In the world of electrical and industrial installations, Glanding plays an essential role in ensuring safety, performance, and protection. Whether it’s a power plant, refinery, or manufacturing facility, every electrical cable must be properly terminated, secured, and sealed — and that’s exactly what glanding achieves.

What is Glanding?

Glanding refers to the process of attaching and securing a cable gland to the end of an electrical cable to ensure its proper connection to equipment or enclosures. A cable gland acts as a mechanical device that provides strain relief and maintains the integrity of the enclosure. In addition to preventing cable slippage and mechanical stress, glanding helps to protect against dust, moisture, corrosion, and even explosive environments.

In essence, proper glanding ensures that cables remain safe and functional, even under challenging industrial conditions.

Why Glanding is Important

Glanding is not just a mechanical requirement — it’s a safety imperative. Improperly installed cable glands can lead to several problems, such as:

1. Cable damage or pull-out, which can interrupt power supply or communication.

2. Ingress of dust or moisture, leading to corrosion and electrical faults.

3. Reduced explosion protection, especially in hazardous area cable installations where safety standards are critical.

4. Compromised IP ratings, resulting in electrical failures and downtime.

By following the correct glanding process, industries can avoid such risks and ensure long-term operational safety.

The Role of Cable Glands in Hazardous Areas

In industries like oil & gas, chemical plants, and mining, safety is non-negotiable. These environments often contain explosive gases or dust, requiring cables and components that meet stringent safety standards.

This is where hazardous area cable glands come into play. These specialized glands are designed to prevent ignition and maintain the enclosure’s explosion-proof integrity. Certified glands — such as ATEX or IECEx-approved cable glands — are specifically tested to withstand extreme conditions.

When used correctly, they ensure that hazardous area installations remain fully compliant and safe, protecting both equipment and personnel.

Types of Cable Glands

There are several types of cable glands available, depending on the application, cable type, and environmental conditions. Choosing the right type is crucial for effective glanding.

1. Brass Cable Glands

   1. Made from high-quality brass, these glands are durable, corrosion-resistant, and suitable for a wide range of industrial applications.

   2. Commonly used in armoured and unarmoured cables.

2. Nylon Cable Glands

   1. Lightweight and cost-effective, nylon glands are ideal for non-hazardous environments.

   2. They offer good resistance to chemicals and weathering.

3. Stainless Steel Cable Glands

   1. Known for superior corrosion resistance, these are used in marine, food processing, and chemical industries.

   2. Perfect for environments with high moisture or chemical exposure.

4. EMC Cable Glands

   1. Provide protection against electromagnetic interference (EMI).

   2. Commonly used in data and communication applications.

5. Explosion-Proof Cable Glands (Exd/Exe)

   1. Specifically designed for hazardous locations.

   2. Maintain flameproof or increased safety protection for hazardous area cable installations.

Each gland type serves a specific function, and proper selection ensures durability, compliance, and optimal performance.

The Glanding Process: Step-by-Step

Glanding must be done carefully to maintain safety and cable integrity. Here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Cable Preparation:
   Strip the cable carefully without damaging the inner insulation or armour.

2. Gland Assembly:
   Fit the gland components — such as the nut, washer, seal, and body — in the correct order.

3. Insertion:
   Insert the cable into the gland, ensuring it fits snugly to prevent slippage.

4. Tightening:
   Secure the gland using a spanner or wrench to achieve a firm connection without over-tightening.

5. Testing and Inspection:
   Check for alignment, sealing, and torque to confirm proper installation.

When performed correctly, glanding ensures excellent strain relief, environmental protection, and electrical safety.

Glanding for Different Cable Types

Different cable types require different glanding techniques. For instance:

1. Armoured Cables (SWA/AWA): Require glands that can grip the armour to maintain electrical continuity and mechanical strength.

2. Unarmoured Cables: Use glands that rely on sealing rather than armour clamping.

3. Hazardous Area Cables: Must use explosion-proof or flameproof glands that meet certification requirements.

Using the wrong gland type can compromise system integrity and safety — a risk no industry can afford.

Choosing the Right Supplier

Selecting a reliable manufacturer is as important as choosing the right gland type. A trusted supplier ensures that all products comply with international standards such as ATEX, IECEx, and IP ratings.

If you’re looking for high-quality cable glands and glanding accessories, cabexindia offers a wide range of solutions for both hazardous and non-hazardous environments. From brass glands to explosion-proof fittings, Cabex India’s products are engineered for precision, safety, and durability across industries.

Conclusion

Glanding might seem like a small part of an electrical installation, but its impact on safety and reliability is enormous. Proper glanding ensures that cables remain secure, moisture-free, and compliant with safety standards — especially in demanding applications involving hazardous area cable systems.

Whether you’re dealing with industrial automation, oil & gas facilities, or general electrical installations, understanding the types of cable glands and following the correct glanding process will protect your equipment and enhance performance.