Improper cable gland installation can lead to damaged cables, water ingress, and safety hazards.
Without following the correct steps, you risk costly downtime, electrical faults, and non-compliance with regulations.
By learning this simple 5-step process to properly prepare the cable, insert it, secure the gland, and verify the installation, you’ll ensure a safe, reliable, and regulation-compliant setup every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Cable
Before installing a cable gland, ensure the cable is properly prepared:
- Strip the cable sheath to the appropriate length per the gland manufacturer’s specifications. This exposes the inner conductors or cores.
- If applicable, strip the insulation from the individual conductors to the specified length for termination.
- For armored or shielded cables, cut back and trim the armor or shield according to the gland requirements. Ensure no sharp edges remain that could damage the gland seal.
- Clean the exposed cable components to remove any dirt, oil, or debris that could interfere with a proper seal.
Step 2: Insert the Cable
With the cable prepared, insert it through the cable gland components:
- Disassemble the cable gland, which typically includes the entry component, sealing ring, compression ring, and back nut. Lay out the parts in order of assembly.
- Slide the cable through the entry component, ensuring it fits snugly in the aperture. The cable sheath should protrude slightly into the enclosure or junction box.
- Place the sealing ring and compression ring over the cable sheath, pushing them flush against the entry component.
- Slide on the back nut, threading it loosely onto the entry component. Do not tighten fully yet.
Step 3: Secure the Gland
Once the cable is inserted, secure the gland to seal around the cable sheath:
- While holding the cable in position, tighten the back nut onto the entry component using a wrench. Refer to the manufacturer’s torque specifications to avoid under- or over-tightening.
- As the back nut is tightened, the compression ring squeezes the sealing ring, causing it to seal around the cable sheath and against the entry component.
- Continue tightening until the gland is fully secured and an IP-rated seal is achieved between the cable and the gland.
- Ensure the cable armor or shield, if present, is properly seated and in contact with the gland for electrical continuity.
Step 4: Apply Thread Sealant (Optional)
For added protection in demanding environments, apply thread sealant to the gland-to-enclosure connection:
- Select a thread sealant compatible with the gland material and application, such as PTFE tape or pipe dope.
- Apply the sealant to the threads of the gland’s entry component, following the product instructions for application method and coverage.
- Screw the gland into the enclosure or junction box, tightening to the specified torque. The thread sealant helps achieve an IP-rated seal between the gland and the enclosure.
Step 5: Verify the Installation
Finally, verify the gland installation to ensure proper sealing and strain relief:
- Visually inspect the gland to confirm it is properly tightened and seated against the enclosure.
- Check that the cable sheath is securely gripped by the sealing ring and that no gaps are visible.
- Gently tug on the cable to verify the gland provides effective strain relief and prevents the cable from slipping or twisting.
- If applicable, ensure any cable armor or shielding is properly bonded to the gland for electrical continuity.