Getting a Grip On Cable Management Terminology

In our highly electronic and digitized world, cords, wires, and cables of all sizes and capacities are ubiquitous. Dependable cable management performance is essential for cords and cables to provide power transmission, data transfer, networking, and more without damage. Since they are used in a diverse range of environments, cable glands with unique characteristics are required to assure reliable, fail-safe connectivity.

It is easy to take cable management for granted by overlooking the unique application demands that affect their performance. These essential components are engineered and designed with specific characteristics such as the ability to perform in harsh, abrasive environments, under water, and in extreme temperatures. Successful electronic and digital processes require the right cable gland for the application.

Specifying the right cable gland for a given application and environment begins with an understanding of cable gland terminology.

Cord Grips, Cable Glands, and Strain Relief Connectors

Throughout the electronics industry, cable management can be identified as cord grips, cable glands, and strain relief connectors. While the different names may imply different functions, the function of each of these is basically the same and is just a different name for the same type of product. The job of a cable gland is to protect cables and wires from pulling out and causing damage, and also to protect anything that is passing through the cord, from one side to the other. 

While the various types of cable glands are largely interchangeable, the terms used to describe them differ, causing confusion for those who are not well acquainted with the industry. In many cases, the term used to describe a cable gland will allude to the attributes it possesses. For example, 

• The term “cord grip” is often used to describe how the cable gland is designed to grip the cable tightly, preventing it from slipping out of the enclosure. 
• The term “cable gland” may be used to describe a style of product that are used in industrial and outdoor applications that require protection. They are designed to provide a watertight or dust proof seal to protect the enclosure and its contents from environmental factors.
• The term “strain relief” may be applied to a cable gland that is designed to provide a strain-free connection to a cable. It is anchored securely to an enclosure or device, keeping it from being pulled out or damaged due to tension or strain on the cable.

Consider Cable Characteristics When Specifying Cable Glands

Understanding that all cable glands provide the same basic function regardless of the terminology used, means the next step in determining the type of cable gland you need will involve looking at the nature of your application and what attributes are required of the equipment being used. But not all cable glands are designed and manufactured the same and quality and reliability is key to ensure performance of your application.

At Sealcon, we offer cable gland with a variety of important characteristics that assure dependable operation in virtually any application:

Pull Out Resistance and Cable Protection 

Overlapping clamping splines apply concentric pressure to seal and cable, preventing the form seal from being pulled out of the fitting. This ensures pull-out protection without cable damage. 

Submersible

The patented recess and high performance form seal (grommet) guarantees NEMA 4x & 6 (IP68 / IP69K) at 150 PSIG (10 bar) pressure rating. 

Rugged Construction

The self locking ACME thread prevents the dome or flex nut from being pulled out under extreme lateral force. 

Liquid Tight

Molded O-Ring groove with O-Ring results in a liquid tight seal between Fitting and Installation.

Outdoor / UV Exposure

Ideal for outdoors, our black Nylon Strain Relief Fittings are made with a UL f1 (746C) UV & ozone stable material and ACME thread.

Anti-Vibration

Sealcon Cable Strain Relief Fittings feature a safety ratchet system that includes notches molded into the dome nut to prevent the dome from coming loose from the connector body. 

Advantages of Sealcon Products 

Once you have identified the right cable gland for your process, you will need to find the right supplier to reliably meet your needs with quality products and the support you need for a successful application. Whatever the job, Sealcon offers a cable management product that will meet and exceed expectations with the following advantages:

• UL Ratings
• Black Nylon with ULF1 UV Protection – Sealcon Exclusive
• IP68 Submersion Rating – Up to 300 ft
• Metric, NPT, PG
• Wide Range of In-Stock Sizes – over 6,000 to choose from
• Ready to Ship
• Technical Assistance

Trust Sealcon for high quality, reliable cord grips, cable glands, and strain relief connectors that meet the demands and challenges of your most demanding applications. We’ll get you the connectors you need on time and within budget. Contact us to discuss your project and get a free quote.