Cable Gland Suppliers in UAE – Comprehensive Technical Guide for Selection, Standards, Prices & Industrial Applications
Cable glands are a critical safety and sealing component across the UAE’s electrical, instrumentation, automation and industrial systems. Given the region’s demanding environment — extreme temperatures, high humidity, coastal corrosion, sand/dust exposure, vibration zones and hazardous oil & gas areas — correct gland selection ensures ingress protection, mechanical retention, electrical safety and long-term reliability.
This engineering-grade guide covers types, sizing, IP ratings, material selection, standards, installation, procurement, maintenance, failure modes and verified UAE suppliers. It is intended for MEP contractors, panel builders, procurement engineers, maintenance teams and specification writers.
What is a Cable Gland? — Technical Definition & Core Function
A cable gland (also called a cable connector, cord grip or strain-relief gland) is a mechanical device for securing and sealing the end of an electrical cable where it enters equipment or an enclosure. The gland preserves the enclosure's ingress protection, provides mechanical retention, and — for armoured cables — maintains earthing continuity.
Core Functions
- Provide strain relief and prevent cable pull-out.
- Maintain enclosure IP rating and prevent dust/water ingress.
- Protect against mechanical damage, vibration and abrasion.
- Enable proper earthing/grounding for armoured cables (metal glands).
- Prevent short circuits from moisture or exposed conductors.
Common Application Areas in UAE
- Control panels, junction boxes, MCCs, and switchgear.
- Solar PV arrays, combiner boxes and inverter enclosures.
- Oil & gas installations, refineries, offshore platforms (ATEX zones).
- Marine ports, shipboard cabling, desalination plants.
- Industrial automation, robotics, conveyor drives and motors.
- Data centres (EMC/EMI concerns) and telecom shelters.
Technical Buyer’s Guide — Types of Cable Glands (Detailed)
Below are the primary gland categories used across UAE projects. Each entry includes technical specs, recommended use-cases and engineering notes relevant to Gulf installations.
1. Brass Cable Glands (Armoured & Unarmoured)
Durable, mechanically strong and widely used for harsh-environment terminations.
- Material: Brass (nickel-plated options for improved corrosion resistance)
- IP Rating: IP66 / IP68 (model dependent)
- Temperature Range: −20°C to +120°C (typical)
- Thread: Metric, PG, NPT
- Standards: BS 6121, EN 62444
- Use-cases: Outdoor panels, distribution boards, industrial switchgear
2. Nylon / Polyamide (PA66) Cable Glands
Lightweight, cost-effective and chemically stable for indoor or non-corrosive locations.
- Material: PA66
- IP Rating: Up to IP68 (depending on seal)
- Temperature: −30°C to +90°C
- Advantages: Flame-retardant options, vibration resistant
- Limitations: Not recommended for prolonged UV / coastal salt exposure
3. CPRGMGR / Heavy-duty Industrial Glands
Engineered for high sealing ranges and chemical resistance on machines and trays.
- Material: Nickel-plated brass
- Sealing Range: 3 mm – 75 mm
- IP: IP68
- Application: Automation cabinets, heavy machinery, oil-resistant environments
4. Stainless Steel & Aluminium Metal Glands
High-corrosion resistance — recommended for coastal, offshore and chemical plants.
- Material: SS304 / SS316 / Aluminium
- IP Rating: IP67 – IP69K
- Temperature: −40°C to +150°C
- Use: Marine, offshore platforms, food & beverage washdown areas
5. Captive Component Glands
Integrated fastening reduces assembly time and avoids loose parts during installation.
- Material: Brass or reinforced polymer
- Feature: Captive nuts/seals, easier serviceability
- Use: Robotics, modular equipment, appliance enclosures
6. ATEX / IECEx Explosion-Proof Glands
Certified for use in explosive atmospheres — mandatory where flammable gases/dusts exist.
- Certifications: ATEX (2014/34/EU), IECEx
- Types: Ex d (flameproof), Ex e (increased safety)
- Material: Stainless steel or brass
- Temperature Class: Up to +200°C depending on model
7. CXT & Other Precision Brass Glands
Precision-made brass glands for precise sealing of armoured cables in switchgear and distribution panels.
Cable Gland Size Chart (Metric / PG / NPT)
Use this chart as a guideline. Always confirm with the manufacturer sealing-range chart for the exact model.
| Cable OD |
Metric Thread |
PG Thread |
NPT Thread |
Typical Gland |
| 4–8 mm | M16 | PG7 | 1/4" NPT | Nylon / Brass M16 |
| 6–12 mm | M20 | PG9 | 3/8" NPT | Brass / Nylon M20 |
| 10–14 mm | M25 | PG11 | 1/2" NPT | Brass / SS M25 |
| 13–18 mm | M32 | PG13.5 | 3/4" NPT | Metal / ATEX M32 |
| 18–25 mm | M40 | PG21 | 1" NPT | Metal / ATEX M40 |
How to Measure Cable Size for the Correct Gland — Step-by-Step
- Measure the Outer Diameter (OD): Use a vernier caliper to measure the cable OD at several points — use the largest reading.
- Armour Diameter (if applicable): For SWA/AWA cables measure the armour wire diameter and factor in the armour clamp requirement.
- Check Sheath Thickness: Ensure the gland compression specification matches sheath type (PVC, XLPE, rubber).
- Refer to Manufacturer Sealing Range: Compare measured OD to the gland’s sealing range — choose a model where the OD falls inside the mid-range for best sealing.
- Confirm Thread Type: Match gland thread to the enclosure or conduit thread (Metric / PG / NPT).
- Test Fit: Do a dry test-fit and verify sealing and strain relief before final assembly.
Cable Gland IP Ratings — What They Mean for UAE Installations
Choose the ingress protection level based on exposure and washdown needs. UAE projects commonly use IP66—IP69K depending on outdoor exposure, immersion risk and washdown.
- IP54: Protected against dust and splashes — acceptable for indoor panels.
- IP65: Dust tight and protected against water jets — suitable for outdoor enclosures with limited exposure.
- IP66: Dust tight and protected against strong water jets — common for exposed external boxes.
- IP67: Temporary immersion protection — used for rooftop or potential standing water locations.
- IP68: Long-term immersion — used for submerged or permanently wet environments.
- IP69K: High-pressure, high-temperature washdown — used in food plants, industrial cleaning and heavy washdown operations.
Material Comparison — Brass, Nickel-Brass, Stainless Steel, Nylon & Aluminium
| Material |
Corrosion Resistance |
Temperature Range |
Best Use |
| Brass | Medium | −20°C to 120°C | Panels, general outdoor |
| Nickel-Plated Brass | High | −20°C to 140°C | Industrial outdoor, coastal |
| Stainless Steel (SS316) | Very High | −40°C to 150°C | Marine, offshore, chemical plants |
| Nylon (PA66) | Low | −30°C to 90°C | Indoor, non-corrosive |
| Aluminium | Medium | −20°C to 100°C | HVAC & lightweight housings |
Standards, Certifications & Regulatory Bodies (UAE Relevance)
- DEWA / ADDC / AADC: Local utility specifications for electrical installations.
- IEC 60529: IP rating standard (ingress protection definitions).
- EN 62444: Cable gland construction & testing guidelines.
- BS 6121: Armoured cable termination practices.
- ATEX 2014/34/EU & IECEx: Explosion-proof certification requirements for hazardous zones.
- UL / CSA: North American certifications (project-dependent).
- RoHS / REACH: Environmental compliance where required by project.
Armoured vs Unarmoured Cable Glands — Technical Differences
Armoured Cable Glands
Designed to clamp and retain the armour wires (SWA/AWA). They maintain mechanical retention and earthing continuity. Commonly used in outdoor power, motors and heavy-duty installations.
Unarmoured Cable Glands
Simpler design for non-armoured flexible cables (PVC, XLPE). Used predominantly in indoor DBs, lighting and low-voltage control systems.
Environmental Challenges in UAE & Their Impact on Selection
- High ambient temperatures (up to 50°C+): Choose materials and seals rated for high thermal stress.
- Salt-laden coastal air: Opt for SS316 or nickel-plated finishes in Dubai Marina, Abu Dhabi Corniche and coastal projects.
- Dust & sand ingress: Use IP66+ rated glands and properly sealed enclosures.
- High vibration: Select mechanical-retention designs and anti-vibration seals.
- UV exposure: Avoid standard nylon for prolonged outdoor use; choose UV-stable materials or metal glands.
Common Cable Gland Failure Points & Preventative Actions
- Seal shrinkage / hardening: Replace seals at scheduled intervals; use UV- and heat-resistant elastomers.
- Wrong gland size: Measure OD accurately and use mid-range of sealing specification.
- Loose locknuts / poor torque: Use calibrated torque wrenches and verify locknuts after commissioning.
- Corrosion: Select SS316 or nickel-plated brass in coastal/chemical atmospheres.
- Over-tightening: Follow manufacturer torque values to avoid sheath damage.
- Incorrect thread mismatch: Confirm enclosure thread prior to procurement.
How to Verify Genuine Cable Glands & Avoid Counterfeits
Counterfeit glands are a real issue. Use this checklist when receiving shipments or evaluating vendors.
- Confirm certification labels (ATEX/IECEx / IP rating stamp).
- Request material test certificates (e.g., SS316 test certs, brass composition).
- Check batch / serial numbers and compare with OEM database when available.
- Inspect packaging and manufacturer branding for tamper evidence.
- Verify datasheets and dimensional drawings match supplied parts.
- When in doubt, ask for sample pieces for lab or third-party verification.
Cable Gland Accessories (Essential for Correct Installation)
- Locknuts & serrated washers
- Sealing washers & O-rings
- Earth tags and grounding lugs
- Reducing bushes & adaptors
- Stopping plugs for unused entries
- Shrouds / protective covers for cable entries
Procurement Tips for Engineers & Buyers in the UAE
- Plan size ranges across BOQ to avoid multiple small orders — include spare sizes.
- Specify material and certification in the tender (e.g., SS316 for coastal projects, ATEX for Zone 1).
- Request full datasheets, SDS, test certificates and sample pieces during submittal.
- Negotiate bulk discounts and lead-time guarantees for project delivery schedules.
- Include supplier warranty & replacement clauses in the procurement contract.
- Audit supplier inventory if projects require phased deliveries over months.
Installation & Maintenance Best Practices
- Always use the manufacturer's recommended torque values for compression nuts.
- Apply sealing washers and ensure proper seating before tightening locknut.
- Do not overtighten — it can damage cable sheaths or crush conductor insulation.
- Periodically inspect glands for seal hardening, cracks or corrosion (especially in coastal zones).
- Keep spares for critical installations to avoid extended downtime during maintenance.
- For ATEX glands, maintain records of installation & any modification for compliance audits.
Cable Gland Price Range in UAE (2025 Estimate)
| Type |
Approx. Price (AED / piece) |
Typical Use |
| Nylon / PA66 | AED 2 – AED 15 | Indoor wiring, lighting panels |
| Brass | AED 10 – AED 50 | Industrial boards, outdoor boxes |
| Metal / Stainless Steel | AED 25 – AED 100 | Marine, heavy machinery |
| ATEX / IECEx | AED 75 – AED 250+ | Hazardous zones, oil & gas |
| Captive Component | AED 20 – AED 60 | Automation, robotics |
Verified Cable Gland Suppliers in the UAE (Contact References)
- Arabian Vision Electrical & Sanitary Trading LLC — Sharjah
Stockists of brass glands, fittings, and electrical accessories.
Phone: +971 6 510 9009
- South Control Electrical Accessories LLC — Abu Dhabi
Suppliers of nylon, metal, and ATEX-certified glands.
Phone: +971 2 551 6695
- Silver Waves Electrical Equipment Trading — Abu Dhabi
Industrial-grade glands compliant with IEC & ATEX.
Phone: +971 2 445 6339
- Mountain Apex Hard & Elect Ware Trading LLC — Sharjah
Provides glands, terminals and fasteners for MEP and mechanical trades.
Phone: +971 6 543 3984
Expanded FAQ — Technical & Practical Questions
Q1. What is the function of an earthing tag on a gland?
Earthing tags ensure continuity between the armour and equipment earth. They are mandatory on armoured cable terminations where protective bonding is required.
Q2. Can I use the same gland for indoor and outdoor?
Only if the gland’s material and IP rating are suitable for both environments. Nylon may be fine indoors but is not recommended for prolonged outdoor use in UAE heat or coastal areas.
Q3. What is a double compression gland?
Double compression glands have separate compression points for sheath and armour, providing improved retention for armoured cables and better sealing in high-strain applications.
Q4. How often should I inspect glands?
Inspect critical outdoor and coastal installations every 6 months; indoor non-critical installations annually. Inspect seals, locknuts and evidence of corrosion or hardening.
Q5. Are stainless steel glands better than brass?
SS316 offers superior corrosion resistance, particularly in saltwater or chemical environments. Brass performs well in many industrial settings and is cost-effective, but SS316 is preferred in coastal/marine zones.
Q6. Can I oversize a gland?
Oversizing can reduce sealing performance. Always select a gland whose sealing range properly encompasses the cable OD — ideally near the middle of the specified range.
