The Evolution of the SWA Gland: Why CMP CW Cable Glands are the Gold Standard
When it comes to SWA cable installations, few components are as important as the SWA gland. These special cable glands are designed to terminate, seal, and provide electrical continuity on armoured cables used both indoors and outdoors. Whether you’re wiring heavy-duty equipment, setting up installations in harsh conditions, or routing cables through industrial enclosures, choosing the right gland size is critical.
One of the most trusted options on the market is the CMP CW cable gland — a high-quality, robust solution for a wide range of SWA cable applications. Available in metric sizes and designed for superior earthing, this gland is used in panels, power networks, and control systems all over the world.
A Brief History of SWA Cable and Glands
The Birth of SWA Cable
Steel wire armoured cable was developed in the early 20th century to meet the growing demand for buried and externally routed power conductors. Its construction—multiple layers of insulation, outer sheath, and steel armour—made it ideal for preventing mechanical damage.
Why Glands Matter
Without proper termination, even the most robust SWA cable can fail. The SWA gland was designed to provide bonding, secure connections, and maintain environmental protection—a seal that prevents the ingress of dust, moisture, and other contaminants. This is especially important in outdoor or hazardous environments.
CMP CW Cable Gland: Built for Performance
The CMP CW series sets the benchmark in armoured cable gland design. Manufactured from high-integrity brass and available with plastic or rubber shroud options, these glands can be installed across a wide range of industrial and commercial environments.
Key Features:
- Two-part armour clamping: Independent earthing and mechanical retention.
- Weatherproofing: IP66 rated (with accessories available up to IP68) for enhanced protection.
- Accessory compatible: Designed for use with shrouds and lock nuts for complete environmental sealing and secure panel mounting.
- Durable materials: Brass, nickel-plated brass, and plastic variants available.
These glands are ideal for terminating armoured cables in power distribution, automation, and electrical infrastructure applications.
SWA Gland Size (CMP CW Series)
Selecting the correct gland size based on cable diameter and outer sheath is vital. Below is a quick guide to the CW series:
| Gland Size | Cable Diameter (mm) | Outer Sheath (mm) | Armour Wire (mm²) | Entry Thread | Typical Cable Sizes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CW-20S | 6.1 – 11.7 | 8.7 – 14.0 | 1.5 – 4.0 | M20 × 1.5 | 2.5mm², 4mm² |
| CW-20 | 6.4 – 14.0 | 10.0 – 16.0 | 1.5 – 6.0 | M20 × 1.5 | 6mm², 10mm² |
| CW-25 | 11.1 – 20.0 | 14.0 – 22.0 | 4.0 – 10.0 | M25 × 1.5 | 10mm², 16mm² |
| CW-32 | 17.2 – 26.3 | 19.0 – 28.0 | 6.0 – 16.0 | M32 × 1.5 | 25mm² |
| CW-40 | 23.0 – 32.2 | 24.0 – 34.0 | 10.0 – 25.0 | M40 × 1.5 | 35mm², 50mm² |
| CW-50 | 28.4 – 39.0 | 30.0 – 42.0 | 16.0 – 35.0 | M50 × 1.5 | 70mm² |
| CW-63 | 36.0 – 50.8 | 38.0 – 54.0 | 25.0 – 50.0 | M63 × 1.5 | 95mm² |
| CW-75 | 47.5 – 63.0 | 50.0 – 67.0 | 35.0 – 70.0 | M75 × 2.0 | 120mm², 150mm² |
| CW-90 | 65.0 – 78.0 | 70.0 – 83.0 | 50.0 – 95.0 | M90 × 2.0 | 185mm² |
| CW-100 | 76.0 – 90.0 | 80.0 – 95.0 | 70.0 – 120.0 | M100 × 2.0 | 240mm² |
🔎 This table is a guide only — always check actual cable specs before final selection.
SWA Gland Selection Guide
When choosing an SWA gland, consider:
- Cable sizes and actual measured cable diameter
- Indoor or outdoor installation
- Dust, water, and corrosion protection
- Accessories such as shrouds and lock nuts
- Material: Brass, plastic, or nickel-plated brass depending on environment
Examples
Here are a few real-world applications where CMP CW SWA cable glands perform exceptionally:
- Power panels in substations requiring bonding and earthing
- Underground installations needing superior sealing and mechanical strength
- Marine and offshore platforms exposed to high moisture and dust
Summary
Whether you’re installing new cabling in a high-voltage zone or replacing a worn SWA gland on legacy equipment, choosing the right armoured cable gland is crucial. The CMP CW series delivers the durability, sealing performance, and ease of installation professionals demand.
Find the right gland for your next project and order confidently with our full range of CMP CW SWA glands — available with next-day delivery and transparent pricing including VAT.
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