Choosing the correct cable gland size is crucial for safety, performance, and longevity across industrial installations. This article provides an authoritative Cable gland size chart and practical guidance for matching threads, diameters, and applications.
A Cable gland size chart is a practical reference used to match thread type, thread size, and cable outer diameter to the correct gland model. Cable glands follow several international standards — Metric (M), PG, NPT, and BSP/G — and the chart simplifies selection, helping engineers and installers eliminate guesswork.
Proper sizing ensures a secure mechanical hold, reliable sealing (IP ratings), strain relief, and long-term durability. Incorrect sizing can cause leaks, cable damage, loss of ingress protection, and potential electrical faults.
In critical sectors such as oil & gas, marine, manufacturing, and automation, precise gland sizing is essential. Mistakes in sizing can lead to cable slippage, moisture ingress, contamination, and in hazardous-area applications, a loss of explosion-proof integrity.
Understanding thread standards is necessary when using a Cable gland size chart. Common series include Metric (M), PG, NPT (tapered), and G/BSP (parallel).
Metric threads are the most commonly used worldwide. Typical sizes run from M12 through M63, with M16, M20, M25, M32 being frequent choices for control and power cabling.
PG is a German legacy standard. PG threads (PG7–PG48) have a different form factor and are still encountered in older equipment or regional installations.
NPT (National Pipe Taper) is common in North America. Because NPT is tapered, sealing behavior differs from parallel-threaded glands and may rely on thread engagement or sealant.
BSP (British Standard Pipe) parallel threads (often labeled G) are used across industrial and offshore equipment. They require correct sealing methods for best IP performance.
An effective sizing chart includes the following fields:
The tables below present common industry reference ranges for Metric, PG, NPT, and BSP/G series. Use manufacturer datasheets to confirm exact clamping ranges for a specific product.
| Metric Size | Thread (mm) | Clamping Range (mm) | Typical Cable Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| M12 | 12 × 1.5 | 3–6.5 | Small sensor cables |
| M16 | 16 × 1.5 | 4–8 | Control cable |
| M20 | 20 × 1.5 | 6–12 | Signal/power |
| M25 | 25 × 1.5 | 9–17 | Industrial power |
| M32 | 32 × 1.5 | 12–21 | Machinery cable |
| M40 | 40 × 1.5 | 19–28 | Heavy power |
| PG Size | Clamping Range (mm) | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
| PG7 | 3–6.5 | Light cables |
| PG9 | 4–8 | Sensors |
| PG11 | 5–10 | Control systems |
| PG13.5 | 6–12 | Panels |
| PG16 | 10–14 | Automation |
| NPT Size | Thread OD (approx) | Clamping Range (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| 1/4" | 13.7 mm | 3–6 |
| 3/8" | 17 mm | 4–8 |
| 1/2" | 21.5 mm | 6–12 |
| 3/4" | 27 mm | 9–17 |
| BSP Size | Thread OD (approx) | Cable Range (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| G1/4 | 13.1 mm | 3–6 |
| G3/8 | 16.7 mm | 4–8 |
| G1/2 | 20.9 mm | 6–12 |
| G1 | 33.3 mm | 12–21 |
Follow these steps to select the proper gland:
When in doubt, consult the manufacturer’s datasheet for the specific gland model. Manufacturer tolerances and seal designs vary.
Typical gland sizes for control panels range from M16 to M25, depending on cable bundles and IP requirements.
Explosive/hazardous-area installations frequently use metallic glands (brass or stainless steel) with size choices such as M20 to M32. Select glands certified for the required hazardous-area class (e.g., Ex d).
Outdoor enclosures needing submersion or high ingress protection often use IP68 rated glands. Sizes like M20 and M25 are common for typical power and signal entries.
Material matters as much as size when environmental conditions are harsh.
When cable screening/shielding is required for EMC performance, use metal glands with an integrated EMC clamp or a separate EMC earthing kit.
For enclosures with bundled cable entries, use multi-hole plates, grommets, or modular multi-gland solutions sized to the combined cable diameters and required IP rating.
Select seal materials rated for the expected operating temperature (e.g., silicone or Viton seals for elevated temperatures) and confirm thermal expansion effects on clamping ranges.
A precise Cable gland size chart is a fundamental tool for safe, reliable, and code-compliant cable installations. By measuring cable OD accurately, matching the clamping range, selecting the correct thread type, and verifying material and IP requirements, engineers and installers can avoid common pitfalls and ensure long-lasting, high-integrity connections across any industrial environment.
For product-specific charts and model data, always consult manufacturer datasheets.
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