Welcome to the July/August issue of PEW. We’ll know by now if our home nations have progressed past the group stage of the World Cup – at the time of writing Scotland have won their opening game, with England yet to play. I am hoping that my own beloved Uzbekistan has fared OK – I have no personal connection other than they are one of my sweepstake teams and, as I do enjoy an underdog story, they are my adopted country this year.

If your life has not been consumed by football these past few weeks then you might have been more alert to the announcement by Ofgem that the energy price cap for households on standard variable tariffs will increase by 13% from 1 July 2026, with the annual bill for a ‘typical’ dual-fuel household rising from £1,641 to £1,862. The regulator said the increase was primarily driven by higher wholesale gas prices linked to instability in global energy markets.

While rising bills are unlikely to be welcomed by households or businesses, they re-emphasise the significant opportunities for electrical contractors and wholesalers prepared to respond to changing customer priorities.

Whenever energy costs rise, attention inevitably turns to reducing consumption and improving efficiency. For electrical contractors, that typically translates into greater demand for technologies that help customers take control of their energy use. Solar PV, battery storage, smart controls, energy monitoring systems and LED lighting upgrades all suddenly become more attractive.

The implications are equally significant for wholesalers. Demand for traditional installation products is not going to disappear any time soon, but gaining an all-important competitive advantage can be achieved by stocking a healthy mix of solar products, batteries, smart devices and energy-management technologies. Going the extra mile to offer technical support and product knowledge may also prove just as valuable as competitive pricing. As highlighted in a special report by Schneider Electric (see page 18), when visiting trade counters, almost three-quarters (71%) of customers rate knowledgeable staff as extremely important.

This issue of PEW has a bit of a motoring theme to it, as a feature from Rolec brings us up to speed with the EV industry, while in Soapbox Darren Binns of Jefferson Tools discusses the company’s involvement in grassroots motorsport.

Enjoy the issue!

– Tracey Rushton-Thorpe

Check out the July/August issue here

Catch up on previous ‘Editor’s Viewpoint’ here

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Unicrimp, a Scolmore Group company, has announced the expansion of its Q-Crimp fixings range with the introduction of a new white grommet strip.

Following the successful launch of the product in black, the addition of a white option responds directly to market demand and provides greater flexibility for a wider range of installation environments. Available in 3m, 5m and 10m lengths, this new product reflects Unicrimp’s ongoing commitment to developing practical, installer-focused solutions that meet the evolving needs of the electrical sector.

An essential component for consumer unit installations, the premium white grommet strips have been engineered for both durability and ease of use. Manufactured from a flexible yet hard-wearing material, they are designed to protect cables from sharp and abrasive metal edges, helping to ensure a safe and compliant installation. This makes them particularly suited to rewires and consumer unit replacements, where reliable cable protection is critical.

The heavy-duty white grommet strip can be easily cut to the required length, offering installers a convenient and efficient solution on site. Retaining the same performance characteristics as the original black version, the new white variant allows for improved aesthetic integration where required, without compromising on quality or protection.

Find out more here

Find more industry products and equipment here

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When the going gets tough, the tough need good footwear. That’s why Bobcat is giving readers the chance to win one of two pairs of these high-performance, superior-comfort Dakota boots with an RRP of up to £125 each.

Launched by Overland Shoes, the experts behind some of the world’s most iconic footwear brands, the new-to-market Bobcat Safety Footwear range sets a new standard in durability, comfort and style for work shoes and boots.

The Dakota safety boot is one of the most popular in the range, built to deliver all‑day performance and protection shift after shift. At its core lies Bobcat’s advanced Leaf‑Spring Technology insole, engineered to return energy and reduce fatigue.

For the ultimate performance day-in day-out, the Dakota also features a rugged triple-density outsole, ladder grip, scuff cap resistance and fuel oil resistance. Meanwhile, an ankle zip ensures easy on-off convenience, while a hiker-style lace system delivers a secure, supportive fit. Coupled with a bold, stylish design, luxury textiles and breathable linings, the end result is the ultimate choice for busy electricians looking to move forward in comfort and confidence.

For more information please visit: www.bobcat-footwear.com

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning, simply choose the correct answer from following choices:

Q. What is the name of one of the most popular new safety boots now available from Bobcat Safety Footwear?

A) Dakota

B) Detroit

C) Dallas

Simply fill out the form below and tell us your answer for the chance to WIN!

Deadline for entries 31/08/26

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In this month’s Face to Face we speak with Glenn Ward, General Manager of Dunasfern, and find out more about the business and the industry sector it operates in.

Q. Can you tell us a bit about Dunasfern and what the company offers?

Dunasfern has been serving the data and communication market for over 43 years and has evolved into one of the leading suppliers of data infrastructure products across the UK. Breadth of product range and being commercially competitive are essential and a given in today’s world but at Dunasfern, the real benefit and differential we offer, is the market leading customer service and focus we dedicate to every customer and every order.

Q. How has the cabling solutions industry changed since Dunasfern first entered the market?

Since the birth of LAN data cables and the growth in networking computers, we have seen a massive increase in data demand and speed of transmission. This need to transmit more data and faster has continued and accelerated since the pandemic in 2020 with more hybrid working, streaming meetings almost continually and with the evolution of AI, this demand for data capacity and speed will only continue to grow.

Q. What products and solutions are popular with customers at the moment?

Within the whole communications spectrum, LAN data cables represent the largest volume and value, and we are continuing to see demand migrate from Cat5e to Cat6 and even Cat6a. There is still significant demand for low data use within CCTV environments and Cat5e is a perfect choice for this type of solution. Within the solar market, we are seeing Cat5e shielded SWA armoured cables installed to feed the CCTV cameras around the site. Further to this, we are seeing increasing demand for Belden type equivalent cables, alarm cables and even coax and telephone cables. The old 1308 BT type telephone cables are now being used in door entry systems due to them being a really cost-effective solution.

Q. What markets does Dunasfern operate in and how do requirements differ depending on environment?

Dunasfern is the leading supplier of data networking products to electrical wholesalers and in this market demand is mainly centred around Cat5e and Cat6 installations using PVC, LSZH and PE insulation and mostly unshielded. In a harsher industrial installation and in areas where power cables run close by, a shielded cable would be required to minimise data interruption. Coupled with this is the supporting infrastructure connectivity products such as plugs, modules, faceplates cabinets, wall boxes and all products within, such as patch panels power distribution, patch leads, etc. The demand for fibre cable installations is quite low but in larger commercial and data centre installations, fibre is the cable of choice rather than copper.

Q. Has the growing home automation market resulted in increased demand for structured cabling in homes?

The biggest increase in demand at home has followed on from the pandemic in 2020, with more people working from home, streaming meetings, whilst the children are streaming learning platforms or gaming. This has significantly increased demand for data but with increased performance from Wi-Fi networks and routers, the need to install data cables at home is currently quite low, unless the home is very large. This data demand is set to continue to increase with the development of AI, so it maybe the case that a need for data cables installed within homes will be required.

Q. What are Dunasfern’s plans for the year ahead?

Our plan is to continue to work proactively with our electrical wholesale partners, to help bring greater awareness of the wide range of data networking products available from them. We do this with a range of point-of-sale merchandise, a training programme designed to improve awareness within the branch staff to help them in their discussions with their customers and bespoke promotional activity at branch level. As our business continues to grow, we are always looking to strengthen the team and increase the resources to support our wholesale partners.

At Dunasfern, we want to continually strive to improve the proactive support we offer across customer service, product availability and commercial support. We take nothing for granted and our dedicated account managers are always on hand to discuss ways to improve our collaborative approach.

Find out more about Dunasfern here

Catch up on previous ‘Face to Face’ articles here

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As UK summers grow increasingly hotter, electrical wholesalers are seeing a clear shift in buying habits. Cooling solutions, once considered seasonal, are now essential across both domestic and commercial markets. We find out how Prime Electrical Distributors and Devola are helping wholesalers meet surging demand.

With forecasts suggesting that 2026 could be among the hottest summers on record – and conditions already warmer than average – the opportunity for wholesalers to expand into cooling has never been greater.

Meeting demand

Prime Electrical Distributors (PED), alongside its exclusive in-house brand Devola, is helping wholesalers meet this demand with a comprehensive, high-quality product offering backed by strong service and availability.

Established in 2009, Devola has become a fast-rising name within the HVAC sector. Its reputation is built on delivering reliable, well-designed products at competitive price points, without compromising on quality. This balance is particularly important for wholesalers looking to offer dependable solutions while remaining competitive in a price-sensitive market.

Today, Devola’s range includes over 100 products available from its UK distribution centre. The portfolio covers portable air conditioners, dehumidifiers and a wide variety of fans, giving wholesalers a complete solution for cooling requirements. The range continues to grow, with new products – including hand dryers and towel rails – set to launch later this year.

The need for cooling is being driven by changing environmental conditions. UK temperatures continue to rise year on year, with heatwaves becoming more frequent and intense. These rising temperatures have a direct impact on working and living environments. In commercial settings, excessive heat can lead to physical strain such as heat exhaustion and cramps, while also reducing concentration and productivity. As a result, businesses and organisations are placing greater emphasis on maintaining comfortable indoor climates.

This shift is driving demand across multiple sectors, including education, local authorities, hospitality and office environments. For electrical wholesalers, it presents an opportunity to provide practical solutions that address a growing and immediate need.

Air conditioning

Devola’s range of portable air conditioners is a key part of this offering. With more than 10 models available in both white and black finishes, the range combines strong performance with modern design. These units are ideal for spaces where permanent installation is not practical, offering flexible, effective cooling.

Portable air conditioners work by drawing warm air into the unit and passing it over refrigerant-filled coils, which absorb heat. The cooled air is then circulated back into the room, while hot air is expelled through a hose connected to a window. This simple but effective process allows users to quickly create a comfortable environment.

A major advantage of Devola’s air conditioning range is the inclusion of smart technology across all models. Users can control their units remotely, set schedules, and optimise performance to suit their needs. As smart home and workplace solutions become more common, this feature adds real value for customers and an additional selling point for wholesalers.

Alongside air conditioning units, Devola offers a wide selection of fans. The range includes high-velocity floor fans, desk fans, pedestal fans and tower fans, ensuring there is a solution for every application and budget. This breadth of choice allows wholesalers to meet diverse customer requirements, from personal cooling to larger-scale airflow solutions.

Partnership

The strength of the Devola brand is further enhanced by its exclusive partnership with Prime Electrical Distributors. PED has built a strong reputation within the industry for reliability, service and customer support, making it a trusted partner for wholesalers across the UK.

All Devola cooling products are available for next-day delivery nationwide, enabling wholesalers to respond quickly to spikes in demand, particularly during peak summer periods. This level of availability is essential in a fast-moving market, where timing can make a significant difference to sales. PED has also invested in expanding its UK sales team to support the growing demand for Devola products. This ensures that wholesalers have access to the expertise and support they need to make the most of the opportunity.

Electrical wholesalers can also benefit from becoming approved Devola stockists. This provides access to regular promotional offers and preferential trading terms, helping businesses maximise profitability while remaining competitive.

As the UK continues to experience rising temperatures, the demand for cooling solutions will only increase. For electrical wholesalers, this represents a clear opportunity for growth.

With its established reputation, expanding product range and commitment to quality, Devola – supported by Prime Electrical Distributors – offers a complete and reliable solution…

For further details, click here

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LEDVANCE highlights some of its initiatives that are helping to create a lasting impact beyond the product.

In the electrical and lighting sector, it’s easy to focus purely on performance metrics – efficiency, output, controls and compliance. These are, of course, critical. But increasingly, the industry is recognising that its role stretches far beyond specification sheets and installations. The most forward-thinking companies are those finding ways to connect with communities, inspire future generations and demonstrate real social value.

A standout example of this in action comes from LEDVANCE and its recent player escort initiative with SV Werder Bremen. While the campaign itself has now concluded, it serves as a powerful example of how a lighting manufacturer can step outside its traditional remit to create something genuinely memorable.

The concept centred around one of football’s most iconic moments: walking onto the pitch alongside professional players. For the February 2026 Bundesliga fixture between Werder Bremen and FC Bayern Munich, LEDVANCE offered 11 children the chance to experience exactly that – but with a creative twist that tied directly back to its core business.

Rather than running a standard prize draw, the company invited children aged six to nine to design and create their own football-themed lamps. Whether painted, crafted or drawn, each entry was a reflection of imagination, individuality and the connection between light and sport. It was a simple idea, but an effective one: encouraging creativity while subtly introducing younger audiences to the concept of lighting design.

Stepping into the spotlight

A panel of judges, including members of the LEDVANCE marketing and sales teams, selected the most imaginative entries. The winners were then given the opportunity to step into the spotlight in a way few could ever forget.

On matchday, those selected walked hand in hand with professional players onto the pitch, in front of thousands of fans. Each child received a full player escort kit to keep, along with tickets for an accompanying adult – ensuring the experience could be shared with family. The entire day was captured on film, creating a lasting reminder of what, for many, will be a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

While the experience itself is extraordinary, what makes this initiative particularly compelling is the thinking behind it. LEDVANCE didn’t simply attach its name to a sporting event; it created a meaningful engagement that links brand, creativity and community.

Importantly, this was not an isolated effort. The company has a track record of using its partnerships in football to deliver wider social value. Previous initiatives have included working with children from the Caritas Youth Care Center St. Vinzenz in Landshut, offering similar matchday experiences to those who may not otherwise have access to them. By continuing this approach, LEDVANCE is demonstrating a long-term commitment rather than a one-off campaign.

At the same time, the initiative reinforces the company’s technical credentials. As the official lighting partner for Werder Bremen, LEDVANCE has played a key role in delivering modern, energy-efficient lighting at the club’s home ground, the Weserstadion. Beyond this, it has contributed to major projects such as the BayArena, home of Bayer Leverkusen, as well as a wide range of smaller-scale sports facilities.

This dual focus – combining engineering expertise with community engagement – is increasingly relevant across the electrical wholesale sector. Customers and partners are no longer looking solely at product performance. They are also asking what companies stand for, how they contribute to society, and whether they are investing in the future.

For wholesalers and contractors alike, there is a clear takeaway. Lighting is not just functional; it shapes experiences. From grassroots sports pitches to elite stadiums, the environments we help create have a direct impact on how people feel, interact and remember moments.

Creativity in outreach

Initiatives like the LEDVANCE player escort competition also highlight the value of creativity in outreach. By asking children to design their own lamps, the company moved beyond passive participation and encouraged active engagement. In doing so, it planted a seed – introducing the idea that lighting can be imaginative, expressive, and even fun.

There’s also a broader message here about accessibility. While large stadium projects often dominate headlines, LEDVANCE’s portfolio spans facilities of all sizes, ensuring that local clubs and community venues can benefit from the same level of innovation and efficiency. This inclusive approach mirrors the ethos behind the competition itself: opening doors and creating opportunities.

Ultimately, what sets this initiative apart is its balance. It celebrates technical excellence in sports lighting while simultaneously delivering a human story – one centred on excitement, creativity and inspiration.

For an industry sometimes perceived as purely technical, that’s an important reminder. Behind every installation is an opportunity to make a difference, whether that’s improving sustainability, enhancing wellbeing, or simply creating moments people will never forget.

And in this case, that moment was simple but powerful: a child stepping onto a football pitch, under world-class lighting, hand in hand with a hero.

Read more about the projects here

Catch up on previous ‘Soapbox’ articles here

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Seaward Electronic has expanded its PV testing offering with the launch of the PV:1525-IV, introducing IV curve tracing capability and completing the PV:1525 Series – a range of PV installation testers for 1,500V systems, combining electrical commissioning tests and IV curve tracing within a single platform.

Built for residential and commercial rooftop solar systems, the PV:1525 Series combines essential electrical commissioning tests with a single, intuitive workflow. With the addition of IV curve tracing, installers and O&M professionals can now move from core safety testing through to advanced performance analysis using the same platform.

The Series supports open-circuit voltage (Voc) measurements up to 1,500V DC, short-circuit current (Isc) up to 25A, insulation resistance testing to 1,500V DC, and continuity measurements. This makes it well suited to today’s higher-voltage residential and commercial rooftop systems, where traditional 1,000V tools may no longer be sufficient.

The PV:1525-IV extends the series with IV curve tracing for performance analysis, enabling installers and O&M professionals to move beyond basic safety checks and gain deeper insight into system performance. With both models built on the same intuitive workflow, users can choose the level of capability that matches their application, from fast commissioning through to detailed performance analysis.

Get more details here

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Clear guidance on inspection regimes, evolving terminology and practical considerations is helping wholesalers and contractors navigate electrical equipment safety with confidence, says Steve Dunning, Managing Director at Martindale Electric.

Electrical equipment safety remains a fundamental responsibility across every workplace. Yet confusion still exists around what needs to be tested, how often, and even what the process should be called. While Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is a familiar term, the introduction of Electrical Equipment Testing (EET) reflects a broader, more accurate understanding of today’s requirements.

At its core, the requirement is straightforward. Under the Electricity at Work Regulations (1989), any electrical equipment that could cause injury must be maintained in a safe condition. PAT emerged as an established method of meeting this duty, focusing on the inspection and testing of portable electrical appliances to ensure they are safe for continued use.

However, the industry’s shift towards the term Electrical Equipment Testing is more than just a rebrand. Introduced in the fifth edition of the IET Code of Practice for In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment, the updated terminology addresses a long-standing misconception that only smaller, movable items require testing. In reality, the scope extends far beyond traditional ‘portable’ devices.

EET better reflects the full range of equipment that must be considered, including a wider variety of mains powered appliances and equipment. This could encompass anything from laptops and kettles through to vending machines, refrigeration units and even larger industrial equipment. While PAT remains widely used in conversation and training, understanding EET ensures that no equipment category is overlooked.

Frequency 

One of the most common questions surrounding PAT or EET testing is how often it should be carried out. Unlike some regulatory requirements, there is no universal testing interval defined in law. Instead, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends a risk based approach, often interpreted in practice as annual testing, but this is only a guideline.

The appropriate frequency depends heavily on both the type of equipment and the environment in which it is used. For example, a power tool operating on a construction site is subject to significantly greater wear and risk than a desk lamp in a hotel room. As such, it requires more frequent inspection and testing.

This flexibility can make compliance feel ambiguous for employers. While PAT or EET testing itself is not explicitly mandated, the legal obligation to maintain safe equipment is absolute. In practical terms, regular inspection and testing provide a recognised and defensible way to demonstrate compliance with both the Electricity at Work Regulations and the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974).

For contractors advising clients, or for wholesalers supporting those contractors, this distinction is important. The conversation should not centre on whether testing is legally required, but rather how businesses can evidence that they are meeting their duty of care.

Equipment selection

In most commercial and industrial environments, such as offices, hotels, factories and public buildings, testing is typically carried out on site. This may be undertaken by an in-house maintenance team, but more commonly is delivered by specialist contractors.

For those carrying out testing, the choice of equipment is critical. Portability and ease of use are key considerations, particularly for engineers working across multiple locations throughout the day. Lightweight, handheld testers that are simple to operate help improve efficiency while reducing user fatigue.

Modern units, such as Martindale’s HPAT550 and HPAT650, are designed with these needs in mind. Features like USB-C charging support extended use in the field, while intuitive interfaces help streamline the testing process, particularly for less experienced operatives.

Beyond the tester itself, record keeping is another essential element of any PAT/EET regime. This can range from traditional handwritten logbooks through to fully digital, cloud based systems. Regardless of the method, maintaining accurate records is vital, not only for operational tracking but also for demonstrating compliance during audits or inspections.

Labelling also plays a key role. After testing, equipment is typically marked with a clear pass or fail indicator, providing immediate visual confirmation of its status. For wholesalers, this creates an opportunity to supply complementary products such as labels, logbooks and bundled kits. Solutions like the Martindale PATKIT1 PAT Accessory KIT, which include 1,000 pass labels, 200 fail labels, IEC adaptors and logbook, offers a convenient way to support both new and existing users.

Compliance

A persistent misconception within the industry is that PAT testing is a legal requirement in its own right. In reality, legislation focuses on outcomes rather than processes. Employers must ensure equipment is safe; PAT/EET is simply one of the most widely accepted ways of achieving this.

This distinction matters because it reinforces the importance of a tailored, risk-based approach. High-risk environments, such as construction sites or manufacturing facilities, will naturally require more frequent and rigorous testing regimes than lower-risk settings like offices.

For contractors, this means applying professional judgement rather than relying on fixed intervals. For wholesalers, it means understanding the nuances of different applications so they can recommend appropriate solutions and equipment.

Ultimately, whether it is referred to as PAT or EET, the underlying objective remains unchanged: ensuring that electrical equipment is safe to use. The updated terminology simply brings greater clarity to the scope of what should be included.

Regular inspection and testing, supported by appropriate equipment and robust record keeping, not only helps organisations meet their legal obligations but also reduces the risk of accidents and downtime. From contractors on site to wholesalers at the point of supply, having a clear understanding of both the terminology and the practical requirements is essential. By doing so, they can provide informed guidance, support compliance, and contribute to safer working environments across every sector.

Further information can be found here

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This year marks a major milestone for Click Scolmore as the company proudly celebrates 35 years of continuous BSI Kitemark certification on its BS1363 socket outlets.

In a market where imitation products and misleading claims are becoming increasingly common, this achievement is more than a badge of honour – it is a powerful reminder of what genuine, independently verified quality looks like.

The BSI Kitemark has long been one of the most trusted symbols in the electrical industry. First registered in 1903, it confirms that a product has been rigorously tested, repeatedly checked and proven to meet recognised industry standards. It offers reassurance that what sits behind the faceplate is every bit as reliable as what you see on the surface.

That reassurance matters now more than ever. Copycat products and ‘like for like’ claims are increasingly finding their way into the market, and while many of these alternatives may look similar, the differences beneath the surface can be significant. Cheaper products often achieve their price point by substituting critical materials with inferior alternatives – thinner brass, or copper where brass should be – compromising durability, safety and long‑term performance.

Click Scolmore’s approach stands in stark contrast. Every product is designed in‑house in Tamworth, Staffordshire, by specialist teams, then developed in close collaboration with a small number of long‑standing overseas manufacturing partners. These factories operate exclusively for Scolmore, supported by investment in equipment, technology and skilled personnel. Regular site visits and strict quality systems ensure that every product meets the company’s exacting standards.

This controlled, transparent and accountable supply chain is not something that can be casually replicated. Yet some suppliers continue to imply that their products come from the same factories or are made to the same standards. Such claims mislead customers and undermine the importance of verified testing and approvals. Without the BSI Kitemark, there is simply no equivalent assurance of safety or performance.

As Click Scolmore celebrates 35 years of holding one of the industry’s most respected quality marks, the message to the market is clear: don’t judge a product by its appearance alone. Judge it by its testing, its materials, its provenance – and by whether it carries the Kitemark that proves its quality.

Commenting on the achievement, Shahm Barhom, Managing Director, Product Certification, BSI, said: “Marking 35 years of BSI Kitemark certification is a significant achievement and reflects Scolmore’s enduring commitment to quality, safety and trusted performance.

“Scolmore’s longstanding certification demonstrates not only compliance, but a proactive approach to maintaining the highest standards over time. We are proud to recognise this achievement and to support organisations like Scolmore that are dedicated to delivering excellence over the long term.”

Find more industry news here

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Cable runs in hazardous and potentially explosive locations need to be carefully planned, with every component chosen to meet strict performance and safety requirements. Lee Frizzell, CMP Products’ Technical Director, looks at their importance in these environments and how correct specification can be achieved every time.

The importance of cable glands simply can’t be underestimated – especially in hazardous and potentially explosive installation locations. Put simply, without the correct specification there’s the very real risk of gas migration and the increased danger that products aren’t able to prevent or contain an explosion.

Attention to detail

Of course, all aspects of cable runs in these kinds of installations demand exceptional attention to detail; with every component – from cables to junction boxes and everything in between – carefully specified to ensure they remain operational in times of system stress and prevent ignition of surrounding explosive atmospheres.

And while cable glands may seem a minor part of the specification challenge, it’s vital that they aren’t underestimated. They are, after all, the primary sealing point for cable entry and exit points and on top of that provide mechanical retention, environmental protection, earth continuity and, in explosive atmospheres, they help to prevent or contain an explosion.

Explosive atmosphere installations are classified into various types depending on the type of hazard; typically flammable gases, vapours or combustible dusts. In these situations, cable glands serve five essential functions:

• Explosion protection: Flameproof (Ex d) glands prevent flames produced by an explosion inside an enclosure from transmitting into the external atmosphere. While Increased Safety (Ex e) glands terminate and seal the cable into the enclosure, which itself contains certified components that cannot spark or reach temperatures high enough to ignite an explosive atmosphere.
• Gas migration prevention: Correctly specified or installed glands will prevent explosive gases travelling along cable runs into neighbouring equipment, causing explosion risks.
• Environmental sealing: Glands must block ingress of moisture, dust and corrosive elements. This is particularly important in offshore, marine or chemical processing plants.
• Mechanical stability: Pull-out resistance, or strain relief prevents cable damage and preserves safety over the equipment’s lifespan. 
• Earth continuity: Any armour or metallic screen in the cable is terminated and grounded inside the cable gland.

Safey first

If not correctly specified, then even a high quality cable installation and enclosure can become dangerously compromised. So, what steps need to be taken to ensure correct and safe specification?

There are several key steps that need to be taken; starting with understanding the environment in which the system will operate. This is classified by different zones – with Zones 0, 1 and 2 relating to explosive gas; and Zones 20, 21 and 22 concerning explosive dust.

These zones are then broken down to confirm the explosive atmosphere and subgroup and from there the type of enclosure protection concept needed can be identified. As mentioned, Ex d is flameproof, while Ex e is increased safety – no sparks or heat sources. There are also Ex i, Ex nR and Ex t options. The correct type of cable gland is then chosen to complement the enclosure. Problems arise if the wrong kind of gland is used – for example, fitting an Ex e gland on an Ex d enclosure is extremely dangerous.

The cable type then needs to be matched to the appropriate gland. For example, armoured cables require glands that can correctly terminate steel wire armour (SWA), steel tape armour (STA) or aluminium wire armour (AWA). The material of the cable gland itself, most commonly brass, nickel-plated brass, stainless steel or aluminium must also be selected appropriately.

Attention must also be paid to the cable’s inner bedding diameter, overall diameter, any armour or braid thickness and the applicable tolerances. Any uncertainty in selection risks compromising the cable or cable gland’s performance and overall system integrity.

The inner construction of the cable also needs careful consideration. For example, multicore cables increase the risk of gas migration and flame transmission through any gaps; to mitigate this risk and maintain Ex d integrity, a barrier type gland is required to seal directly around the cable inner cores. Barrier glands are mandatory for Ex d with unfilled multicore cables (per EN/IEC 60079‑14).

A correctly specified barrier gland will provide the peace of mind that gas will be prevented from travelling between the inner cores into neighbouring equipment or enclosures. This is essential in installations where explosive gases (e.g. hydrogen, acetylene, methane, ethylene) are present and pressure differentials exist.

Up to standard

As with every element of any cable installation, cable glands need to comply with industry wide standards. For projects following UKEX/ATEX or IECEx requirements, the key is the EN/IEC 60079 series and every explosive atmosphere cable gland we sell complies with the strict requirements of these internationally recognised standards.

On top of this, glands should carry certification markings that match the explosive atmosphere classification of the system; with temperature ratings that meet or exceed site requirements; gland materials match environmental and chemical exposure profiles; and Ingress Protection (IP) ratings align with enclosure and site specifications. Any deviation can make the entire installation non-compliant.

And the specification challenge doesn’t end there:

• Corrosion resistance requirements instruct the choice of product material and coating or plating
• Thread type mismatch is a frequent cause of installation error. Enclosure and gland entry threads need to match in type, length and taper. For Ex d, minimum thread engagement must also meet EN/IEC 60079-1

And, of course, and it should go without saying – the manufacturer’s installation instructions need to be followed precisely.

Structured approach

Cable glands may be small, but their importance in hazardous and explosive atmospheres is mighty. They protect personnel and infrastructure by maintaining the integrity of the system. Incorrect gland specification or installation increases the risk of a catastrophic explosion, gas migration, or moisture ingress.

By following a structured approach — beginning with proper explosive atmosphere classification and matching gland design to cable type, through to confirming certification, assessing environmental conditions and ensuring correct thread engagement — engineers and installers can achieve the right cable gland specification every time.

Additional information is available here

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