7 Tips for Installing Brass Cable Glands the Right Way
Installing brass cable glands correctly is crucial if you want to ensure long-term safety, performance, and durability in any electrical setup. While the structure of a brass cable gland may seem simple, improper installation can severely affect its efficiency over time. Whether you’re managing a metal enclosure for electrical equipment or just running cables through harsh environments, getting this process right matters.
Here we will walk you through everything you need to know about installing brass cable glands, from essential preparation steps to handy pro tips. We will even share the best metal and plastic cable gland accessories to make your work easier, all of which are available at Meteor Electrical.
Why Proper Installation Matters?
The role of a brass cable gland extends beyond just connecting cables. These glands:
- Ensure a secure seal to prevent dust, moisture, or chemical ingress.
- Maintain the mechanical strength of the installation.
- Offer electrical continuity for armoured cables.
- Support heat dissipation for high-load connections.
Choosing quality plastic or metal cable gland accessories is the first step, but installing them correctly ensures lasting performance, especially in demanding environments like industrial plants or outdoor setups.
Credit: Beisit Electric
7 Essential Tips for Installing Brass Cable Glands
1. Always Verify Materials and Cable Specifications
Before you even begin, double-check that your brass cable glands and cables meet all project specifications. Poor-quality products or mismatched sizes can cause issues down the line.
Pro Tip: Stick with trusted suppliers like Meteor Electrical to guarantee you’re getting compliant, durable products.
2. Avoid Installation During Rainy Weather
Installing brass cable glands during heavy rain isn’t just inconvenient, it can cause water ingress into your cables, shortening their lifespan and even leading to short circuits. Always schedule installations on dry days where possible.
3. Study Manufacturer Instructions Carefully
Before installing your brass cable glands, carefully read the manufacturer’s guidelines. This is especially crucial for high-voltage applications (4kV and 10kV+), where small mistakes could void warranties or even pose safety risks.
4. Ground Higher Voltage Installations Properly
For cables operating above 4kV and 10kV, ensure that the armour is properly grounded at one end. This prevents the buildup of dangerous electrical potentials and supports safe operation.
5. Be Gentle When Pressing Copper Tubes
When connecting terminals, avoid applying excessive force to copper tubes. After crimping, lightly file down any bumps or burrs to prevent sharp edges that could cause wear or damage over time.
6. Use a Blowtorch with Extreme Caution
If you must use a blowtorch, keep it moving continuously to avoid overheating any one section. Overheating could shrink or deform the gland, impacting its waterproofing and mechanical properties.
7. Follow Drawings for Cold-Shrink Cable Joints
When working with cold-shrinkable cable glands, adhere strictly to technical drawings and specifications. Proper support withdrawal and shrinkage are vital for ensuring a tight, weatherproof fit.
Recommended Products for Brass Cable Gland Installations
To make sure your installation goes off without a hitch, here are some top-performing products you can grab from Meteor Electrical:
1. 25mm PG Gland IP68 with Locknut – Deligo Red
A heavy-duty red nylon gland with a neoprene-sealing ring for maximum strain relief and protection.
Features:
- Cable diameter: 18.5mm
- Material: Nylon (Red)
- IP68 waterproof rating
- Thread Size: PG25
- Supplied with locknut
2. 20mm Cable Gland BW with Locknut, Shroud & Earthtag – Unicrimp
Ideal for SWA cable connections where mechanical strength and electrical continuity are critical.
Features:
- Manufactured from cast brass to BS2874
- Full kit: shroud, earth tag & locknut
- Suitable for indoor armoured cable applications
3. 50mm Cable Gland Pack of 5 – Unicrimp
Perfect for larger installations, these polyamide 6 nylon glands maintain a solid IP68 rating for heavy-duty environments.
Features:
- Pack of 5 glands
- Locknuts and washers included
- Ideal for large-diameter cables
4. 25mm Cable Gland CW with Locknut, Shroud & Earthtag – Unicrimp
For reliable indoor and outdoor SWA cable installations, this CW type brass gland ensures mechanical and electrical safety.
Features:
- Tested to BS6121 Pt1
- Manufactured from premium cast brass
- Supplied with all fitting accessories
Credit: Axis Electricals
Choosing the Right Cable Gland Accessories for the Job
Whether you're working with plastic or metal cable gland accessories or looking for weatherproof cable gland accessories online, ensure you're sourcing components that match the intended cable type, diameter, and environmental conditions.
Meteor Electrical stocks a wide range of high-quality glands and fittings that are all rigorously tested to the latest standards to support your installation needs.
Conclusion
When it comes to installing brass cable glands, following the right steps and using trusted accessories can make all the difference between a job well done and a costly repair later. Meteor Electrical offers a full range of metal and plastic cable gland accessories as well as weatherproof cable gland accessories online designed to make your installations safe and compliant.
Ready to upgrade your cable installations?
Browse Meteor Electrical's full range of cable glands here!
FAQs
Q1: Can I reuse brass cable glands after removal?
It’s generally recommended not to reuse them, as sealing elements and threads may degrade, compromising performance.
Q2: How do I know what size of cable gland I need?
Match the gland size to the cable’s outer diameter. Meteor Electrical also provides an SWA Gland Size Chart to help you choose the correct fit.
Q3: What's the main difference between BW and CW brass glands?
BW glands are mainly for indoor use and mechanical retention; CW glands provide both mechanical retention and a watertight seal, ideal for indoor and outdoor use.