Cable glands, while often overlooked, are critical components in any machinery installation. Selecting the wrong type of cable gland can lead to serious issues such as equipment failure, safety hazards, and non-compliance with regulations.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various types of cable glands available, their applications, and key factors to consider when choosing the right one for your specific needs.

Cable Gland Types by Design
Single Compression Cable Glands
Single compression cable glands are the most basic and widely used type. They feature a single seal that compresses around the outer sheath of the cable when the gland is tightened. This design provides a secure, watertight seal and strain relief for the cable.
Single compression glands are suitable for a wide range of applications, including general industrial use, and are available in various materials such as brass, stainless steel, and plastic.
Double Compression Cable Glands
Double compression cable glands offer an additional level of sealing and strain relief compared to single compression designs. These glands feature two separate seals: one that compresses around the outer sheath of the cable, and another that seals the inner conductors or armor. This dual sealing system provides enhanced protection against ingress of water, dust, and other contaminants.
Double compression glands are ideal for harsh environments, outdoor applications, and situations where an extra level of security is required.
Armored Cable Glands
Armored cable glands are specifically designed for use with armored cables, which have an additional layer of mechanical protection around the inner conductors. These glands have a unique clamping mechanism that securely grips the armor layer, providing excellent strain relief and preventing the armor from twisting or pulling out of the gland.
Armored cable glands also incorporate seals to prevent ingress of contaminants, making them suitable for demanding industrial and outdoor applications.
Unarmored Cable Glands
Unarmored cable glands are designed for use with unarmored cables, which do not have an additional layer of mechanical protection. These glands rely on compression seals to provide strain relief and protection against ingress of contaminants.
Unarmored cable glands are available in single and double compression designs, offering different levels of sealing performance. They are widely used in general industrial, commercial, and indoor applications where armored cables are not required.

Cable Gland Types by Application
Industrial Cable Glands
Industrial cable glands are built to withstand the harsh conditions commonly found in industrial settings such as factories, warehouses, and manufacturing plants. These glands are typically made from robust materials like brass, stainless steel, or high-grade plastics to provide durability and resistance against mechanical stress, vibrations, and corrosive substances.
Industrial cable glands often feature enhanced sealing mechanisms to prevent the ingress of dust, dirt, and liquids, ensuring the integrity of electrical connections. They may also incorporate additional features like strain relief, EMC shielding, or explosion-proof design depending on the specific industrial application requirements.
Marine Cable Glands
Marine cable glands are specifically designed for use in marine environments, both above and below the waterline. These glands are manufactured from corrosion-resistant materials such as marine-grade stainless steel or brass with nickel plating to withstand the harsh saltwater conditions.
In addition to providing excellent resistance against corrosion, marine cable glands offer superior waterproofing capabilities. They often feature multiple sealing points, O-rings, and special gland designs to prevent water ingress and maintain watertight integrity even under high pressure conditions encountered in deep-sea applications.
Marine cable glands may also incorporate strain relief mechanisms to protect cables from mechanical stresses caused by the constant motion and vibration in marine environments.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Cable Glands
The choice between indoor and outdoor cable glands depends on the environmental conditions the electrical installation will be exposed to. Indoor cable glands are suitable for use in dry, sheltered locations with no exposure to the elements. These glands provide basic protection against dust and minor liquid spillages.
On the other hand, outdoor cable glands are designed to withstand exposure to environmental factors like rain, snow, UV radiation, and temperature fluctuations. They offer higher IP ratings for water and dust protection, ensuring the integrity of electrical connections in outdoor installations. Outdoor glands are commonly made from UV-stabilized materials to prevent degradation due to prolonged sun exposure. They may also feature additional sealing elements to prevent the ingress of moisture and contaminants.

Cable Gland Types by Functionality
Explosion-Proof (Ex) Cable Glands
Explosion-proof cable glands, also known as Ex cable glands, are designed for use in hazardous areas where there is a risk of explosive atmospheres. These glands prevent the propagation of flames or explosions from inside the enclosure to the outside environment.
Ex cable glands feature flameproof sealing and are designed to contain and cool any gases that may escape during an explosion, preventing the ignition of the surrounding atmosphere. They are certified according to specific explosion protection standards like ATEX, IECEx, or NEC for use in different hazardous zones.
EMC Cable Glands
EMC (Electromagnetic Compatibility) cable glands are designed to provide shielding against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). These glands incorporate conductive materials or special shielding components to create a continuous 360-degree shield around the cable.
EMC cable glands help in maintaining the integrity of sensitive electronic equipment by preventing the ingress or egress of electromagnetic interference. They are commonly used in telecommunications, medical equipment, and military installations.
Fire-Stop Cable Glands
Fire-stop cable glands are designed to maintain the fire resistance rating of walls or barriers through which cables pass. These glands incorporate intumescent materials that expand when exposed to high temperatures, sealing off the cable entry point and preventing the spread of fire.
Fire-stop cable glands are rated according to their fire resistance duration, typically ranging from 30 minutes to 4 hours. They help in containing fires, reducing the risk of fire propagation, and maintaining the integrity of fire-rated compartments in buildings.
Waterproof Cable Glands
Waterproof cable glands provide superior protection against water ingress in both indoor and outdoor applications. These glands are designed with enhanced sealing mechanisms like multiple O-rings, special gland designs, and high compression seals to prevent water penetration.
Waterproof glands are rated according to their IP (Ingress Protection) rating, which indicates the level of protection against solid objects and liquids. Common waterproof ratings include IP66, IP67, and IP68, with each offering progressively higher levels of water protection.
Electric Cable Glands
Electric cable glands are specifically designed for use with electrical cables in power transmission and distribution applications. These glands provide secure cable termination, strain relief, and sealing to protect the electrical connections from environmental factors.
Electric cable glands are available in various sizes to accommodate different cable diameters and are rated for specific voltage ranges. They are commonly made from insulating materials like plastic or rubber to provide electrical isolation and prevent short circuits.
Flexible Cable Gland
Flexible cable glands, also known as conduit glands or cord grips, are designed to provide strain relief and protection for flexible cables or cords. These glands accommodate cables that require frequent movement or flexing without causing damage.
Flexible cable glands feature a compression seal that grips the outer jacket of the cable, preventing it from being pulled out of the gland. They also provide a degree of bend radius control to prevent kinking or excessive bending of the cable.
Breathable Cable Gland
Breathable cable glands, also known as ventilation glands or pressure equalization glands, are designed to allow air flow and pressure equalization between the inside and outside of an enclosure. These glands prevent the buildup of condensation or pressure differentials that can damage the enclosure or its contents.
Breathable cable glands typically incorporate a breathable membrane or a pressure equalization valve that allows air to pass through while preventing the ingress of water, dust, or contaminants. They are commonly used in outdoor enclosures, telecommunications equipment, and electronic devices.
Strain Relief Cable Glands
Strain relief cable glands are designed to prevent mechanical stress and strain on cables at the point of entry into an enclosure. These glands grip the cable securely, absorbing any mechanical forces and preventing them from being transmitted to the cable terminations or equipment inside the enclosure.
Strain relief glands are particularly important in applications where cables are subject to frequent movement, vibration, or tension. They help in maintaining the integrity of the electrical connections and preventing cable damage or disconnection.

Cable Gland Types by Shape
Straight Cable Glands
Straight cable glands are the most common type, featuring a cylindrical body with a threaded entry on one end and a seal or grommet on the other to secure and seal the cable. They provide a direct, in-line cable entry and are suitable for most general-purpose applications where space is not limited.
90 Degree Cable Glands
90 degree or right-angle cable glands have a curved body that allows the cable to enter at a 90-degree angle relative to the threaded entry. This design is useful in applications where space is limited or where a right-angle cable entry is required to avoid sharp bends or kinks in the cable. 90 degree glands are commonly used in confined spaces, such as junction boxes or control panels.
Cable Gland Thread Types
Metric Threads
Metric threads are the most widely used thread type for cable glands globally. They are defined by the nominal size of the thread in millimeters (e.g., M20, M25) and the pitch, which is the distance between adjacent threads. Metric threads provide a secure, standardized connection and are compatible with most European and Asian equipment.
PG (Panzer-Gewinde) Threads
PG threads, short for Panzer-Gewinde, are a German standard for threaded cable entries. They are defined by the nominal size of the thread (e.g., PG7, PG9) and are commonly used in industrial applications, particularly in Europe. PG threads have a trapezoidal thread form and are gradually being phased out in favor of metric threads.
NPT (National Pipe Tapered) Threads
NPT threads are a U.S. standard for tapered pipe threads, commonly used in North American industrial applications. They are defined by the nominal pipe size in inches (e.g., 1/2″ NPT, 3/4″ NPT) and feature a tapered thread that provides a tight, waterproof seal when properly installed. NPT threads are not interchangeable with metric or PG threads.
NPS (National Pipe Straight) Threads
NPS threads, also known as NPSM (National Pipe Straight Mechanical) threads, are a straight thread version of the NPT standard. They have the same nominal sizes as NPT threads but feature a straight thread form instead of a taper. NPS threads are less common than NPT and are typically used in applications where a tapered thread is not required.
Mixed Threads
Some cable glands feature mixed thread types, combining two or more thread standards in a single gland. For example, a gland may have a metric thread on the cable entry side and an NPT thread on the equipment side. Mixed thread glands provide flexibility in connecting to different types of equipment and can simplify installation in applications where multiple thread standards are used.

Cable Gland Types by Standards
Type A Cable Glands
Type A cable glands are designed for unarmored cables and provide a seal around the outer sheath of the cable. They are further divided into subtypes based on their sealing and clamping mechanisms:
- Type A1: Single compression seal, no inner seal on the cable
- Type A2: Double compression seal, with an inner seal on the cable
- Type A3: Single compression seal with a gland shroud for additional protection
- Type A4: Double compression seal with a gland shroud
Type B Cable Glands
Type B cable glands are designed for armored cables and provide a seal around the inner bedding of the cable. They feature a compression seal and an armor clamping mechanism to secure the cable armor.
Type C Cable Glands
Type C cable glands, also known as conduit glands, are used to terminate conduit or flexible metallic tubing. They provide a seal around the conduit and may include a grounding or bonding device.
Type D Cable Glands
Type D cable glands are designed for unarmored cables and provide a seal around the individual conductors or cores of the cable. They are further divided into two subtypes:
- Type D1: Seal around individual conductors using a compression seal
- Type D2: Seal around individual conductors using a resin or compound fill
Type E Cable Glands
Type E cable glands are suitable for both armored and unarmored cables. They are designed to maintain the integrity of the cable during and after a fire. Type E glands are divided into two subtypes:
- Type E1: Fire-resistant glands for indoor use
- Type E2: Fire-resistant glands for outdoor use, with additional water ingress protection

Cable Gland Types by Waterproof Degrees
The ingress protection (IP) rating system classifies the degree of protection provided by enclosures, including cable glands, against solid objects, dust, accidental contact, and water. The last two digits of the IP code indicate the level of protection against liquid ingress.
IP66 Cable Gland
IP66-rated cable glands provide complete protection against dust ingress and strong water jets from any direction. They are suitable for applications where the equipment may be subject to powerful water jets during cleaning or in its normal operating environment. IP66 glands are often used in industrial settings, such as food processing plants, where high-pressure washdowns are common.
IP67 Cable Gland
IP67 cable glands offer the same level of dust protection as IP66 glands but with additional protection against the effects of temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. These glands are ideal for applications where the equipment may be subject to temporary submersion, such as in flood-prone areas or marine environments.
IP68 Cable Gland
IP68-rated cable glands provide the highest level of water protection, withstanding continuous submersion in water under pressure for extended periods. The exact conditions (depth and duration) are specified by the manufacturer. IP68 glands are used in submersible pumps, marine applications, or underwater lighting systems.
IP69 Cable Gland
IP69-rated cable glands are designed to protect against high-pressure, high-temperature water jets. They are tested using water pressures of 80-100 bar and temperatures of 80°C. IP69 glands are used in applications where equipment is subjected to intensive cleaning with high-pressure steam jets, such as in the food, pharmaceutical, or automotive industries.
Cable Gland Material
Metal Cable Glands
- Brass: Brass cable glands offer good mechanical strength, electrical conductivity, and moderate corrosion resistance. They are suitable for general-purpose indoor and outdoor applications. However, brass may not be suitable for environments with high levels of ammonia or in marine settings due to its susceptibility to stress corrosion cracking.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel cable glands provide excellent mechanical strength, corrosion resistance, and durability. They are ideal for harsh environments, such as marine, chemical, or food processing industries. Stainless steel glands are also suitable for hygienic applications due to their smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces.
- Aluminum: Aluminum cable glands are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and offer good mechanical strength. They are often used in applications where weight is a concern, such as in aerospace or transportation industries. However, aluminum glands may not be suitable for environments with high levels of chlorides or acidic substances.
Plastic Cable Glands
- Nylon: Nylon cable glands are lightweight, insulators, and offer good resistance to chemicals, oils, and solvents. They are suitable for indoor applications or where electrical insulation is required. However, nylon glands may not be suitable for high-temperature environments or applications requiring high mechanical strength.
- PVC: PVC cable glands are lightweight, insulators, and offer good resistance to chemicals, acids, and alkalis. They are suitable for indoor applications or where electrical insulation is required. PVC glands are also resistant to UV radiation, making them suitable for outdoor use. However, PVC glands may not be suitable for high-temperature environments.
Other Materials
- Synthetic rubber: Cable glands made from synthetic rubber, such as neoprene or silicone, offer excellent flexibility, sealing performance, and resistance to weathering, ozone, and UV radiation. They are suitable for outdoor applications or where a high degree of environmental sealing is required. However, rubber glands may not be suitable for applications requiring high mechanical strength or resistance to certain chemicals.
How to Select the Right Cable Gland
Cable diameter
Ensure that the cable gland is compatible with the outer diameter of the cable being used. Cable glands are designed to accommodate a specific range of cable diameters, and using a gland with an incorrect size can compromise the sealing performance and strain relief properties.
Environmental conditions
Consider the environmental conditions in which the cable gland will be installed:
- Indoor or outdoor location
- Operating temperature range (high or low temperatures)
- Humidity levels
- Exposure to chemicals, oils, or solvents
- Presence of dust, dirt, or other contaminants
Select a cable gland with an appropriate IP rating and material that can withstand the specific environmental challenges.
Required IP rating
Determine the required ingress protection (IP) rating based on the application and environmental conditions. Consider factors such as exposure to water, dust, and other contaminants. Ensure that the selected cable gland meets or exceeds the required IP rating to maintain the integrity of the electrical enclosure.
Material compatibility and chemical resistance
Ensure that the cable gland material is compatible with the cable jacket material to prevent any adverse chemical reactions or degradation over time. Additionally, consider the chemical resistance of the gland material to withstand exposure to any chemicals, oils, or solvents present in the application environment.
Regulatory requirements and approvals
Verify that the cable gland meets any applicable regulatory requirements or industry standards, such as UL, CSA, ATEX, or IECEx, depending on the specific application and location. Ensure that the gland has the necessary approvals and certifications for the intended use to maintain compliance and safety.