Rayphen Armored Cable Gland

Rayphen cable gland armoured type offers high-specification protective cable glands. You can use cable gland armoured cable for specific harsh conditions such as oil exposure, high or extreme temperature ranges, UV exposure, highly corrosive environments, or food and beverage use.

At Rayphen, you can find an armored cable gland that exceeds and meets global specifications for NEC and IEC wiring standards. In line with this, Rayphen armored cable gland also meets international certification requirements.

Rayphen provides a brass armored cable gland and a brass nickel-plated armored cable gland for your specific applications. Armored cable gland is manufactured by Rayphen according to the latest global technical standards. They are available for different types of cable.

Your cable gland armoured cable from Rayphen can be available in different IP waterproof grades, such as IP30, IP66, and IP67. Other grades are available upon your request. Also, you can avail Rayphen armored cable gland in all sizes and grades.

When it comes to cable gland for armored cable, Rayphen is always the right choice. We have rich experience and depth knowledge in manufacturing all types of cable glands that unsurpassed in the market.

Rayphen will be your full-service supplier of all your cable gland needs that are currently used in the industry. At Rayphen, you are ensured with the top-class performance of cable gland for armored cable for an extended period of time.

Contact us today to get a quote for the right cable glands for you.

Armored Cable Gland FAQs-The Ultimate Guide

                                                               Figure 1: Armored Cable Gland

Q1. What Are Armored Cable Glands?

Armored cable glands are glands that are designed specifically for use with SWA (Steel-wirer armored cables). SWA is a power cable type that is designed uniquely for the purposes of the supply of electricity. Examples of armored electrical cables are 11KV cable and 33KV cable types often used in power networks.

Cable glands refer to connectors that seal the ends of cables and also help in securing them to terminals, enclosures, plugs, and other electrical equipment. You’ll mostly find them outdoors in harsh environments, where there are used with various types of cables.

The other role that these connectors play is offering protection to cable ends that they are connected to. They protect these sensitive parts from damage from flammable gas, contamination, and any other agent that’s likely to cause corrosion.

Q2. What Alternative Names Are Used to Refer to Armored Cable Gland?

Cable glands have other alternative names that still refer to them. It is good for you to know them so, you don’t get confused if you hear these names. These other names are:

• Cable connectors
• Cord grips
• Cable fittings
• Cable entry devices

So, if you search online for armored cable glands and you see any of these names, know that they refer to the same product. You’ll most likely find them used interchangeably.

Q3.How Many Types of Armored Cable Glands Are There?

                                                                Figure 2: Different Types of Armored Cable Glands

There are four cable glands types that you’ll find out there in the market. These are:

1. Single compression cable gland: a commonly used type of cable gland in smaller installations and within buildings as well
2. Double compression cable gland: this type is used in applications that require strong seals. So, you’ll often find these glands in power plants and factories.
3. Flexible hose cable gland: it’s the best type of cable for use mainly in those areas that experience relatively high temperatures.
4. PVC cable gland: it is commonly used in cables used as control cables mainly in instrumentation applications

You should also note that some types of cable glands such as the single and double compression glands are in most cases further subdivided.

The additional types that often arise from this sub-division are mainly three namely:

• Weatherproof cable glands
• Light duty cable glands
• Flameproof cable glands

When deploring them for whatever purpose, it is good to make sure that you get the right type. You can seek the help of the manufacturer or ask your technician before purchasing any type. In so doing, you get the assurance that you are acquiring the right type.

Q4. What Does Cable Gland Armoring Mean?

Armoring simply implies adding a steel wire armor to offer mechanical protection to a cable.

It helps boost the strength of the cable. As a result, it can withstand high levels of stress. An armored cable can, therefore, be used underground or externally and it will withstand the pressure from such harsh environments.

Armoring is also often done for cables used as submarine applications. That means they are waterproof and best suited for such areas.

Q5. What Are the Principal Functions of Armored Cable Gland?

Armored cable glands can perform different functions. The most common principal functions that they are often used to perform in different cable installations include the following:

a)Protecting cables from damage

Armored cable glands help in protecting cables from various agents that often cause damage. In most cases, cables face the threat of physical damage both when used indoors and mostly outdoors where they are exposed. So, if such cables do not get protection, they are likely to suffer damage.

b)Preventing cables from being twisted

Twisting can cause several problems either immediately or later. Armored cable glands can help prevent such twisting, especially during installation. They are thus deployed to help prevent cables from being twisted and subsequently damaged.

c)Sealing cables to protect them against water, dust, and dirt

Armored cable glands also act as protection from the damage caused by water, dust, and dirt. These elements are often a threat to cables deployed outdoors. Armored cable glands are, therefore, a perfect solution to seal cables against damage from these agents.

d)Fortifying cables against any kind of strain

Armored cable glands provide the needed support to cables, especially when there is a strain that is likely to cause breaking. So, they are often deployed to help fortify cables to avoid such strain since if it is not done, performance might not be good.

e)Earthing

Armored cable glands in some cases, though rare, can help in earthing cables to help reduce the chances of electrocution.

Q6. What’s the Major Use of Armored Cable Gland?

Armored cable glands are majorly used to reduce the likelihood of cables getting pinched and ultimately damaged.

The additional layer is what adds to the protection. That’s why armored cable glands are a little bit heavier than unarmored cable glands. They are also difficult to bend hence suitable for use in areas that experience damage-causing agents.

If you want to do some cabling work underground or on outdoor walls, use armored cable glands. They are the most suited glands for such places.

Q7. What Are the Constituent Parts of Cable Glands?

Figure 3: Parts of Cable Gland

As illustrated above, cable glands have different parts that include: lock nut, washer, body, seal, claw, and thread-lock/sealing nut parts.

Note that these are the parts of a single compression cable gland. They may slightly vary for double compression or any other type of armored cable glands.

Q8.When Are Armored Cable Glands Used?

In most cases, armored cable glands are used when installing damage-resistant cables. Such is usually the case in power installations.

In such applications, there are often many threats of damage from use and other external factors. Using armored cables is, therefore, intended to help prevent damage.

Q9.What Is the Distinction Between Single Compression and Double Compression Armored Cable Glands?

                                                                Figure 4: Difference between Single and Double Compression Cable Glands

Single and double compression are types of cable glands. But have you ever tried to find out the differences between them? You need to understand them, so you choose the best type.

While, they are both cable glands, the difference between them is mainly with regards to their features, design, and where they are used.

So, here is what each of them does when it comes to application:

a)Single Compression Cable Gland

The design of a single compression cable gland does not feature a cone and a cone ring as well. You can, therefore, utilize it in average climatic conditions. It provides seal to the outer sheath of cables.

Due to the nature of their design, single compression glands are mainly used in small industries and buildings. It is in most cases used for flat types of armored cables.

You’ll find three sub-types of single compression cable glands in the market. These are light-duty, weatherproof, and flameproof types.

b)Double Compression Cable Gland

Double compression cable glands offer support to relatively bulky armored cables entering and leaving the panel. They can, therefore, be utilized in standard climatic environments.

Due to their design and features, double compression cable glands are mainly used in gas, oil, power plants. They are applied for the round type of armored cables. You’ll often find these types deployed in electrical industries.

Like the single compression, the double compression type has three sub-types namely: light-duty, weatherproof and flameproof types.

Q10.What’s the Best Way of Cutting Armored Cable?

The best way to cut armored cable is by the use of cable cutters. These are designed for cutting cables while avoiding any unwanted damage.

However, if you want to make a few cuts on your armored cable glands, using side cutters can help get the job done.

Also, if you completely do not have any other tools, you can use a saw blade. It will still help you get the job done.

Q11. What Is the Unique Characteristic of Armored Cable Gland?

Armored cable glands have a unique characteristic that distinguishes them from their unarmored counterparts.

An added protection layer that prevents damage is a unique feature. The extra layer is what makes them useful outdoors where conditions can be a little bit harsher than in other areas.

Q12.How Do You Install Armored Cable Gland?

                                                          Figure 5: How to Install Armored Cable Glands

Proper installation of armored cable gland should follow these straightforward steps:

Step#1: Open the cable gland to detach the nut

Step#2: Peel the outer sheath to expose the inner armor

Step#3: Insert the gland’s right end into your cable and lay the armor you peeled around the gland

Step#4: Put back the nut carefully and tighten it using a spanner to secure the gland in place

Q13. How Do You Fit An Armored Cable Gland?

You can fit an armored cable gland by following a simple procedure. However, you have to get the right tools that will help you get the job done. So, you will require these tools:

• Wire cutters
• Hacksaw
• Spanners

Once you have them, you just need to follow a few easy steps to do the fitting. These are:

Step#1: Unscrew the cable gland first, then go ahead to slide the different parts into their respective correct orders.

Step#2: strip a small length of the insulation, inner layer, plus the armoring and pull them back. The appropriate length depends on the gland as well as the type of cable that you are using.

Step#3: fit the cone of your cable gland just beneath the cable’s inner insulation plus armoring. You might have to do some splaying of core wires. In the process, be careful to ensure that these do not enter the cone as they can easily cause damage.

Step#4: slide the armor gripping ring upwards.

Step#5: screw back the armor locking nut into the cone while ensuring that you force the armor gripping ring up your cone to trap the wires in place.

Step#6: tighten each part of the gland using a spanner

Step#7: use a sealing nut to seal the back of the gland. It helps compress the inner sealing against the outer insulation to keep the gland watertight.

That’s it! You are done!

Q14.      Does Armored Cable Gland Need Earthing?

                                                                Figure 6: Does Armored Cable Gland Need Earthing?

Yes, the armored cable gland needs earthing. Without it, it is almost impossible to achieve automatic disconnection of the power supply.

You should also note that earthing armored cable gland helps in providing mechanical protection to your installation.

Q15. Is Armored Cable Gland Waterproof?

Yes, since they are mainly used outdoors or in environments that might be damp, high-quality armored cable glands have the feature.

The waterproof feature ensures that they function well and are not damaged easily. You should, however, confirm this feature first since not all armored cable glands are waterproof.

In most cases, both single and double-compression cable glands have a waterproof feature. Some are in fact, called waterproof cable glands.

Q16. What Are the Various Ways of Mounting Cable Glands?

Different cable gland mountings include flanged, nuts, threads, bolted, compound, or adhesive. It all depends on the environment that you use them.

Other additional options include being fire and explosion-proof to provide the needed shield against elements that can cause damage.

Some cable glands can have wire mesh or connections that help in relieving them from unwanted excess strain. They also offer protection against the penetration of oil or water that can cause damage.

Q17. What Are the Material Types Used In Making Armored Cable Gland?

Two types of materials ate commonly used in the making of armored cable glands. These materials are suited for different environments. So, materials can be:

a)     Metal

Armored cable glands made of metallic material are used in many areas of applications. These areas are mainly in the technology and chemical industries. They are characterized by electrical and thermal conductivity. Pros include durability and corrosion resistance.

b)    Plastic

Plastic armored cable glands are mainly used in many areas of applications. Their seal design is what makes them the best and adaptable to many areas of applications. Pros of these glands include resistance to weak acids, saltwater, and grease.

You can use any armored cable gland material, but your application is what determines the best for your use. If you are not sure, seek the help of experts.

Q18.What Special Features Should You Check When Choosing Armored Cable Glands?

In some instances, your environment or kind of application may require you to get special armored cable glands. More specifically, you may need to get special types of glands. So, the special features to check include:

• Explosion-proof feature
• Romex connections for special Romex cables
• Wire mesh for enhanced strain relief
• Fire-proof feature
• Light tight to protect against infiltration by waters/oils
• RFI and EMI shielding features

It might be rare, but in some special instances, your environment might force you to look for special armored gland cables. That’s the time when you need to check all the above special features. You can request to get a customized type of cable from your preferred manufacturers.

Q19.What Questions Should You Ask When Assessing the Quality of Armored Cable Gland?

Getting a high-quality armored cable gland is never an easy task. There are lots of things that you need to check when making your assessment, so you get the best.

Here are the most important questions that you need to ask:

• Is the cable gland you are considering safe for your environment?
• Are there any corrosive agents within the intended area of use?
• What’s the temperature level and is it constant at all times?
• Is the area of application dusty and damp?
• Are you going to use the gland indoors or outdoors?

The answers you have for all these questions will help you narrow down to the best-armored cable gland.

Remember that you need to get something that will perform the intended role and will last long as well.

Q20.How Long Does Armored Cable Gland Last?

The life expectancy of armored depends on many factors. The most important factor that determines lifespan is the environment. If the surrounding area is good, it will last long, but if it’s full of damage-causing agents, it won’t last.

Holding all other factors constant, the underground life expectancy of armored cable glands is between 20 to 50 years. If you put it into intense use, it will be lower, but moderate and safe use extends the lifespan.

Q21.Are There Any Advantages of Using Armored Cable Glands?

The advantages of armored cables include:

• Ability to withstand more than seven times the force that conventional ones cannot withstand
• Substantially larger safety margin compared to other cables
• Enhanced durability, especially in harsher environments
• Better performance in industrial environments
• Advanced mechanical properties
• Temperature resistance

Note, however, that you can only enjoy these benefits if you get high-quality armored cables.

Q22.What Size Armored Cable Gland Do I Need?

The size of the armored cable you get should depend on your intended use. You also need to know the total load (number of watts) when determining the appropriate armored cable length.

Here is an illustration that can help you estimate the right size that will work well for your application.

If you intend to connect your armored cable to a 32A supply, a 6mm cable would be very okay for the job. The wattage would be 44A X 230V = 10,120W, meaning that’s the maximum amount that the cable can take. So, for a 32A it’s 32A X 230V = 7,360 W, hence it is fine since it’s lower than what a 6mm can take.

You can use a similar approach to determine the appropriate length of your armored cable. By all means, try your best not to overload it. It will shorten its lifespan. Performance might not also be great in such instances.

Q23. What Should You Check When Choosing Cable Glands?

If you want to get the best cable glands, you need to check the following essential factors. They determine how you’ll use your gland:

Type of cable plant: Armored cable glands come in different types. While they are all under the same product, there are slight differences in features that make them suitable for use in different areas. So, get a type that is best suited for your intended application. If you are not sure, then ask your manufacturer or technician rather than just pick any type.

Type of mounting: different types of armored cable glands often come with instructions on how to mount them properly. However, note that your intended area of application determines how you are going to mount it. So, always consider the type of mounting featured in the gland that you are considering purchasing for your application.

Pressure rating: it determines the performance of an armored cable gland. Most importantly, the rating dictates where to use and where to avoid using it since different applications have different levels of pressure. You should thus pay attention to the pressure rating of the type of cable gland you are considering.

Minimum and maximum temperatures:  when it comes to operation, different environments experience different temperature ranges. Also, some applications can be too hot while others are moderate. To avoid any unnecessary damages, you need to check the minimum and maximum temperature levels that the armored cable gland you want to use can accommodate.

The size: you’ll find a wide array of sizes of armored cable glands out there. Your intended use or area of application determines the size that is appropriate. You should, therefore, pay attention to the size of the armored cable gland you are considering purchasing.

In a nutshell, you need to take the time to assess the armored cable gland that you are considering purchasing for your application. More specifically, take a look at the features. If you always use these features as your criteria when choosing, you will find the best cable gland that will meet your needs.