THE primary function of any cable gland is to anchor the cable securely to an electrical apparatus, with Ex d (flameproof) cable glands providing additional safety performance in hazardous locations.
Until recently, strict international testing standards (IEC 60079 series) have meant no Ex d/e corrosion-resistant flameproof compression gland on the world market has been certified without some attendant requirements or ‘special conditions’ of use.
That’s all changed with the launch of South African company Pratley’s new, fully-certified Ex d/e corrosion-resistant Enviro Compression Gland, which has no special conditions of use when being installed.
“That’s a world-first,” said Marketing Director Eldon Kruger, adding that there’s almost no place on earth where its new cable gland cannot be installed.
“From Group I locations in underground fiery mines, and Ex d flameproof environments, through to the coldest and hottest climates on the planet, the gland has been certified for temperatures from minus 20°C to 95°C,” he said.
It’s also IP66/68 certified and can withstand an incredible continuous depth of 350 m underwater. That’s equivalent to the depth of the North Sea 50 km offshore.
“It’s made from high-tensile brass components encapsulated in a tough engineering plastic, which means it will not crack when tightening. This, combined with Pratley’s unique Taper-Tech internal seal design, ensures safe installation in corrosive environments, without damaging the cable or compromising seal longevity due to cable cold-flow.”
The cable gland is suitable for installation in equipment Groups I, II, and III, and Zones 1, 2, 20, 21, and 22 hazardous locations. It’s also completely oil- and grease-resistant.
“I am confident that we have produced a product that not only complies with our policy statement but exceeds it. Our aim was to produce a cable gland for hazardous locations that stands out from the rest and does what a cable gland is supposed to do, without compromising on safety,” Kruger said.
“There shouldn’t be any limitations, special conditions, or ancillary tools. If you need it in metric thread, NPT thread, or stainless steel, no problem, as we can do that, too.”
