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 in both indoors and outdoors. Whether you’re wiring heavy duty equipment, setting up installations in harsh conditions or routing cables through industrial enclosures, you need to choose the right gland size.

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 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 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 outdoors or hazardous locations.

CMP CW Cable Gland: Built for Performance

The CMP CW series is 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 in a wide variety of applications.

Features:

• Two part armour clamping: Independent earthing and mechanical retention.

• Weatherproofing: IP66 rated (with optional accessories up to IP68) for added protection. Shroud and Lock Nut Compatible: Use with a shroud for environmental sealing and a lock nut for panel mounting.

• Durable Materials: Brass, nickel-plated brass, plastic.

• Find the right gland size below.

These glands are for terminating armoured cables in power distribution, automation and electrical infrastructure.

SWA Gland Size (CMP CW Series)

Choosing the right gland size based on cable diameter and outer sheath is important. Find the right one for your SWA cable gland below:

🔎 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 install

• Dust, water and corrosion protection

• Shroud, lock nut or other accessories, Brass or plastic, which is the best suitable material

The CW series is designed for outdoor applications and heavy-duty connections but also suits indoor use cases.

Examples

Here are a few example scenarios where CMP CW SWA cable glands are perfect:

• Power panels in substations requiring bonding and earthing

• Underground installations needing superior seal and mechanical strength

• Marine and offshore platforms with high moisture and dust exposure

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 critical. The CMP CW has the durability, sealing performance and ease of installation professionals demand.

✅ Find the right gland for your next project and order with confidence with our full range of CMP CW SWA glands — all available with next-day delivery and transparent pricing inc VAT.

📧 Need help choosing a gland or ordering by code?
Check out our full selection charts or contact us.