EN60079-14 8.3.2 states that “Cables shall be supported and routed straight from the cable entry device to avoid lateral tension that could compromise the seal around the cable” and that “if additional clamping is required to prevent pulling and twisting of the cable transmitting the forces to the conductor terminations inside the enclosure/connector, a clamp shall be provided, as close as practicable to the gland along the cable. Note 1: Cable clamps within 10 times the diameter of the cable or 300mm whichever is the shorter length of the cable entry device are commonly used and might be required by other codes, for example IEC 61892.”

In short, cables should be clamped, as close to the rear seal of the gland as practical, to help prevent cable movement which in turn can loosen conductors and cause water and dust ingress.

But it is not just here where the use of the Omni® Accessory is recommended. This requirement to ensure cables are correctly supported when exiting cable glands is further demonstrated in almost all Hazardous Area gland manufacturers certificates and instructions for safe use. The majority of compression, displacement or diaphragm type Ex glands, when used with unarmoured or braided cables, require that the cables are clamped to prevent pulling or twisting in order to maintain IP (ingress protection against water and solids) as well as the electrical continuity of the braid/shield.

Almost every hazardous area cable gland, irrespective of manufacturer, with an “X” at the end of their ATEX/IEXEC certificate number, requires that the cable, when used in a fixed installation with unarmoured or braided cable is clamped to prevent pulling or twisting. Most of the leading glands in the market today have a similar requirement, yet the majority of installations bypass this requirement completely.

This is not a “nice to have” rather a legal requirement to ensure the gland is installed in line with the certification – without this, your installation is non-compliant.

The Omni® Accessory from Blayds is the all-in-one solution that ensures your cable installation is correctly routed straight from the gland whilst also ensuring that the cable is clamped to prevent twisting and pulling. It also includes an integrated IP seal, earthing, and also provides a handy location for cable/circuit marker.  Available in Brass or Nickel Plated Brass with/or without integrated IP washer and in sizes M20 through to M40, the Omni® Accessory is a simple and cost effective way to ensure your cable gland installations are compliant with the latest standards. By installing the Omni® Accessory, you are helping to reduce the strain on the cable gland seal, improving its lifespan, its IP performance and its hazardous area protection.

Visit the Blayds website today at www.blayds.com or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to request your free of charge Omni® Accessory sample pack.