Flame retardant cable gland with checkable quick connector

Abstract

A cable gland assembly includes a hub body wherein an outer portion of a second end of the hub body includes a plurality of threaded portions; an intermediate body having a first end and a second end, the first end disposed within the hub body, the second end having an annular protrusion disposed about an outer portion of the second end of the intermediate body and proximate the second end of the hub body, the second end having an external thread; a union nut defining an internal passage receiving the intermediate body and the second end of the hub body, the first end of the union nut threadingly engaging the multi-threaded portion of the hub body, screwing the union nut along the multi-threaded portion securing the intermediate body in the hub body; the first end of the gland nut is in threaded connection with the external thread of the second end of the middle body.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Indian Provisional Application No. 202311076984 filed on November 10, 2023. This application also claims priority to Indian Provisional Application No. 202411065250 filed on August 29, 2024. The disclosure of each of these applications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to cable glands and more particularly to a cable gland having a union nut configured for quick release. Background Art

[0004] Cable glands are used to terminate cables in hazardous and non-hazardous environments. More specifically, cable glands generally provide a method of terminating cables at junction boxes, control centers, switchboards, enclosures, structures, etc., where cables such as unarmored cables (e.g., TC-type) and armored cables are used. Known cable glands are used to seal joints between cables and equipment or structures into which the cables extend.

[0005] Furthermore, existing cable gland assemblies may be assembled from several parts. At various times, it may be necessary to disassemble or reassemble the cable assembly, particularly for inspection purposes or to apply sealants. During the disassembly process, many parts of a conventional cable gland may come apart, including those that do not need to be separated for the purpose of disassembly. This makes the disassembly and reassembly of the cable gland assembly more complicated, time-consuming, and prone to error. Furthermore, environmental debris may enter the cable gland from the mating points of certain parts because the conventional cable gland assembly may not provide a sufficiently reliable seal between certain parts. This may cause degradation of the cable or conductor and reduce the quality of the cable gland. Summary of the invention

[0006] In one embodiment, a cable gland assembly includes a hub body having a first end configured to be threadedly coupled to a structure and a second end opposite to the first end, wherein an outer portion of the second end of the hub body includes a plurality of threaded portions, and the hub body defines an internal passage. The cable gland assembly also includes an intermediate body extending along an axis, the intermediate body having a first end and a second end, the intermediate body defining an internal passage configured to receive a cable, the first end of the intermediate body being disposed within the internal passage of the hub body, the second end extending axially beyond the second end of the hub body, the second end also having an annular protrusion disposed around the first outer portion of the second end of the intermediate body and proximate to the second end of the hub body, and the second end also having an external thread extending axially beyond the annular protrusion along the second outer portion of the intermediate body. The cable gland assembly also includes a union nut having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the union nut defining an internal passage for receiving the intermediate body and the second end of the hub body, the first end of the union nut threadedly engaging the multi-segment threaded portion of the hub body, the second end of the union nut having a shoulder abutting against the annular protrusion of the intermediate body, wherein the union nut is screwed along the multi-segment threaded portion of the hub body to fix the intermediate body in the internal passage of the hub body. The cable gland assembly also includes a gland nut having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the gland nut defining an internal passage configured to receive a cable, the first end of the gland nut threadedly engaging the external thread of the second end of the intermediate body, the second end of the gland nut having a shoulder.

[0007] In another embodiment, a cable gland assembly includes a hub body extending along an axis, the hub body having a first end configured to be threadedly connected to a structure and a second end opposite the first end, the hub body defining an internal passage along the axis, the internal passage being configured to receive a portion of the cable, and the second end of the hub body including a hole extending perpendicularly to the axis into the internal passage of the hub body. The cable gland assembly also includes an intermediate body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the intermediate body defining an internal passage, the internal passage being configured to receive a portion of the cable, wherein the first end of the intermediate body is received in the hub body, the first end of the intermediate body having a blind hole, wherein the blind hole is aligned with the hub body hole and extends perpendicularly to the axis into the intermediate body. The cable gland assembly also includes a dowel pin configured to be inserted into the hub body hole and the intermediate body blind hole to secure the intermediate body in the hub body. The cable gland assembly also includes a gland nut having a first end and an opposite second end, the gland nut defining an internal passage configured to receive a portion of the cable, the first end of the gland nut receiving the second end of the intermediate body so that the first end of the gland nut threadably engages the threads of the second end of the intermediate body, and the first end of the gland nut is assembled within the internal passage of the hub body.

[0008] In another embodiment, a cable gland assembly includes a hub body having a first end configured to be threadedly coupled to a structure and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the second end of the hub body includes a hole for retaining a ball bearing, and the hub body defines an internal passage. The cable gland assembly also includes an intermediate body extending along an axis, the intermediate body having a first end and a second end, the intermediate body defining an internal passage, the internal passage configured to receive a cable, the first end of the intermediate body being disposed within the internal passage of the hub body, the first end having a passage aligned with the hole in the hub body, the passage receiving the ball bearing through the hole in the hub body, the second end of the intermediate body extending axially beyond the second end of the hub body, and the second end of the intermediate body having external threads. The cable gland assembly also includes a union collar having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, wherein the union collar is substantially annular such that the union collar includes an axial outer surface and an axial inner surface, the axial inner surface of the union collar defines an internal passageway for receiving the second end of the hub body, the axial inner surface including a protrusion that engages with the ball bearing when the union collar is in the first position and disengages from the ball bearing when the union collar is in the second position. The cable gland assembly also includes a gland nut having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the gland nut defining an internal passageway configured to receive a cable, the first end of the gland nut being configured to threadably engage the external threads of the second end of the intermediate body, and the second end of the gland nut having a shoulder.

[0009] In yet another embodiment, a cable gland assembly includes a hub body having a first end configured to be threadedly coupled to a structure and a second end opposite the first end, wherein an outer portion of the second end of the hub body includes a plurality of threaded portions, and the hub body defines an internal passage. The cable gland assembly also includes an intermediate body extending along an axis, the intermediate body having a first end and a second end, the intermediate body defining an internal passage, the first end of the intermediate body being disposed within the internal passage of the hub body, the second end extending axially beyond the second end of the hub body, the second end further having a collar, the intermediate body further having an internal thread along a portion of the internal passage and proximate the second end of the intermediate body. The cable gland assembly also includes an elbow body having a first end and a second end, the elbow body further having an angular bend disposed between the first end and the second end of the elbow body, the elbow body defining an internal passage, the first end of the elbow body being threadably engaged with the internal thread of the intermediate body, and the second end of the elbow body including an external thread. The cable gland assembly also includes a union nut having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the union nut defining an internal passage, the internal passage receiving the first end of the intermediate body and the second end of the hub body, the first end of the union nut threadedly engaging the multi-segment threaded portion of the hub body, the second end of the union nut having a shoulder abutting against the intermediate body collar, wherein the union nut is screwed along the multi-segment threaded portion of the hub body to secure the intermediate body in the internal passage of the hub body. The cable gland assembly also includes a gland nut having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the gland nut defining an internal passage, the first end of the gland nut threadedly engaging the external thread of the second end of the elbow body, and the second end of the gland nut having a shoulder. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] In the accompanying drawings, structures are shown that, together with the detailed description provided below, describe exemplary embodiments of the claimed invention. Identical elements are identified with the same reference numerals. It should be understood that elements shown as a single component may be replaced with multiple components, and elements shown as multiple components may also be replaced with a single component. The drawings are not drawn to scale, and the proportions of certain elements may be exaggerated for illustrative purposes.

[0011] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a cable gland assembly,

[0012] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an exemplary hub body and union nut having a multi-segment threaded portion,

[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A side view of an exemplary hub body,

[0014] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A second end perspective view of an exemplary hub body,

[0015] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a cable gland assembly including a flat head screw,

[0016] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a cable gland assembly including a spring loaded plunger,

[0017] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a cable gland assembly including a union collar,

[0018] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A side view of the cable gland assembly, and

[0019] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a cable gland assembly including an elbow body.

[0020] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a cable gland assembly including a rotation resistance feature,

[0021] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 A perspective exploded view of the second end of the cable gland assembly,

[0022] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 A first end perspective view of an exemplary hub body and an exemplary intermediate body of a cable gland assembly of

[0023] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A second end perspective cross-sectional view of the hub body and the intermediate body,

[0024] Figure 14 yes Figure 12 a second end perspective view of the hub body, and

[0025] Figure 15 yes Figure 12 A first end stereoscopic view of the intermediate body. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] A known flame retardant cable gland includes a hub body for threaded engagement with a structure, an intermediate body for threaded engagement with the hub body, and a gland nut for threaded engagement with the intermediate body. Therefore, this configuration of fixing the cable in the cable gland requires the installer to screw three different parts. In addition, some known cable glands need to be disassembled or reassembled. During the disassembly process, many parts of the known cable gland may be separated, including those parts that do not need to be separated for the purpose of disassembly. This makes the disassembly and reassembly of the cable gland assembly more complicated, time-consuming and prone to errors. In addition, environmental debris may enter the cable gland from the mating points of certain parts because the known cable gland may not provide a sufficiently reliable seal between certain parts. This may cause cable degradation and reduce the quality of the cable gland. An example of where it may be necessary to disassemble an existing cable gland is to apply a sealant in the hub body. Applying the sealant requires removing the union nut and the gland nut to access the internal passage of the hub body. This process is time-consuming and may cause system failure if the accessories are not replaced correctly. The present disclosure overcomes these and other defects in the prior art.

[0027] Figure 1 , a first exemplary embodiment of a cable gland assembly extending along an axis A is depicted in . More specifically, the cable gland assembly 100 is a flame retardant cable gland assembly that is configured to seal a joint between a cable 110 and a device or structure into which the cable 110 extends. In the illustrated embodiment, the cable 110 includes a cable jacket 112 disposed about a cable armor structure 114 that houses an inner wire or cable 116. As explained in more detail below, the cable gland assembly 100 includes a union nut 106 that is threadably coupled to a hub body 102 using a quick connector such that the union nut 106 can be disengaged from the hub body 102 within one rotation of the union nut 106. The other components of the cable gland assembly 100 described below are illustrative, and other designs or configurations are possible.

[0028] The cable gland assembly 100 includes a hub body 102, an intermediate body 104, a union nut 106, and a gland nut 108, wherein the cable gland assembly 100 is configured to secure a portion of a cable 110 therein. The hub body 102 has a first end 102A having an external connection thread 118 for screwing into a device, housing, or other structure. The hub body 102 also includes a second end 102B having a multi-segment threaded portion 120, the multi-segment threaded portion 120 including a multi-segment thread for threading with the union nut 106. The hub body 102 also includes an internal passage extending through the first end 102A and the second end 102B of the hub body 102. The hub body 102 can be made of metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass. The hub body 102 also includes a tool coupling portion 122 (e.g., a hexagonal or other polygonal structure) to help tighten the hub body 102 to the structure.

[0029] The hub body 102 receives the intermediate body 104 in the internal passage of the hub body 102. The intermediate body 104 has a first end 104A and a second end 104B opposite the first end 104A. The first end 104A of the intermediate body 104 is disposed in the internal passage of the hub body 104. The second end 104B of the intermediate body 104 extends axially outward beyond the second end 102B of the hub body 102. The second end 104B of the intermediate body 104 includes an annular protrusion 124 disposed around a first portion 126 of an outer surface of the intermediate body 104. The annular protrusion 124 is disposed on the second end 104B of the intermediate body 104 at a position close to the second end 102B of the hub body 102. The second end 104B of the intermediate body 104 also includes an external thread 128 disposed around a second portion 130 of the outer surface of the intermediate body 104. The external thread 128 of the second end 104B of the intermediate body 104 is configured to mate with and be coupled to the gland nut 102. The second portion 130 of the outer surface of the intermediate body 104 is axially rearward of the first portion 126 of the outer surface of the intermediate body 104 such that the annular protrusion 124 is located between the second end 102B of the hub body 102 and the outer threads 128 of the intermediate body 104 .

[0030] The intermediate body 104 also includes an internal passage 132 extending through the first end 104A and the second end 104B of the intermediate body 104. The internal passage 132 is configured to receive a portion of the cable 110 therein. The intermediate body 104 can be made of a metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass. The cable gland assembly 100 can also include a fire channel 134. The fire channel 134 is a small passage disposed between the inner surface of the hub body 102 and the outer surface of the intermediate body 104. The fire channel 134 is configured to allow hot or volatile gases contained within the structure to slowly dissipate from the structure. The fire channel 134 mitigates the accumulation of gases within the structure, which, if not mitigated, may result in catastrophic failure of the system. In addition, the fire channel 134 can be configured so that it allows the hot gases dissipated through the fire channel 134 to cool as the gases pass through the fire channel 134 and exit the cable gland assembly 100.

[0031] The cable gland assembly 100 may also include a compound chamber 136 disposed within the intermediate body 104 proximate the first end 104A of the intermediate body 104. The compound chamber 136 is configured to receive a curable sealing compound (also referred to herein as a compound sealant). When cured, the sealing compound acts as a sealant within the cable gland assembly 100 that restricts the ingress and passage of gases, vapors, or flames into and through the cable gland assembly 100. Suitable examples of sealing compounds include, but are not limited to, epoxy fillers and Chico® sealing compounds commercially available from Eaton Corporation PLC.

[0032] The union nut 106 includes a first end 106A and a second end 106B opposite the first end 106A. The union nut 106 also includes an internal passage 140 extending through the first end 106A and the second end 106B. The first end of the union nut 106A includes a multi-segment threaded portion 142. The multi-segment threaded portion 142 includes a multi-segment thread that is configured to mate and couple with the multi-segment thread 120 of the hub body 102. The multi-segment thread 142 of the union nut 106 is disposed along an axial inner surface 144 of the union nut 106. The multi-segment threaded portion 142 of the union nut 106 and the multi-segment threaded portion 120 of the hub body 102 are configured as a quick connector so that the union nut 106 can be screwed in one turn or less to threadably engage the hub body 102 and loosened to threadably disengage the hub body 102. In an alternative embodiment, the union nut 106 can be turned in two turns or less to threadably engage the hub body 102 and loosened to threadably disengage the hub body 102. In an alternative embodiment, the multi-threaded portions 120, 142 of the hub body 102 and the union nut 106 can be composed of standard threaded portions.

[0033] The second end 106B of the union nut 106 includes a shoulder 146 such that the opening at the first end 106B of the union nut 106 is wider than the opening at the second end 106B of the union nut 106. The internal passage 140 of the union nut 106 receives the intermediate body 104 such that the annular protrusion 124 of the intermediate body 104 abuts the union nut shoulder 146. The shoulder 146 limits the axial movement of the intermediate body 104 along the axis A such that the intermediate body 104 can only be inserted into the internal passage 140 of the union nut 106 until the annular protrusion 124 contacts the shoulder 146. The shoulder 146 further limits the axial movement of the intermediate body 104 such that screwing the multi-segment threaded portion 142 of the union nut 106 into the multi-segment threaded portion 120 of the hub body 102 secures the intermediate body 104 in the internal passage of the hub body 102. The intermediate body 104 cannot be removed from the internal passageway of the hub body 102 unless and until the union nut 106 is disengaged from the hub body 102 such that the shoulder 146 of the union nut 106 does not abut the intermediate body annular protrusion 124 .

[0034] Reference now Figures 2 to 4 , which depicts exemplary multi-segment threaded portions 410, 420 of an exemplary hub body 412 and an exemplary union nut 422. Figure 1 There are slight differences between the exemplary hub body 412 and the exemplary union nut 422 compared to the hub body 102 and the union nut 106 of FIG. 1 , but the functions of these components are the same. The multi-segment threads 410 , 420 are configured to reduce the number of rotations required to tighten the union nut 422 to the hub body 412 . The exemplary multi-segment threaded portions 410 , 420 are comprised of 1"-10 (ten threads per inch) threaded portions. The multi-segment threaded portions 410 , 420 include ten start leads 414 that correspond to threads 416 , 426 at ten threads per inch. In this configuration, each rotation of the union nut 420 translates one inch.

[0035] Reference again Figure 1, the gland nut 108 includes a first end 108A and a second end 108B opposite the first end 108A. The gland nut 108 also includes an internal passage extending through the first end 108A and the second end 108B of the gland nut 108. The gland nut internal passage is configured to receive a portion of the cable 110 therethrough. The first end 108A of the gland nut 108 includes an opening sized to accommodate the second end 104B of the intermediate body 104. The first end 108A of the gland nut 108 includes an internal thread 148, which is configured to mate and threadably engage with the external thread 128 of the second end 104B of the intermediate body 104. The second end 108B of the gland nut 108 includes a shoulder 150 so that the opening at the first end 108A is wider than the opening at the second end 108B. The gland nut may be made of a metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass.

[0036] The cable gland assembly 100 also includes a circlip 152, a sleeve 154, a bushing 156, and a washer 158 disposed within the internal passage of the gland nut 108. The circlip 152 is located between the second end 104B of the intermediate body 104 and the sleeve 154. The sleeve 154 is located between the circlip 152 and the bushing 156. The sleeve 154 is configured to engage the circlip 152 and the bushing 156 so that the sleeve 154 axially compresses the circlip 152 and the bushing 156. The sleeve 154 can be constructed or formed of, for example, plastic or metal (such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass). The washer 158 is disposed between the bushing 156 and the shoulder 150 of the gland nut 108, proximate to the second end 108B of the gland nut 108. When the cable gland assembly 100 is assembled, the washer 158 distributes the load applied by the shoulder 150 of the gland nut 108. The gasket 158 ​​may be constructed or formed from, for example, a plastic such as polyamide.

[0037] When the cable gland assembly is assembled, the circlip 152 is compressed between the second end 104B of the intermediate body 104 and the sleeve 154. When compressed, the circlip 152 engages and surrounds the cable armor structure 114 to form a ground connection. In addition, the circlip 152 can be configured to act as an armor stopper that limits the insertion of the cable jacket 112 and the cable armor structure 114 of the cable 110 into the cable gland assembly 100 by stripping the cable jacket 112 and the cable armor structure 114 to expose the inner wires or cables 116. The circlip 152 can be made of metal, such as stainless steel with a copper flash coating.

[0038] The bushing 156 includes a bushing body 160 having a generally annular shape, the inner surface of which defines a bushing opening 162 extending through the first and second ends of the bushing bodies 160A, 160B. Ribs 164 are disposed on the inner surface of the bushing body. The ribs 164 extend around the axis A and extend radially inward from the inner surface toward the axis A. In the illustrated embodiment, the ribs 164 are continuous rings extending along the inner surface. The ribs 164 can be disposed in a midplane that extends through the bushing body 160 transversely to the axis A at a generally midpoint between the first and second ends of the bushing bodies 160A, 160B. The ribs 164 can be disposed at other locations along the axis A of the bushing body 160. The ribs 164 have a suitable cross-sectional shape for engaging and sealing around the cable 110 housed in the cable gland assembly 100.

[0039] The cable 110 is fixed in the cable gland assembly 100 by the circlip 152 and the bushing 156. The cable gland assembly 100 is configured so that the cable 110 remains fixed in the intermediate body 104 and the gland nut 108 even when the union nut 106 is disengaged from the hub body 102. As described above, when the gland nut is threadedly coupled to the intermediate body 104, the gland nut 108 fixes a portion of the cable 110 in the intermediate body 104 and the gland nut 108 by compressing the cable 110 in the circlip 152 and the bushing 156. Therefore, as long as the gland nut 108 is threadedly coupled to the intermediate body 104, the circlip 152 and the bushing 156 remain in a compressed state, thereby fixing the cable 110 therein. This allows the union nut 106 to be disengaged from the cable gland assembly 100 without affecting the fixation of the cable 110.

[0040] After the union nut 106 is disengaged from the hub body 102, the intermediate body 104 can be removed from the internal passage of the hub body 102. After the intermediate body 104 is removed from the internal passage of the hub body 102, an operator can apply a compound sealant or inspect a previously applied compound sealant in the compound chamber 136 of the internal passage 132 of the intermediate body 104. Since the intermediate body 104 is received in the hub body 102 without fasteners or threads, the operator can remove the intermediate body 104 by simply loosening the union nut 106 to apply a compound sealant or inspect a previously applied sealant.

[0041] In one embodiment, the cable gland assembly 100 has a 1 / 2 gauge model fitting for 0.50 inch cable. The cable gland assembly 100 has a diagonal width BB less than or equal to 1.24 inches, and a sealing range of 0.50-0.78 inches. The cable gland assembly is an improvement over conventional cable glands, which have a diagonal width greater than 1.24 in to achieve a similar sealing range.

[0042] A second exemplary embodiment of a cable gland assembly extending along axis C is shown in FIG. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown. The cable gland assembly 200 includes a hub body 202, an intermediate body 204 and a gland nut 206, wherein the cable gland assembly 200 is configured to fix a portion of a cable therein. The hub body 202 has a first end 202A and a second end 202B opposite the first end. The hub body 202 also includes an internal passage extending through the first end 202A and the second end 202B of the hub body 202. The first end 202A of the hub body 202 is configured to be threadedly connected to a device, a housing, or other structure. The hub body 202 also includes a second end 202B having a hole 210 extending perpendicular to the axis C into the internal passage of the hub body 202. The hub body 202 can be made of metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass. The hub body 202 can also include a tool coupling portion 212 (e.g., a hexagonal or other polygonal structure) to help tighten the hub body 202 to the structure.

[0043] The hub body 202 receives the intermediate body 204 in the internal passage of the hub body 202. The intermediate body 204 has a first end 204A and a second end 204B opposite the first end 204A. The first end 204A of the intermediate body 204 is disposed in the internal passage of the hub body 202. The second end 204B of the intermediate body 204 extends axially outward beyond the second end 202B of the hub body 202. The second end 204B of the intermediate body 204 includes an external thread 214 for threadedly connecting to the gland nut 206. The intermediate body 204 also includes an internal passage 216 extending through the first end 204A and the second end 204B of the intermediate body 204. The internal passage 216 is configured such that the internal passage 216 can accommodate a portion of a cable therein.

[0044] The first end 204A of the intermediate body 204 mates with the internal passage of the hub body 202 at a mating point 218. The mating point 218 can be configured such that the mating point 218 includes a spigot fitting in which a portion of the first end 204A of the intermediate body 204 is resistively retained within the internal passage of the hub body 202. The first end 204A of the intermediate body 204 and the internal passage of the hub body 202 can be further configured to threadably engage with each other at the mating point 218. The first end 204A of the intermediate body 204 and the internal passage of the hub body 202 can include corresponding single 1 / 2 (half) or 1 / 4 (quarter) threads at the mating point 218 to threadably engage with each other.

[0045] The first end 204A of the intermediate body 204 also includes a blind hole 220 extending into the intermediate body 204 perpendicular to the axis C. The blind hole 220 is located on the intermediate body 204 so that the blind hole 220 is aligned with the hub body hole 210. The hub body hole 210 and the intermediate body blind hole 220 receive engagement pins 222, 224 that secure the intermediate body to the hub body. The intermediate body can be made of metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass.

[0046] exist Figure 5 In the embodiment of the present invention, the engagement pins 222, 224 are flat head screws. The hub body hole 210 and the intermediate body blind hole 220 can be configured to accommodate the flat head screw 222. The hub body hole 210 and the intermediate body blind hole 220 can threadedly engage the flat head screw 222. The flat head screw 222 can include a plurality of threads that cooperate and tighten with the threads of the hub body hole 210 and the intermediate blind hole 220. The flat head screw 222 is tightened to the hub body hole 210 and the intermediate blind hole 220 to fix the intermediate body 204 to the hub body 202.

[0047] exist Figure 6 In the embodiment of the present invention, the engagement pins 222, 224 are spring-loaded plungers 224. The hub body hole 210 and the intermediate body blind hole 220 can be configured to accommodate the spring-loaded plunger 224. The hub body hole 210 and the intermediate body blind hole 220 can resistively retain the spring-loaded plunger 224. The spring-loaded plunger 224 is inserted into the hub body hole 210 and the intermediate blind hole 220 to secure the intermediate body 204 to the hub body 202.

[0048] The cable gland assembly also includes an elastomeric ring 226 disposed about the hub body 202. The elastomeric ring 226 covers the hub body hole 210 to prevent direct contact with the engagement pins 222, 224. The elastomeric ring 226 further prevents debris or other contaminants from entering the hub body hole 210. The elastomeric ring 226 can be further configured to hold the spring-loaded plunger 224 with resistance.

[0049] The cable gland assembly may further include a curable sealing compound disposed within the interior passage 216 of the intermediate body 204, proximate the first end 204A of the intermediate body 204. When cured, the sealing compound acts as a sealant within the cable gland assembly 200 that restricts the ingress and passage of gases, vapors, or flames into and through the cable gland assembly 200.

[0050] The gland nut 206 includes a first end 206A and a second end 206B opposite the first end 206A. The gland nut 206 also includes an internal passage extending through the first end 206A and the second end 206B of the gland nut 206. The internal passage of the gland nut 206 is configured to receive a portion of the cable passing therethrough. The first end 206A of the gland nut 206 includes an opening sized to receive the second end 204B of the intermediate body 204. The first end 206A of the gland nut 206 includes an internal thread 228 configured to mate and threadably engage with the external thread 214 of the second end 204B of the intermediate body 204. The second end 206B of the gland nut 206 includes a shoulder 230 so that the opening at the first end 206A is wider than the opening at the second end 206B. The gland nut 206 may be made of a metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass. The second end 202B of the hub body 202 is sized such that the first end 206A of the gland nut 206 fits within the internal passage of the hub body 202. The cable gland assembly 200 may further include an O-ring 232 disposed between the first end 206A of the gland nut 206 and the second end 202B of the hub body 202. The O-ring 232 is configured to resistively retain the first end 206A of the gland nut 206 within the internal passage of the hub body 202 at the second end 202B of the hub body 202.

[0051] The cable gland assembly 200 may also include a circlip 234, a sleeve 236, a bushing 238, and a washer 240 disposed within the internal passage of the gland nut 206. The circlip 234 is located between the second end 204A of the intermediate body 204 and the sleeve 236. The sleeve 236 is located between the circlip 234 and the bushing 238. The sleeve 236 is configured to engage the circlip 234 and the bushing 238 so that the sleeve 236 axially compresses the circlip 234 and the bushing 238. The bushing 238 may be made of a metal such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass. The washer 240 is disposed between the bushing 238 and the shoulder 230 of the gland nut 206, near the second end 206B of the gland nut 206. When the cable gland assembly 200 is assembled, the washer 240 distributes the load applied by the shoulder 230 of the gland nut 206. The washer 240 may be composed or formed of, for example, a plastic such as polyamide.

[0052] When the cable gland assembly 200 is assembled, the circlip 234 is compressed between the second end 204A of the intermediate body 204 and the sleeve 236. When compressed, the circlip 234 engages and surrounds the cable to form a ground connection. The circlip 234 may include or be formed of a metal such as stainless steel with a copper flash coating.

[0053] The bushing 238 may include a bushing body 242 having a generally annular shape, the inner surface of which defines a bushing opening 244 extending through a first end 242A and a second end 242B of the bushing body 242. Ribs 246 are disposed on the inner surface of the bushing body 242. The ribs 246 extend around the axis A and extend radially inward from the inner surface toward the axis C. In the illustrated embodiment, the ribs 246 are continuous rings extending along the inner surface. The ribs 246 may be disposed in a midplane that extends through the bushing body 242 transversely to the axis C at a generally midpoint between the first end 242A and the second end 242B of the bushing body 242. The ribs 246 may be disposed at other locations along the axis C of the bushing body 246. The ribs 246 have a suitable cross-sectional shape for engaging and sealing around a cable housed in the cable gland assembly 100.

[0054] The cable is fixed in the cable gland assembly 200 by the retaining spring 234 and the bushing 238. The cable gland assembly 200 is configured so that even when the engagement pins 222, 224 are disengaged from the hub body 202 and the intermediate body 204, the cable remains fixed in the intermediate body 204 and the gland nut 206. As described above, when the gland nut 206 is threadedly connected to the intermediate body 204, the gland nut 206 fixes a portion of the cable in the internal passage of the gland nut 206 and the intermediate body 204 by compressing the cable in the retaining spring 234 and the bushing 238. Therefore, as long as the gland nut 206 is threadedly connected to the intermediate body 204, the retaining spring 234 and the bushing 238 will remain in a compressed state, thereby fixing the cable therein. This allows the engagement pins 222, 224 to be disengaged from the cable gland assembly without affecting the fixing of the cable. After the engagement pins 222, 224 are disengaged from the hub body 202, the intermediate body 204 can be removed from the hub body 202. After the intermediate body 204 is removed from the hub body 202 , an operator may apply a sealant compound in the internal passageway 216 at the first end 204A of the intermediate body 204 or inspect a previously applied sealant compound.

[0055] Figure 7 and Figure 8300 extending along the axis D. The cable gland assembly 300 includes a hub body 302, an intermediate body 304, a union collar 306, and a gland nut 308, wherein the cable gland assembly 300 is configured to secure a portion of a cable 310 therein. The hub body 302 has a first end 302A and a second end 302B opposite the first end 302A. The hub body 302 also includes an internal passage extending through the first end 302A and the second end 302B of the hub body 302. The first end 302A of the hub body 302 includes an external connecting thread 312 for threading the hub body to a device, housing, or other structure. The hub body 302 also includes a second end 302B having a hole 314 for accommodating a ball bearing 316. The hole 314 extends through the hub body 302 so that the hole 314 is in fluid communication with the internal passage of the hub body 302. The hub body 302 can be made of a metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass. The hub body 302 also includes a tool coupling portion 318 (eg, a hexagonal or other polygonal structure) to aid in tightening the hub body 302 to a structure.

[0056] The hub body 302 receives the intermediate body 304 in the internal passage of the hub body 302. The intermediate body 304 has a first end 304A and a second end 304B opposite the first end 304A. The intermediate body 304 also includes an internal passage 320 extending through the first end 304A and the second end 304B of the intermediate body 304. The first end 304A of the intermediate body 304 is disposed within the internal passage of the hub body 302. The second end 304B of the intermediate body 304 extends axially outward beyond the second end 302B of the hub body 302. The second end 304B of the intermediate body 304 includes a passage 322 disposed at a first position 324 on the outer surface of the intermediate body 304. The passage 322 is disposed at the first position 324 on the outer surface of the intermediate body 304 so that when the intermediate body 304 is disposed in the internal passage of the hub body 302, the passage 322 is aligned with the hole 314 in the hub body 302. The passage 322 is configured so that it receives the ball bearing 316 through the hole 314. The second end 304B of the intermediate body 304 further includes an external thread 326 disposed at a second location 328 of the outer surface of the intermediate body 304. The external thread 326 of the second end 304B of the intermediate body 304 is configured to mate with and threadably couple with the gland nut 308. The second location 328 of the outer surface is axially rearward of the first location 324 of the outer surface, such that the passage 322 is located between the tool coupling portion 318 of the hub body 302 and the external thread 326 of the second end 304B of the intermediate body 304. The internal passage 320 of the intermediate body 304 further includes a stepped transition portion 330 proximate the second end 304B of the intermediate body 304.

[0057] The intermediate body 304 may also include a brush dam 332 disposed within the interior passage of the intermediate body 304. The brush dam 332 includes an annular filament retainer 334 and a plurality of individual filaments 336 extending radially inwardly from the annular filament retainer 334 to define an average inner radial extent that is less than the radius defined by the annular filament retainer 334. The free ends of the filaments 334 define a longitudinal opening 338 extending through the brush dam 336. The filaments 334 may be constructed or formed of any suitable material, such as, but not limited to, plastic, nylon, polypropylene, polystyrene, tampico, horsehair, wire, etc. The filaments 334 are generally flexible or resiliently deflectable along the length of the filaments 334.

[0058] The brush dam 332 is configured to allow the cable 310 to pass through the opening 338 while still forming a barrier between the first end 304A and the second end 304B of the intermediate body 304 to inhibit the flow of a curable sealing compound disposed within the intermediate body 304. The sealing compound applied in the internal passage 320 of the intermediate body 304 is axially forward of the brush dam 332. When cured, the sealing compound acts as a sealant within the cable gland assembly 300 that restricts the ingress and passage of gases, vapors, or flames into and through the cable gland assembly 300.

[0059] The coupling collar 306 includes a first end 306A and a second end 306B opposite the first end 306A. The coupling collar 306 is substantially annular such that the coupling collar 306 includes an axial outer surface 340 and an axial inner surface 342. The coupling collar 306 may include a gripping feature 344 disposed along the axial outer surface 340. The axial inner surface 342 of the coupling collar 306 defines an internal passage 346 extending through the first and second ends of the coupling collars 306A, 306B. The internal passage 346 of the coupling collar 306 is sized such that the internal passage 346 receives the second end 302A of the hub body 302. The axial inner surface 342 of the coupling collar 306 also includes a protrusion 348 extending from the axial inner surface perpendicular to the axis D.

[0060] The union collar 306 is axially slidable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the protrusion 348 is aligned with the hub body bore 314 and the intermediate body passage 322 so that the protrusion 348 engages the ball bearing 316. In the first position, the ball bearing 316 is retained in the bore 314 and the passage 322 to resistively retain the intermediate body 304 in the hub body 302. The ball bearing 316 and the protrusion 348 act in concert as a retaining pin to resist axial movement of the intermediate body 304, thereby retaining the intermediate body 304 in the internal passage of the hub body 302. In the second position, the union collar 306 is axially pulled toward the tool coupling portion 318 of the hub body 302 to disengage the protrusion 348 from the ball bearing 316. Disengaging the protrusion 348 from the ball bearing 316 allows the ball bearing 316 to be released from the hub body bore 314 and the intermediate body passage 322. When the ball bearing 316 is released, it allows the intermediate body 304 to be removed from the internal passageway of the hub body 302 .

[0061] The coupling collar 306 may further include a retaining spring 350 disposed between the tool coupling portion 318 of the hub body 302 and a protrusion 348 of the axial inner surface 342 of the coupling collar 306. The retaining spring 350 is configured to resistively retain the coupling collar 306 in the first position such that the retaining spring 350 resists axial movement of the coupling collar 306 toward the first end 302A of the hub body 302. The retaining spring 350 is compressed in the second position by the axial movement of the protrusion 348. The coupling collar 306 may further include a retaining ring 352 disposed at the second end of the coupling collar 306. The retaining ring 352 is configured to prevent the ball bearing 316 from falling out of the coupling collar 306 when in the second position. The coupling collar 306 may be made of a metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass.

[0062] The gland nut 308 includes a first end 308A and a second end 308B opposite the first end 308A. The gland nut 308 also includes an internal passage extending through the first end 308A and the second end 308B of the gland nut 308. The internal passage of the gland nut 308 is configured to receive a portion of the cable 310 therethrough. The first end 308A of the gland nut 308 includes an opening sized to receive the second end 304B of the intermediate body 304. The first end 308A of the gland nut 308 includes an internal thread 354 configured to mate and threadably engage with the external thread 326 of the second end 304B of the intermediate body 304. The second end 308B of the union nut 308 includes a shoulder 356 so that the opening at the first end 308A is wider than the opening at the second end 308B. The hub body 308 may be made of a metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass.

[0063] The cable gland assembly 300 also includes a circlip 358, a sleeve 360, a bushing 362, and a washer 364 disposed within the internal passage of the gland nut 308. The circlip 358 is located between the step transition portion 330 of the internal passage 320 of the intermediate body 304 and the sleeve 360. The sleeve 360 ​​is located between the circlip 358 and the bushing 362. The sleeve 360 ​​is configured to engage the circlip 358 and the bushing 362 so that the sleeve 360 ​​axially compresses the circlip 358 and the bushing 362. The sleeve 360 ​​can be constructed or formed of, for example, plastic or metal (such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass). The washer 364 is disposed between the bushing 362 and the shoulder 356 of the gland nut 308, near the second end 308B of the gland nut 308. When the cable gland assembly 300 is assembled, the washer 364 distributes the load applied by the shoulder 356 of the gland nut 308. The gasket 364 may be constructed or formed from, for example, a plastic such as polyamide.

[0064] When the cable gland assembly 300 is assembled, the circlip 358 is compressed between the step transition 330 of the intermediate body 304 and the sleeve 360. When compressed, the circlip 358 engages and surrounds the cable 310 to form a ground connection. The circlip 358 can be made of metal, such as stainless steel with a copper flash coating.

[0065] The bushing 362 may include a bushing body 368 having a generally annular shape, the inner surface of which defines a bushing opening 370 extending through a first end 368A and a second end 368B of the bushing body. Ribs 372 are disposed on the inner surface of the bushing body 368. The ribs 372 extend around the axis D and extend radially inward from the inner surface toward the axis D. In the illustrated embodiment, the ribs 372 are continuous rings extending along the inner surface. The ribs 372 may be disposed in a midplane that extends through the bushing body 368 transversely to the axis D at a generally midpoint between the first and second ends of the bushing body 368. The ribs 372 may be disposed at other locations along the axis D of the bushing body 368. The ribs 372 have a suitable cross-sectional shape for engaging and sealing around the cable 310 housed in the cable gland assembly 300.

[0066] The cable 310 is secured in the cable gland assembly 300 by the circlip 358 and the bushing 366. The cable gland assembly 300 is configured such that the cable 310 remains secured in the intermediate body 304 and the gland nut 308 even when the union collar 306 releases the ball bearing 316 in the second position. As described above, when the union collar 306 is in the first position, the intermediate body 304 is retained in the internal passage of the hub body 302 by the ball bearing 316. However, by compressing the cable 310 in the circlip 358 and the bushing 366, the cable 310 is retained in the internal passage of the gland nut 308 independently of the union collar 306. Therefore, as long as the gland nut 308 is threadedly coupled to the intermediate body 304, the circlip 358 and the bushing 366 remain in a compressed state, thereby securing the cable 310 therein. This allows the union collar 306 to move to the second position to release the ball bearing 316 from the hub body bore 314 and the intermediate body passage 322 without affecting the fixation of the cable 310. After the ball bearing 316 is released, the intermediate body 304 can be removed from the hub body 302. After the intermediate body 304 is removed from the hub body 302, an operator can apply a compound sealant in the internal passage 320 at the first end 304A of the intermediate body 304 or inspect a previously applied compound sealant.

[0067] Reference now Figure 9 , which depicts a fourth exemplary embodiment of a cable gland assembly 400. The cable gland assembly 400 includes a hub body 402, an intermediate body 404, an elbow body 405, a union nut 406, and a gland nut 408, wherein the cable gland assembly 400 is configured to secure a portion of a cable therein. The hub body 402 has a first end 402A having an external connection thread 418 for screwing into a device, housing, or other structure. The hub body 402 also includes a second end 402B having a multi-segment threaded portion 420 that threadably mates with the union nut 406. The hub body 402 also includes an internal passage extending through the first end 402A and the second end 402B of the hub body 402. The hub body 402 can be made of metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass. The hub body 402 also includes a tool coupling portion 422 (e.g., a hexagonal or other polygonal structure) to help tighten the hub body 402 to the structure.

[0068] The hub body 402 receives the intermediate body 404 in the internal passage of the hub body 402. The intermediate body 404 has a first end 404A and a second end 404B opposite to the first end 404A. The first end 404A of the intermediate body 404 is disposed in the internal passage of the hub body 404. The second end 404B of the intermediate body 404 extends axially outward beyond the second end 402B of the hub body 402. The intermediate body 404 also includes an internal passage 432 extending through the first end 404A and the second end 404B of the intermediate body 404. The internal passage 432 also includes an internal threaded portion 433. The internal passage 432 is configured to receive a portion of a cable therein. The intermediate body 404 can be made of metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass.

[0069] The internal passage 432 of the intermediate body 404 receives the first end 405A of the elbow body 405 through the second end 404B of the intermediate body 404. The first end 405A of the elbow body 405 includes external threads 435, which engage with the internal threaded portion 433 of the intermediate body 404. The elbow body 405 includes a second end 405B and an internal passage 437 extending therethrough. The elbow body includes an angular bend 447 disposed between the first end 405A and the second end 405B, so that the elbow body 405 is bent. The second end 405B of the elbow body 405 also includes external threads 438. Figure 9 As shown, the angular bend 447 is a right angle, i.e., a ninety degree (90°) bend, so that the first end 405A and the second end 405B extend on an orthogonal axis. In a further embodiment, the angular bend 447 is an acute angle bend having an angle between zero degrees (0°) and ninety degrees (90°). In a further embodiment, the angular bend 447 is an obtuse angle bend having an angle between ninety degrees (90°) and one hundred and eighty degrees (180°). The elbow body 405 can be made of a metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass. The elbow body 405 is particularly advantageous in situations where there is limited space around or along the structure receiving the exemplary cable gland assembly. In addition, the elbow body 405 helps to relieve stress on the cable, which would otherwise extend at an angle from the linear cable gland assembly.

[0070] The cable gland assembly 400 also includes a fire channel 434. The fire channel 434 is a small passageway disposed between the inner surface of the hub body 402 and the outer surface of the intermediate body 404. In addition, the cable gland assembly 400 includes a compound chamber 436 disposed within the intermediate body 404 near the first end 404A of the intermediate body 404. The compound chamber 436 is configured to receive a curable sealing compound (also referred to herein as a compound sealant). When cured, the sealing compound acts as a sealant within the cable gland assembly 400 that restricts gas, vapor, or flame from entering and passing through the cable gland assembly 400. Suitable examples of sealing compounds include, but are not limited to, epoxy fillers and Chico® sealing compounds commercially available from Eaton Corporation PLC.

[0071] The intermediate body 404 may also include a brush dam 439 disposed within the internal passage 432 of the intermediate body 404. The brush dam 439 includes an annular filament retainer 441 and a plurality of individual filaments 443 extending radially inwardly from the annular filament retainer 441 to define an average inner radial extent that is less than the radius defined by the annular filament retainer 441. The free ends of the filaments 443 define an opening 445 extending through the brush dam 439. The filaments 443 may be constructed or formed of any suitable material, such as but not limited to plastic, nylon, polypropylene, polystyrene, tampico, horsehair, wire, etc. The filaments 443 are generally flexible or resiliently deflectable along the length of the filaments 443. The brush dam 439 allows a portion of the cable to pass through the opening 445 while still forming a barrier between the first end 404A of the intermediate body 404 and the first end 405A of the elbow body 405 to inhibit the flow of the curable sealing compound disposed within the compound chamber 436.

[0072] The union nut 406 includes a first end 406A and a second end 406B opposite the first end 406A. The union nut 406 also includes an internal passage 440 extending through the first end 406A and the second end 406B. The first end of the union nut 406A includes a multi-segment threaded portion 442. The multi-segment threaded portion 442 includes a multi-segment thread that is configured to mate and couple with the multi-segment threaded portion 420 of the hub body 402. The multi-segment threaded portion 442 of the union nut 406 is disposed along an axial inner surface 444 of the union nut 406. The multi-segment threaded portion 442 of the union nut 406 and the multi-segment threaded portion 420 of the hub body 402 are configured as a quick connector so that the union nut 406 can be screwed in one turn or less to threadably engage the hub body 402 and loosened to threadably disengage the hub body 402. In an alternative embodiment, the union nut 406 can be turned in two turns or less to threadably engage the hub body 402 and loosened to threadably disengage the hub body 402. In an alternative embodiment, the multi-threaded portions 420, 442 of the hub body 402 and the union nut 406 can be composed of standard threaded portions.

[0073] The second end 406B of the union nut 406 includes a shoulder 446 such that the opening at the first end 406B of the union nut 406 is wider than the opening at the second end 406B of the union nut 406. The internal passage 440 of the union nut 406 receives the intermediate body 404 and the elbow body 405 such that the collar 424 of the intermediate body 404 abuts the union nut shoulder 446. The union nut shoulder 446 limits axial movement of the intermediate body 404. The shoulder 446 further limits axial movement of the intermediate body 404 such that threading the multi-segment threaded portion 442 of the union nut 406 onto the multi-segment threaded portion 420 of the hub body 402 secures the intermediate body 404 in the internal passage of the hub body 402. The intermediate body 404 cannot be removed from the internal passage of the hub body 402 unless and until the union nut 406 is disengaged from the hub body 402 such that the union nut shoulder 446 does not abut the intermediate body collar 424.

[0074] Still refer to Figure 9 , the gland nut 408 includes a first end 408A and a second end 408B opposite the first end 408A. The gland nut 408 also includes an internal passage extending through the first end 408A and the second end 408B of the gland nut 408. The gland nut internal passage is configured to receive a portion of the cable passing therethrough. The first end 408A of the gland nut 408 includes an opening sized to receive the second end 405B of the elbow body 405. The first end 408A of the gland nut 408 includes an internal thread 448 configured to cooperate and threadably engage with the external thread 438 of the second end 405B of the elbow body 405. The second end 408B of the gland nut 408 includes a shoulder 450 so that the opening at the first end 408A is wider than the opening at the second end 408B. The gland nut can be made of a metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass.

[0075] The cable gland assembly 400 also includes a circlip 452, a sleeve 454, a bushing 456, and a washer 458 disposed within the internal passage of the gland nut 408. The circlip 452 is located between the second end 404B of the intermediate body 404 and the sleeve 454. The sleeve 454 is located between the circlip 452 and the bushing 456. The sleeve 454 is configured to engage the circlip 452 and the bushing 456 so that the sleeve 454 axially compresses the circlip 452 and the bushing 456. The sleeve 454 can be constructed or formed of, for example, plastic or metal such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass. The washer 458 is disposed between the bushing 456 and the shoulder 450 of the gland nut 408, proximate the second end 408B of the gland nut 408. When the cable gland assembly 400 is assembled, the washer 458 distributes the load applied by the shoulder 450 of the gland nut 408. The gasket 458 may be constructed of, for example, a plastic such as polyamide.

[0076] When the cable gland assembly is assembled with the cable disposed therein, the circlip 452 is compressed between the second end 405B of the elbow body 405 and the sleeve 454. When compressed, the circlip 452 engages and surrounds a portion of the cable to form a ground connection. In addition, the circlip 452 can be configured to act as an armor stopper that limits the insertion of the cable jacket or cable armor structure surrounding the cable by stripping the cable jacket and the cable armor structure to expose the internal wires or cables. The circlip 452 can be made of metal, such as stainless steel with a copper flash coating.

[0077] The cable gland assembly 400 is configured so that a portion of the cable remains fixed in the intermediate body 404, the elbow body 405 and the gland nut 408 even when the union nut 406 is disengaged from the hub body 402. This allows the union nut 406 to be disengaged from the cable gland assembly 400 without affecting the fixation of the cable.

[0078] After the union nut 406 is disengaged from the hub body 402, the intermediate body 404 and the elbow body 405 threadedly engaged therein can be removed from the internal passage of the hub body 402. After the intermediate body 404 is removed from the internal passage of the hub body 402, the operator can apply the compound sealant or check the previously applied compound sealant in the compound chamber 436. Therefore, the operator only needs to loosen the union nut 406 to remove the intermediate body 404 and the elbow body threadedly engaged therein from the hub body 402, because the intermediate body 404 is retained in the hub body 402 without fasteners or threads.

[0079] Reference now Figures 10 to 15 , which depicts a fifth exemplary embodiment of a cable gland assembly 500 extending along an axis E. Similar to the previously disclosed embodiments, the cable gland assembly 500 is a flame retardant cable gland assembly configured to seal a joint between a cable and a device or structure into which the cable extends. As explained in more detail below, the cable gland assembly 500 includes a union nut 506 that is threadably coupled to a hub body 502 using a quick connector such that the union nut 506 can be disengaged from the hub body 502 within one turn of the union nut 506. The other components of the cable gland assembly 500 described below are illustrative, and other designs or configurations are possible.

[0080] The cable gland assembly 500 includes a hub body 502, an intermediate body 504, a union nut 506, and a gland nut 508, wherein the cable gland assembly 500 is configured to secure a portion of a cable (not shown) therein. The hub body 502 has a first end 502A having an external connection thread 518 for screwing into and connecting to a device, housing, or other structure. The hub body 502 also includes a second end 502B having a multi-segment threaded portion 520 including a multi-segment thread for threading with the union nut 506. The hub body 502 also includes an internal passage extending through the first end 502A and the second end 502B of the hub body 502. The hub body 502 can be made of metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass. The hub body 502 also includes a tool coupling portion 522 (e.g., a hexagonal or other polygonal structure) to help tighten the hub body 502 to the structure. The hub body 502 also includes at least one axial protrusion 503 extending axially outward from the second end 502B of the hub body 502 . Figures 10 to 15 The exemplary hub body 502 shown in the figure includes four axial protrusions 503 evenly spaced around the circumference of the second end 502B of the hub body 502. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the hub body can have one, two or three axial protrusions. In another alternative embodiment (not shown), the hub body can have five or more axial protrusions.

[0081] The hub body 502 receives the intermediate body 504 in the internal passage of the hub body 502. The intermediate body 504 has a first end 504A and a second end 504B opposite the first end 504A. The first end 504A of the intermediate body 504 is disposed within the internal passage of the hub body 504. In the illustrated embodiment, when the cable gland assembly 500 is assembled, the first end 504A of the intermediate body 504 is flush with the first end 502A of the hub body 502. In an alternative embodiment, the first end of the intermediate body is recessed from the end of the hub body.

[0082] The second end 504B of the intermediate body 504 extends axially outward from the interior passage of the hub body 504 beyond the second end 502B of the hub body 502. The intermediate body 504 includes at least one radial protrusion 524 extending from and disposed around a first portion 526 of the outer surface of the intermediate body 504. The first portion 526 of the outer surface of the intermediate body 504 is positioned toward the center of the intermediate body 504 such that the radial protrusion 524 is located between the first end 504A and the second end 504B of the intermediate body 504.

[0083] Figures 10 to 15The exemplary intermediate body 504 shown in the Figure includes four radial protrusions 524 extending radially from the periphery of the intermediate body. These radial protrusions 524 are positioned so that the radial protrusions 524 are equally spaced and distributed along the periphery of the intermediate body 504. The intermediate body 504 also includes protrusion gaps 525 disposed between the radial protrusions 524 along the periphery of the intermediate body 504. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the intermediate body includes two or three radial protrusions. In another alternative embodiment (not shown), the intermediate body includes five or more radial protrusions. In all embodiments, the number of radial protrusions on the intermediate body corresponds to the number of axial protrusions on the hub body.

[0084] Reference now Figure 13 , the radial protrusions 524 of the intermediate body 504 are spaced apart so that when the intermediate body 504 is disposed within the hub body 502, the protrusion gaps 525 of the intermediate body 504 are aligned with and receive the axial protrusions 503 of the hub body 502. The radial protrusions 524 and the axial protrusions 503 abut against each other so that the abutment limits the rotational movement of the intermediate body 504 within the hub body 502. When the gland nut 508 is secured to the intermediate body 504, the limited rotational movement prevents the intermediate body 504 from rotating, which could potentially loosen the engagement between the hub body 502 and the union nut 506. A loose engagement between the hub body 502 and the union nut 506 would compromise the functionality and safety of the cable gland system 500.

[0085] Reference again Figures 10 to 15 , the second end 504B of the intermediate body 504 further includes an external thread 528 disposed around a second portion 530 of the outer surface of the intermediate body 504. The external thread 528 of the second end 504B of the intermediate body 504 is configured to mate with and be coupled to the gland nut 502. The second portion 530 of the outer surface of the intermediate body 504 is axially located behind the first portion 526 of the outer surface of the intermediate body 504, so that the radial protrusion 524 is located between the second end 502B of the hub body 502 and the external thread 528 of the intermediate body 504.

[0086] The intermediate body 504 also includes an internal passage 532 extending through the first end 504A and the second end 504B of the intermediate body 504. The internal passage 532 is configured to receive a portion of the cable therein. A brush dam 539 is disposed within the internal passage 532 of the intermediate body 504. The brush dam 539 is consistent with the brush dam 439 described above and is similar to the brush dam 439 described above. Figure 9 The intermediate body 504 may be made of metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass.

[0087] The cable gland assembly 500 may also include a fire channel 534. The fire channel 534 is a small passageway disposed between the inner surface of the hub body 502 and the outer surface of the intermediate body 504. The fire channel 534 is configured to allow hot or volatile gases contained within the structure to slowly dissipate from the structure. The fire channel 534 mitigates the accumulation of gases within the structure, which, if not mitigated, may result in catastrophic failure of the system. In addition, the fire channel 534 may be configured such that it allows hot gases dissipated through the fire channel 534 to cool as the gases pass through the fire channel 534 and exit the cable gland assembly 500.

[0088] The union nut 506 includes a first end 506A and a second end 506B opposite the first end 506A. The union nut 506 also includes an internal passage 540 extending through the first end 506A and the second end 506B. The first end of the union nut 506A includes a multi-segment threaded portion 542. The multi-segment threaded portion 542 includes a multi-segment thread that is configured to cooperate and couple with the multi-segment thread 520 of the hub body 502. The multi-segment thread 542 of the union nut 506 is arranged along the axial inner surface of the union nut 506. The multi-segment threaded portion 542 of the union nut 506 and the multi-segment threaded portion 520 of the hub body 502 are configured as a quick connector so that the union nut 506 can be screwed in one turn or less to threadably engage the hub body 502 and loosened to threadably disengage the hub body 502. In an alternative embodiment, the union nut 506 can be screwed in two turns or less to threadably engage the hub body 502 and loosened to threadably disengage the hub body 502. In an alternative embodiment, the multi-threaded portions 520, 542 of the hub body 502 and the union nut 506 may be comprised of standard threaded portions.

[0089] The second end 506B of the union nut 506 includes a shoulder 546 such that the opening at the first end 506B of the union nut 506 is wider than the opening at the second end 506B of the union nut 506. The internal passage 540 of the union nut 506 receives the intermediate body 504 such that the radial protrusion 524 of the intermediate body 504 abuts the union nut shoulder 546. The shoulder 546 limits the axial movement of the intermediate body 504 along the axis E such that the intermediate body 504 can only be inserted into the internal passage 540 of the union nut 506 until the radial protrusion 524 contacts the shoulder 546. The shoulder 546 further limits the axial movement of the intermediate body 504 such that screwing the multi-segment threaded portion 542 of the union nut 506 into the multi-segment threaded portion 520 of the hub body 502 secures the intermediate body 504 in the internal passage of the hub body 502. The intermediate body 504 cannot be removed from the internal passageway of the hub body 502 unless and until the union nut 506 is disengaged from the hub body 502 such that the shoulder 546 of the union nut 506 does not abut the radial protrusion 524 of the intermediate body 504 .

[0090] Reference againFigures 10 to 15 , the gland nut 508 includes a first end 508A and a second end 508B opposite the first end 508A. The gland nut 508 also includes an internal passage extending through the first end 508A and the second end 508B of the gland nut 508. The gland nut internal passage is configured to receive a portion of the cable passing therethrough. The first end 508A of the gland nut 508 includes an opening sized to receive the second end 504B of the intermediate body 504. The first end 508A of the gland nut 508 includes an internal thread 548 configured to cooperate and threadably engage with the external thread 528 of the second end 504B of the intermediate body 504. The second end 508B of the gland nut 508 includes a shoulder 550 so that the opening at the first end 508A is wider than the opening at the second end 508B. The gland nut can be made of a metal such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass.

[0091] The cable gland assembly 500 also includes a circlip 552, a sleeve 554, a bushing 556, and a washer 558 disposed within the internal passage of the gland nut 508. The circlip 552 is located between the second end 504B of the intermediate body 504 and the sleeve 554. The sleeve 554 is located between the circlip 552 and the bushing 556. The sleeve 554 is configured to engage the circlip 552 and the bushing 556 so that the sleeve 554 axially compresses the circlip 552 and the bushing 556. The sleeve 554 can be constructed or formed of, for example, plastic or metal (such as aluminum, stainless steel, or brass). The washer 558 is disposed between the bushing 556 and the shoulder 550 of the gland nut 508, near the second end 508B of the gland nut 508. When the cable gland assembly 500 is assembled, the washer 558 distributes the load applied by the shoulder 550 of the gland nut 508. The gasket 558 may be constructed or formed from, for example, a plastic such as polyamide.

[0092] When the cable gland assembly is assembled, the circlip 552 is compressed between the second end 504B of the intermediate body 504 and the sleeve 554. When compressed, the circlip 552 engages and surrounds the cable armor structure of the cable to form a ground connection. In addition, the circlip 552 can be configured to act as an armor stop. The circlip 552 can be made of metal, such as stainless steel with a copper flash coating.

[0093] The cable is fixed in the cable gland assembly 500 by the circlip 552 and the bushing 556. The cable gland assembly 500 is configured so that the cable remains fixed in the intermediate body 504 and the gland nut 508 even when the union nut 506 is disengaged from the hub body 502. As described above, when the gland nut 508 is threadedly coupled to the intermediate body 504, the gland nut 508 fixes a portion of the cable in the intermediate body 504 and the gland nut 508 by compressing the cable in the circlip 552 and the bushing 556. Therefore, as long as the gland nut 508 is threadedly coupled to the intermediate body 504, the circlip 552 and the bushing 556 remain compressed, thereby fixing the cable therein. This allows the union nut 506 to be disengaged from the cable gland assembly 500 without affecting the fixation of the cable.

[0094] After the union nut 506 is disengaged from the hub body 502, the intermediate body 504 can be removed from the internal passage of the hub body 502. After the intermediate body 504 is removed from the internal passage of the hub body 502, an operator can apply a compound sealant or inspect a previously applied compound sealant in the compound chamber 536 of the internal passage 532 of the intermediate body 504. Since the intermediate body 504 is received in the hub body 502 without fasteners or threads, the operator can remove the intermediate body 504 by simply loosening the union nut 506 to apply a compound sealant or inspect a previously applied sealant.

[0095] In one embodiment, the cable gland assembly 500 has a 1 / 2 gauge model fitting for 0.50 inch cable. The cable gland assembly 500 has a diagonal width BB less than or equal to 1.24 inches, and has a sealing range of 0.50-0.78 inches. The cable gland assembly 500 is an improvement over conventional cable glands because conventional cable glands have a diagonal width greater than 1.24 inches (inches) to achieve a similar sealing range.

[0096] To the extent the term "comprising" is used in the specification or claims, it is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "includes" in that the term is interpreted as "including" when used as a transitional word in a claim. In addition, to the extent the term "or" is used (e.g., A or B), it is intended to mean "A or B or both." When the applicant intends to indicate "only A or B, but not both," the expression "only A or only B, but not both" will be used. Therefore, the term "or" as used herein is inclusive, not exclusive. See Bryan A. Garner, Dictionary of Contemporary Legal Usage 624 (2d, 1995). In addition, to the extent the term "in" or "into" is used in the specification or claims, it also means "on" or "onto." In addition, the term "connected" as used in the specification or claims means not only "directly connected to," but also "indirectly connected to," such as connected through another component or components.

[0097] Although the present application has been illustrated by the description of its embodiments, and the embodiments have been described in considerable detail, the applicant does not intend to limit or in any way restrict the scope of the appended claims to these details. Other advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the present application in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details, representative devices and methods, and illustrative examples shown and described. Therefore, departures from these details may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the applicant's overall inventive concept.

Claims

1. A cable gland assembly, comprising: a hub body having a first end configured to be threadedly coupled to a structure and a second end opposite the first end of the hub body, wherein an outer portion of the second end of the hub body includes a plurality of threaded portions, the hub body defining an internal passageway; an intermediate body extending along an axis, the intermediate body having a first end and a second end, the intermediate body defining an internal passage configured to receive a cable, the first end of the intermediate body being disposed within the internal passage of the hub body, the second end of the intermediate body extending axially beyond the second end of the hub body, the second end of the intermediate body having an annular protrusion disposed around a first outer portion of the second end of the intermediate body and proximate to the second end of the hub body, the second end of the intermediate body also having an external thread extending axially along the second outer portion of the intermediate body behind the annular protrusion; a union nut having a first end and a second end opposite the first end of the union nut, the union nut defining an internal passageway that receives the intermediate body and the second end of the hub body, the first end of the union nut threadedly engaging the multi-segment threaded portion of the hub body, the second end of the union nut having a shoulder that abuts against the annular protrusion of the intermediate body, wherein threading the union nut along the multi-segment threaded portion of the hub body secures the intermediate body in the internal passageway of the hub body; and A gland nut having a first end and a second end opposite the first end of the gland nut, the gland nut defining an internal passage configured to receive a cable, the first end of the gland nut being threadedly engaged to the external thread of the second end of the intermediate body, the second end of the gland nut having a shoulder.

2. The cable gland assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The multi-stage threaded portion of the hub body and the union nut are tightened or loosened in one turn or less.

3. The cable gland assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a bushing disposed in the gland nut, the bushing having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end of the bushing, wherein The second end of the bushing abuts a shoulder of the gland nut.

4. The cable gland assembly according to claim 3, further comprising a washer disposed within the gland nut, the washer having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, wherein The second side of the washer abuts the second end of the bushing.

5. The cable gland assembly according to claim 4, further comprising a snap spring disposed between the second end of the intermediate body and the first side of the gasket, wherein When the gland nut is threaded onto the intermediate body, the retaining spring engages a portion of the cable to secure the cable within the cable gland assembly.

6. The cable gland assembly according to claim 5, wherein: The portion of the cable is secured in the cable gland assembly independently of the union nut.

7. The cable gland assembly according to claim 1 further comprises a 1 / 2 specification model accessory, wherein the sealing range of the accessory is 0.50-0.78 inches and the diagonal width is 1.24 inches.

8. The cable gland assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The intermediate body includes a compound chamber in a first end of the intermediate body for receiving a sealing compound.

9. A cable gland assembly, comprising: a hub body extending along an axis, the hub body having a first end configured to be threadedly coupled to a structure and a second end opposite the first end of the hub body, the hub body defining an internal passage along the axis configured to receive a portion of a cable, the second end of the hub body including a bore extending perpendicular to the axis into the internal passage of the hub body; an intermediate body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end of the intermediate body, the intermediate body defining an internal passage configured to receive a portion of the cable, wherein the first end of the intermediate body is received in the hub body, the first end of the intermediate body having a blind bore, wherein the blind bore is aligned with the bore of the hub body and extends into the intermediate body perpendicular to the axis; a dowel pin configured to be inserted into the hole of the hub body and the blind hole of the intermediate body to fix the intermediate body in the hub body; and A gland nut having a first end and an opposite second end, the gland nut defining an internal passage configured to receive a portion of the cable, the first end of the gland nut receiving the second end of the intermediate body so that the first end of the gland nut threadably engages the threads of the second end of the intermediate body, the first end of the gland nut being assembled within the internal passage of the hub body.

10. The cable gland assembly according to claim 9, wherein: The engaging pin is a grub screw which threadably engages a threaded portion of the hole of the hub body and a threaded portion of the blind hole of the intermediate body.

11. The cable gland assembly according to claim 9, wherein: The engagement pin is a spring loaded plunger.

12. The cable gland assembly of claim 9, further comprising an elastomeric ring disposed about the hub body, the elastomeric ring covering the hub body aperture to prevent direct contact with the engagement pin.

13. The cable gland assembly according to claim 9, wherein: The first end of the gland nut is resistively retained within the second end of the hub body.

14. The cable gland assembly of claim 13, further comprising an O-ring disposed between the first end of the gland nut and the second end of the hub body, wherein: The O-ring resistively retains the first end of the gland nut within the interior passageway of the hub body.

15. A cable gland assembly, comprising: a hub body having a first end configured to be threadedly coupled to a structure and a second end opposite the first end of the hub body, wherein the second end of the hub body includes a bore to retain a ball bearing, the hub body defining an internal passageway; an intermediate body extending along an axis, the intermediate body having a first end and a second end, the intermediate body defining an internal passage configured to receive a cable, the first end of the intermediate body being disposed within the internal passage of the hub body, the first end of the intermediate body also having a passage aligned with the hole in the hub body, and the passage receiving the ball bearing through the hole in the hub body, the second end of the intermediate body extending axially beyond the second end of the hub body, the second end of the intermediate body having external threads; a coupling collar having a first end and a second end opposite the first end of the coupling collar, wherein the coupling collar is substantially annular such that the coupling collar includes an axially outer surface and an axially inner surface, the axially inner surface of the coupling collar defining an internal passageway for receiving the second end of the hub body, the axially inner surface including a protrusion that engages the ball bearing when the coupling collar is in a first position and that disengages the ball bearing when the coupling collar is in a second position; and A gland nut having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end of the gland nut, the gland nut defining an internal passage configured to receive the cable, the first end of the gland nut being configured to threadably engage the external threads of the second end of the intermediate body, and the second end of the gland nut having a shoulder.

16. The cable gland assembly of claim 15, further comprising a spring disposed between the tool coupling portion of the hub body and the axial inner surface of the union collar, wherein: The spring opposes axial movement of the coupling collar toward the first end of the hub body.

17. The cable gland assembly according to claim 16, wherein: The spring resistively holds the protrusion in the first position.

18. The cable gland assembly according to claim 17, wherein: In the second position, the spring is compressed by axial movement of the coupling collar toward the first end of the hub body.

19. The cable gland assembly of claim 15, further comprising a compound chamber for receiving a sealing compound, the compound chamber being disposed proximate to the first end of the intermediate body.

20. The cable gland assembly according to claim 19, wherein: The interior passage of the intermediate body further includes a brush dam configured to retain sealing compound within the compound chamber while allowing a cable to pass through the interior passage of the intermediate body.

21. A cable gland assembly, comprising: a hub body having a first end configured to be threadedly coupled to a structure and a second end opposite the first end of the hub body, wherein an outer portion of the second end of the hub body includes a plurality of threaded portions, the hub body defining an internal passageway; an intermediate body extending along an axis, the intermediate body having a first end and a second end, the intermediate body defining an internal passage, the first end of the intermediate body being disposed within the internal passage of the hub body, the second end of the intermediate body extending axially beyond the second end of the hub body, the second end of the intermediate body having a collar, the intermediate body also having internal threads along a portion of the internal passage of the intermediate body and proximate the second end of the intermediate body; an elbow body having a first end and a second end, the elbow body further having an angular bend disposed between the first end and the second end of the elbow body, the elbow body defining an internal passageway, the first end of the elbow body threadingly engaging the internal threads of the intermediate body, the second end of the elbow body including external threads; a union nut having a first end and a second end opposite the first end of the union nut, the union nut defining an internal passageway receiving the first end of the intermediate body and the second end of the hub body, the first end of the union nut threadedly engaging the multi-segment threaded portion of the hub body, the second end of the union nut having a shoulder abutting against a collar of the intermediate body, wherein threading the union nut along the multi-segment threaded portion of the hub body secures the intermediate body in the internal passageway of the hub body; and A gland nut having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end of the gland nut, the gland nut defining an internal passage, the first end of the gland nut threadedly engaging the external thread of the second end of the elbow body, and the second end of the gland nut having a shoulder.

22. The cable gland assembly according to claim 21, wherein: The angular bend of the elbow body is an acute-angle bend.

23. The cable gland assembly according to claim 21, wherein: The angular bend of the elbow body is a right-angle bend.

24. The cable gland assembly according to claim 21, wherein: The angular bend of the elbow body is an obtuse bend.

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