured cable gland is a mechanical fitting designed to terminate and secure armoured cables to enclosures, junction boxes, or electrical equipment. Armoured cables, known for their steel wire or tape covering, are robust and capable of withstanding tough conditions. But without a gland, they cannot be properly terminated or sealed.
The gland ensures:
- Proper mechanical support.
- Sealing against dust, water, and chemicals.
- Electrical continuity for grounding.
- Strain relief, preventing cable pullout or movement.
Why Armoured Cable Glands Are Non-Negotiable
Skipping the use of glands in installations involving armoured cables is risky. Here’s why they’re indispensable:
- Safety Assurance
Loose or unprotected cables can lead to electrical faults, short circuits, or even fire. Glands keep them firmly secured. - Environmental Protection
Designed to resist moisture, dust, and extreme temperatures, glands are ideal for harsh environments. - Compliance and Standards
Electrical codes worldwide require proper cable termination using glands. - Extended Cable Life
By reducing wear and tear, glands help cables last longer, cutting down on maintenance costs.
Different Types of Armoured Cable Glands
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all gland. Each type is suited for a specific environment or application:
- BW Glands – Suitable for indoor installations, providing mechanical retention and grounding.
- CW Glands – Designed for outdoor environments, offering superior sealing and weather resistance.
- A1/A2 Glands – Commonly used with unarmoured cables but sometimes paired with armoured setups.
- Flameproof/Explosion-Proof Glands – Certified for hazardous areas like petrochemical plants where sparks must be avoided.
Materials Used in Armoured Cable Glands
The choice of material matters greatly:
- Brass – Highly durable, corrosion-resistant, and most widely used in industrial environments.
- Stainless Steel – Provides maximum resistance against corrosion and extreme temperatures.
- Aluminium/Nylon – Lightweight and cost-effective, best for lighter applications.
👉 Tip: Always choose the gland material based on your installation’s environment to avoid premature failure.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing an Armoured Cable Gland
- Cable Size and Type
Confirm the gland fits the exact size and type of armoured cable you are using. - Installation Environment
Outdoor or indoor? Wet, dusty, or hazardous conditions? Select glands designed for those conditions. - Certifications
Look for compliance with international standards like ATEX, IECEx, or IP ratings for reliability. - Ease of Use
Select glands that are easy to install and maintain without compromising safety. - Trusted Supplier
Source from reliable manufacturers to ensure consistent quality and performance.
Practical Tips for Installing Armoured Cable Glands
- Prepare the Cable Properly – Strip the cable carefully to avoid damaging the armour.
- Fit Components in Order – Follow the gland manufacturer’s step-by-step assembly process.
- Tighten Securely – Over-tightening can damage the cable; under-tightening risks loosening.
- Test Grounding – Ensure continuity if the gland is being used for earthing.
- Inspect Regularly – Check glands periodically in harsh environments to ensure long-term reliability.
Where Are Armoured Cable Glands Used?
Armoured cable glands are vital in:
- Oil and gas plants.
- Power distribution networks.
- Construction projects.
- Data centers and telecom facilities.
- Manufacturing industries.
In each case, glands ensure that cables remain safely connected and protected, even under extreme stress or environmental hazards.
Why Cabex India Is the Right Choice
For high-quality armoured cable glands, one name you can trust is Cabex India. As a leading manufacturer and supplier, Cabex India offers:
- A wide selection of durable, precision-engineered glands.
- Compliance with international safety and quality standards.
- Solutions for both industrial and hazardous environments.
- Trusted expertise and customer-first service.
By sourcing from Cabex India, you’re not just buying glands—you’re investing in long-term safety and performance.
Conclusion
The armoured cable gland may look like a small fitting, but its role in protecting cables and ensuring safe, reliable installations is enormous. From securing cables in place to shielding them from environmental hazards, these glands are indispensable in industries that rely on uninterrupted power and safety.
If you’re looking for tested and trusted armoured cable glands, explore the range at Cabex India today. With their proven expertise and commitment to quality, you can be confident your installations will stand strong against any challenge.
