Sealcon Blog

Posted August 21st, 2023 & filed under Cable Glands, Sealcon News.

As digital technology and industrial automation become more integrated into manufacturing processes, dependable panel and control modules are essential for ensuring seamless operations across multiple sectors. From power distribution to process control, these interfaces serve as the nerve center of operations. Reliable cable glands are crucial for panel and control module systems used in manufacturing processes to help assure efficiency and productive systems.

Cable Glands Secure Basic Connectivity

Cable glands, also known as cord grips or cable fittings, are devices designed to secure and protect cables entering enclosures, panels, or control modules. These small but critical components serve essential functions.

Cable Management

In a panel or control module, multiple cables carrying power, data, and signals need to be connected and organized. Cable glands provide a structured and organized way to route cables, preventing tangling or stress on the connections.

Protection From Operating Environment

Panels and control boxes often operate in challenging environments, ranging from extreme temperatures to dust, water, chemical exposure. Cable glands create a barrier against external elements, safeguarding sensitive components and connections from potential damage.

Strain Relief

Cables are subject to movement, vibration, and mechanical stress, especially in industrial settings. Cable glands offer strain relief by anchoring the cables securely, reducing the risk of connections coming loose due to mechanical forces.

Dust and Water Sealing

Quality cable glands incorporate sealing mechanisms, such as gaskets or compression seals, to maintain the integrity of the enclosure. This helps to prevent the actual infiltration of dust, water, or other contaminants into the control panel, thereby enhancing the longevity and reliability of the system.

Why Choosing The Right Cable Glands is Essential

There are many reasons why the choice of what cable glands to use in your control system is very important. Choosing a well-specified, quality cable gland provides project benefits such as:

Design Flexibility

Cable glands are available in various sizes and materials to accommodate different cable types and diameters. Manufacturers can select the appropriate cable gland to match the specific requirements of their designs, allowing for greater flexibility in cable routing and installation.

Ease of Installation

Cable glands are designed for easy installation, often requiring minimal tools. Their straightforward assembly reduces the time and effort required for cable management, thus streamlining the manufacturing process.

Reduced Downtime

In manufacturing, downtime can result in substantial financial losses. Reliable cable glands contribute to the overall performance of the process, minimizing the risk of cable-related failures and costly interruptions.

Regulatory Compliance

Many manufacturing industries are subject to stringent safety and regulatory standards. Properly installed cable glands ensure that systems adhere to these standards, avoiding potential legal and operational challenges.

Sealcon is Your Source for Dependable Connectivity Solutions

Sealcon cable glands deliver performance and reliability in a diverse range of manufacturing environments. Our extensive product line includes a diverse range products with attributes designed for specific application needs, such as:

Low Smoke / Halogen & Phosphorous Free Products: V0 Flame Rated, Ideal for applications requiring a low smoke environment, Non-Toxic according to UL94.
Submersible & Liquid Tight: Perfect product for a spray down or submersed application.
Unsurpassed IP68 / NEMA 4X & 6 / 10 BAR (150 PSIG) Rating. The patented form seal (Grommet Around Cable) allows products to be installed in up to 300 ft
Outdoor / UV Exposure: Our products are ideal for outdoors. All of our black Nylon Strain. Relief Fittings are made with a UL f1 (746C) UV & Ozone Stable Material & ACME thread.
NEMA Installation: All of our Cable Strain Relief Fittings come with a Patented O-Ring Groove, resulting in a liquid tight seal between fitting and installation when used with a correct o-ring.
Anti-Vibration: Sealcon’s Cable Strain Relief Fittings feature notches molded into the dome nut to prevent the dome from coming loose from the Cable Gland body. This is referred to as a safety ratchet system.
Approvals & Certifications: Our products are UL, UR, CSA, VDE, CE, PCT Gost, German Lloyd (GL), TUV, RoHS, Deca BDE, ATEX, IECEx, Ex-e and Ex-d.

Through our extensive application experience our team can help you find the right cable glands and other connectivity products for your application.

Posted July 14th, 2023 & filed under Cable Glands, Connector, Hazardous Areas, Sealcon News.

The food processing industry has embraced automation, and indications are that its adoption in the food and beverage industry is expanding rapidly. According to a robotics report by the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), in 2021, “the food and beverage industry installed 25% more robots, reaching a new peak level.” A reason for this growth, the report suggests, may be that the robotics industry offered hygienic solutions, which were in demand during the Covid-19 pandemic.

In addition to improved quality control and enhanced food safety, automation offers benefits such as increased efficiency, reduced labor costs, and scalability. These production advantages were also especially important during the shut-downs and in the post-pandemic economy.

How Automation Improved Food Processing Operations

Automation has continued to play a significant role in the food and beverage industry due to its ability to be seamlessly integrated into the many processes and operations required in this industry. Robots can perform repetitive tasks with high precision and speed, such as sorting, grading, packaging, and palletizing. They can handle delicate food items and work in environments that have extreme temperatures or hazardous conditions. Some examples include:

Automated Sorting and Grading – Optical sensors and computer vision technology are used to automate the sorting and grading of fruits, vegetables, and other food products. These systems can quickly analyze size, color, shape, and quality parameters to separate products.

Automated Packaging – Automated packaging systems can fill, seal, and label products at high speeds. They ensure consistency in portion sizes and packaging quality, reducing human error and improving overall efficiency.

Quality Control and Inspection – Food products must be inspected for defects, contaminants, and inconsistencies. Advanced technologies such as machine vision and X-ray imaging help identify impurities or product variations.

Process Monitoring and Control: Automation enables real-time monitoring and control of various food processing parameters. Sensors and data analytics are employed to track factors such as temperature, humidity, pressure, and ingredient levels.

Automated Food Preparation – Large-scale food production facilities are using automation to streamline food preparation tasks such as chopping, slicing, and mixing processes. Product quality is improved, labor is reduced, and production is increased.

Smart Warehousing and Logistics – Automated systems, such as conveyor belts, robotic palletizers, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs), are used for efficient material handling, inventory management, and order fulfillment.

Data-driven Decision Making – Automation data is analyzed using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms to optimize processes, predict maintenance needs, identify production inefficiencies, and enhance overall operational performance.

Sealcon Connectivity Solutions Power Food Processing Automation

Sealcon offers a wide range of components that are ideally suited for connectivity needs in food processing automation including cable glands and metric circular connectors. Dependable Sealcon connectors are also enabling plants in food processing and other industries to retool equipment for connectivity with digital systems. Stainless steel and other specially formulated material options provide desirable food industry characteristics such as antimicrobial properties and corrosion resistance.

Nylon Dome and Flex Fittings

Made from superior high-grade materials using innovative technology, Sealcon nylon dome and flex fittings meet the highest demands of quality and security.

PVDF Strain Relief Connectors – The PVDF strain relief connector fitting, also known as a cable gland or cord grip fitting, is popular for food and beverage applications and clean room applications as well as high temperature environments

316L Stainless Steel Hygienic RG Gland – Our FP and RG Glands may be safely used in producing, manufacturing, packing, processing, preparing, treating, packaging, transporting, or holding food.

FDA compliant materials, 21CFR177.2600, 2014
UL Certified
NEMA 6 (IP68) Ideal for foam cleaning and hose down
Sizes: M12, M16, M20, M25 and M32
Temperature range: -40ºF to 248ºF (-40ºC to 120ºC)
EMI ready for braided cables
Stainless steel bell houses
Liquid Tight NEMA 6 (IP68)
PSIG Rated Strain Relief Connectors / Cable Glands / Cord Grip Connectors

Circular Connectors

Sealcon circular connectors are ideal for automation integration in food processing industry applications. Sealcon offers a vast portfolio of circular connectors to meet your requirements.

Sizes: M12, M16, M23, M27, M40
Signal, Power, Fast Ethernet, PoE, RJ45, and Hybrid varieties
Liquid tight
Low profile and durable
Options for hazardous and increased safety areas
UV protection
IP submersion rating

Sealcon circular connectors eliminate the need for rewiring and allow flexibility in equipment configuration. Many locking connector styles are available including standard threaded screw lock, Twilock ¼ turn connection system, and Twilock-S which mates to SpeedTEC® by Intercontec / TE connectivity.

Advantages of Sealcon Products in Food Processing Automation

Sealcon is your source for high quality, reliable connectors and cable glands that meet a wide range of food processing industry demands and challenges.

IP69K (Splash Rated)
Non-Corrosive, Non-Flaking, Fungus Resistant
Smooth surface (no cavities, no sharp corners) preventing material from sticking
High / Low Temperature
Deca BDE
RoHS
UL Ratings
Metric, NPT, PG

Wide Range of In-Stock Sizes – over 6,000 to choose from
Ready to Ship
Technical Assistance

Posted June 26th, 2023 & filed under Connector, Sealcon News.

*Photo by Khwanchai Phanthong at Vecteezy*

In today’s age of automation, a reliable connection is required for the transmission of data, power, and signal to complete an operation or function. In the past, a mechanical device may have only operated by an on/off function by the use of a power cord, but with technological advances, now data and signal connections are both required for the monitoring of system operations. For example, motors ae not only connected by just power, but also by signal and data to record information such as RPM’s, wear sensor data, temperature readings and much more. This allows operators of equipment to monitor devices to minimize downtime from excessive wear of components that may fail leading to increased efficiency and profitability. This also allows additional data to be accumulated that can benefit a company for future development and design.

Sealcon offers a wide selection of circular connectors in either nickel plated brass or stainless steel to connect components within equipment to maintain a reliable transfer of data, signal, and power. But how do you determine what is the best type and style of connector to use for your application? Many options are available, but by answering a few questions, the correct type of connector can be determined that will work best for your application.

Determining The Type of Connector Required

The first question to ask when determining what type of connector you may need for your project is what will you be transmitting? Sealcon offers a wide variety of connectors in Power, Signal, Ethernet, PoE (power over ethernet), RJ45, and hybrid options that will transfer power, signal, and ethernet all within one connector!

Determining The Size of The Connector

As with every design, when a product or piece of equipment is being developed, size limitations may impact what size of connectors you may be able to use. Sealcon offers connectors that range in size from M12 all the way up to M40. Theoretically, a larger connector will give you a larger transmission of power or more pin availability for when you are using a signal connector, but in the age of miniaturization, high power can now be also transmitted within a smaller footprint. For example, Sealcon’s M12 Power connector is capable of transmitting up to 16 Amps and 630 volts, something that normally requires a much larger connector.

Determining The “Shell/Housing” Style of The Connector

Different applications require different styles of connectors. When designing an application, you may need to connect a connector into a panel or you may have space restrictions that require a different style of connector. Sealcon offers its connectors in multiple styles including straight, right angle, swivel, panel mount, single whole, rear mount and many more. This allows you to design your product to be the most efficient and productive rather than having to design around limited connection options.

Determining The Amount of Pins Or Sockets That Are Needed

Sealcon offers a vast range of pin and socket configurations for connectors. Each connector has a range of pin and socket options depending on the size of shell and what is being transmitted whether it be signal, data, or power. For example, our M23 power connectors can have a possibly of 5 to 10 pins or sockets. Alternatively, our M27 has capabilities of up to 28 pins or sockets for signal transmission! In addition, Sealcon offers hybrid connectors allowing for signal, data, and ethernet all within either a M16, M27, or M40 shell.

Determining The Connection Thread Type

Every engineer has their preference of thread connections for connectors and Sealcon offers 3 different types to provide a solution for everyone. Sealcon connectors come in not only a standard threaded screw type connection, but they also are available in a Twilock ¼ turn connection system for ease of use in limited space. When designing a system, you may have limited access to a connector and a ¼ turn option is perfect. It is clearly marked with open or closed labeling and clicks when engaged offering a reassurance of a reliable connection. Sealcon also offers a Twilock-S ¼ turn option that is intermateable to Speedtec® by Intercontec/TE Connectivity.

With so many options available and styles, it can be overwhelming to configure a connector. Luckily, Sealcon has a team of technical sales advisors that can work with you from the beginning of a project all the way through to delivery. In addition, 3D CAD files as well as data sheets and approval documents are available for you! To find out more, contact a Sealcon representative at 303-699-1135 or visit www.SealconUSA.com.

#CircularConnectors, #M12Connectors, #M23Connectors, #Automation, #Connectors, #RoboTuesday

Posted June 1st, 2023 & filed under Cable Glands, Sealcon News.

Photo by lucy3chihuahua212291 at Vecteezy

Governments around the world are strongly encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) through incentives like tax credits, rebates, and grants. Governmental pressure through legislation is growing for the implementation of EV technology, not only in the private sector, but for a wide range of government fleet vehicles.

The goal of reducing emissions and combating climate change is leading governments around the world to hasten the transition to EV through government mandates. For example, the city of Los Angeles is transitioning municipal fleet vehicles such as police cars, buses, and waste management trucks in its Zero Emissions 2028 Roadmap.

Other examples include:

Postal Services – The United States Postal Service (USPS) has set a goal of replacing its entire fleet of delivery trucks with electric vehicles by 2035.
Government Agencies – Several government agencies are requiring the purchase of a certain percentage of EVs for their fleets.
Utility Fleet Vehicles – Off-road EVs are also being implemented, including forklifts, mowers, agricultural tractors, airport ground support equipment, and similar work vehicles.

EV Infrastructure Needed to Support Expanding EV Use

As governments increase interventions to ensure the adoption of electric vehicles, there comes a corresponding demand for adequate charging infrastructure. EV fleet operators will need charging stations that can accommodate multiple vehicles at once and charge them quickly to minimize downtime.

The development of charging stations that can charge multiple vehicles simultaneously, such as high-power chargers and charging hubs, requires specialized components and assemblies that meet application-specific challenges and requirements. A key requirement is that they must be designed and built to withstand outdoor environments. Resistance to water leakage and UV damage is essential for the connection components in charging stations.

Sealcon is serving the needs of charging station manufacturers with a number of connector products and cable glands which are ideally suited for these applications.

Sealcon Offers Cable Glands / Cord Grips / Connectors to Meet the Needs of EV Applications

Sealcon dome and flex glands provide a water-tight seal that is not only perfect for EV market applications. Not only are they used in electric vehicles, but also charging station components and assemblies. Used inside the station on components like sensing devices or metering devices, these connectors can be specified in nickel plated brass, or nylon to offer UV, ozone, and corrosion resistance.

Selacon BXA and BXI series cable glands / strain relief connectors / cord grips are environmentally compliant and come with safety ratchets built into the dome to prevent the dome top from coming loose under vibration. These cable glands can withstand a 7 Joule impact without breaking due to fiber reinforced construction.

Sealcon circular connectors are available in power as well as signal versions, and used to connect multiple devices within the equipment for easy installation, removal, and repair. In addition to power, many components within EV charging stations are also moving data. Dependable performance is critical and highly dependent upon stable connectivity.

Benefits Sealcon Products Offer EV Applications

Ideal for Outdoor Applications
UL Rating
IP Submersion Rating
Wide Range of In-Stock Sizes

Ready to Ship
Technical Assistance

Manufacturers of critical EV infrastructure can depend on Sealcon for high quality, reliable connectors delivered on time. Contact us to discuss your project and get a free quote.

Posted May 1st, 2023 & filed under Cable Glands, Sealcon News.

In our highly electronic and digitized world, cords, wires, and cables of all sizes and capacities are ubiquitous. Dependable cable management performance is essential for cords and cables to provide power transmission, data transfer, networking, and more without damage. Since they are used in a diverse range of environments, cable glands with unique characteristics are required to assure reliable, fail-safe connectivity.

It is easy to take cable management for granted by overlooking the unique application demands that affect their performance. These essential components are engineered and designed with specific characteristics such as the ability to perform in harsh, abrasive environments, under water, and in extreme temperatures. Successful electronic and digital processes require the right cable gland for the application.

Specifying the right cable gland for a given application and environment begins with an understanding of cable gland terminology.

Cord Grips, Cable Glands, and Strain Relief Connectors

Throughout the electronics industry, cable management can be identified as cord grips, cable glands, and strain relief connectors. While the different names may imply different functions, the function of each of these is basically the same and is just a different name for the same type of product. The job of a cable gland is to protect cables and wires from pulling out and causing damage, and also to protect anything that is passing through the cord, from one side to the other.

While the various types of cable glands are largely interchangeable, the terms used to describe them differ, causing confusion for those who are not well acquainted with the industry. In many cases, the term used to describe a cable gland will allude to the attributes it possesses. For example,

The term “cord grip” is often used to describe how the cable gland is designed to grip the cable tightly, preventing it from slipping out of the enclosure.
The term “cable gland” may be used to describe a style of product that are used in industrial and outdoor applications that require protection. They are designed to provide a watertight or dust proof seal to protect the enclosure and its contents from environmental factors.
The term “strain relief” may be applied to a cable gland that is designed to provide a strain-free connection to a cable. It is anchored securely to an enclosure or device, keeping it from being pulled out or damaged due to tension or strain on the cable.

Consider Cable Characteristics When Specifying Cable Glands

Understanding that all cable glands provide the same basic function regardless of the terminology used, means the next step in determining the type of cable gland you need will involve looking at the nature of your application and what attributes are required of the equipment being used. But not all cable glands are designed and manufactured the same and quality and reliability is key to ensure performance of your application.

At Sealcon, we offer cable gland with a variety of important characteristics that assure dependable operation in virtually any application:

Pull Out Resistance and Cable Protection

Overlapping clamping splines apply concentric pressure to seal and cable, preventing the form seal from being pulled out of the fitting. This ensures pull-out protection without cable damage.

Submersible

The patented recess and high performance form seal (grommet) guarantees NEMA 4x & 6 (IP68 / IP69K) at 150 PSIG (10 bar) pressure rating.

Rugged Construction

The self locking ACME thread prevents the dome or flex nut from being pulled out under extreme lateral force.

Liquid Tight

Molded O-Ring groove with O-Ring results in a liquid tight seal between Fitting and Installation.

Outdoor / UV Exposure

Ideal for outdoors, our black Nylon Strain Relief Fittings are made with a UL f1 (746C) UV & ozone stable material and ACME thread.

Anti-Vibration

Sealcon Cable Strain Relief Fittings feature a safety ratchet system that includes notches molded into the dome nut to prevent the dome from coming loose from the connector body.

Advantages of Sealcon Products

Once you have identified the right cable gland for your process, you will need to find the right supplier to reliably meet your needs with quality products and the support you need for a successful application. Whatever the job, Sealcon offers a cable management product that will meet and exceed expectations with the following advantages:

UL Ratings
Black Nylon with ULF1 UV Protection – Sealcon Exclusive
IP68 Submersion Rating – Up to 300 ft
Metric, NPT, PG
Wide Range of In-Stock Sizes – over 6,000 to choose from
Ready to Ship
Technical Assistance

Trust Sealcon for high quality, reliable cord grips, cable glands, and strain relief connectors that meet the demands and challenges of your most demanding applications. We’ll get you the connectors you need on time and within budget. Contact us to discuss your project and get a free quote.

Dependable Cable Glands for Panel and Control Modules in Manufacturing