To suit 3 Core SWA Armoured XLPE Cables, 3.6kV (3.3kV) to 36kV (33kV)
Reference Numbers: SPS 180(CS) and SPS 193(CS)
In this Post, we present a step-by-step installation guide for the SPS 180(CS) and SPS 193(CS) Cold Shrink ‘Bolt-On’ Type Cable Glands. These “top-hat” glands are designed to connect and gland 3-core armoured XLPE cables from 3.6kV to 36kV, providing a reliable and easy-to-install solution for Cold Shrink termination and are distributed by Thorne & Derrick.
Note:- Fig 1 shows one possible cable gland configuration, in some situations it may be necessary to position the 3 leg heat shrink boot body below the gland plate to gain space within the cable box. If cable is non armoured, additional strain may be put on the heat shrink tube to ensure cable is supported by cable cleats to provide additional strain relief.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Before opening up the armour wires, ensure the cold shrink tubes and the two worm drive clamps are in position.
Open up the wire armours as shown in Fig 2.
Slide the metal cable gland body over the cable.
Note: The cable gland body itself can, in most cases, be positioned after completing the cable termination.
For Steel Tape Armoured Cable:
Prepare to the same dimensions shown in Fig 1 and follow section 7 (see below).
Configuration Tip:
Fig 1 shows one possible configuration. In some cases, you may need to position the 3-leg boot body below the gland plate to gain space within the cable box.
Non-Armoured Cable Warning:
Additional strain may be placed on the shrink tube. Ensure the cable is supported by cable cleats to provide strain relief.
Complete the final connections of the cable termination before bolting the cable gland body in place.
Bend the armours back over the cable gland body.
Using the worm drive clamps, connect the cable armours and screen earth braids to the cable gland body as shown in Fig 3. Ensure the cable clamps are tight.
Cover any sharp edges and the clamp buckles with PVC tape.
If Steel Tape Armoured:
Unwind the electrical tape below the bottom of the cable gland, re-wrap around the cable gland body, and secure with worm drive clamps.
To provide a moisture seal, stretch and apply a turn of grey mastic tape around:
The top of the metal cable gland body.
The outer cable jacket.
This ensures that the cold shrink tube will recover properly onto the tape.
Position the cold shrink tube.
Begin pulling the plastic spiral carefully.
Do not pull the spiral straight.
Wrap it around the cable to avoid snagging.
Once fitted, apply the provided black EPR tape at both the top and bottom of the tube.
Fig 1: Base plate and initial configuration
Fig 2: Wire armour open-up
Fig 3: Clamp setup with screen earth braid
Fig 4: Final assembly with cold shrink and sealing tapes
Cable Glands Distributed from Stock by Thorne & Derrick | the 501/453 range of Universal Cable Glands manufactured by Hawke are suitable for the mechanical retention, glanding and termination of LV MV HV Power Cables with steel wire armour, steel wire braid or steel tape armour.
Shrink Polymer Systems heatshrink cable joints and terminations suit all types of MV-HV electrical cables (single or multi-core) with or without armour or lead sheaths – zero halogen and fire resistant cable joints are also available.
At Thorne & Derrick, we pride ourselves on working with industry leaders to deliver innovative, reliable, and compliant solutions to our customers. In this edition of Ask the Experts, Ian Joynson, Technical Specialist at Filoform, talks all things duct sealing — from common challenges in the field to the importance of long-term protection.
Filoform’s Ian Joynson shares expert guidance on what to consider when selecting the right duct sealing solution:
“Selection should start by understanding the specific application and what the seal needs to achieve. Consider:
➖ Are there cables present, and how many?
➖ Is water ingress an issue? If so, how much?
➖ Is fire protection required?
➖ Does the duct enter a building?
➖ Are gases or chemicals a concern?
The right solution should be chosen during the design phase, where sealing requirements can be aligned with the overall project scope.
Most specifications will demand resistance to water, gas, and sometimes fire or chemicals. Expected seal life is also critical — and any reputable manufacturer should be able to validate this.
Avoid over-engineering the seal design. Ultimately, a duct sealing solution that meets the specific needs of the application is the right solution.”
Thorne & Derrick is trusted distributor of Filoform duct sealing systems, supplying reliable and high-performance solutions to contractors, engineers, and project teams across the UK and internationally. Whether you’re sealing cable ducts in substations, renewable energy sites, or industrial facilities, we provide expert support and fast delivery to help you get the job done right.
Duct sealing and sealing products manufactured by Filoform, including the Filoseal range, are installed to provide gas tight and watertight sealing for cable duct entries – protecting underground cables and substation ducting infrastructure against flood and migration of flammable and toxic gas hazards. Fire resistant version also available – suitable for sealing LV-HV power, telecoms and fibre optic cables.
Filoform manufacture and supply quality products and solutions to connect, seal and protect low, medium and high voltage underground cable networks.
Thorne & Derrick provide competitive prices and fast delivery from stock for the complete range of Filoform duct seals and cable joints.
View the complete range of Filoform products.
FiloSeal+HD Duct Sealing System
As a trusted distributor of Lucy Zodion EV Feeder Pillars, Thorne & Derrick are proud to support the delivery of safe, robust, and future-ready power distribution solutions for electric vehicle charging networks.
In the article below featured in EV & Renewables Supplement, Matt Page, EV expert at Lucy Zodion, explores the critical factors beyond deployment speed that define a successful EV infrastructure rollout.
Lucy Zodion manufacture a wide range of products suitable to provide Low Voltage Electrical Power Distribution for EV charge points – from distribution network operator (DNO) accredited cut-outs and isolators for on-street chargers, to feeder pillars for electrical vehicle charging.
Lucy Zodion’s EVIS (Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Solutions) range delivers pre-wired EV feeder pillars from 100A to 630A reducing time on site and streamlining installation.
Beyond Speed: How to Future-Proof Your Infrastructure
Discover how strategic planning, scalability, and long-term resilience are key to building a charging network that’s ready for tomorrow.
Conversations around EV infrastructure often focus on speed – how quickly can a charging station be deployed, and how fast it can charge a vehicle. While speed is important, it’s not the only factor that determines success. True future-proofing means designing charging infrastructure that is resilient, scalable and adaptable to changing demands and evolving technology.
Many charging hubs installed today will need to evolve as EV adoption increases. The latest figures from Zapmap show there are now over 75,000 public charge points in the UK our demand is expected to grow significantly and infrastructure that isn’t designed with scalability in mind will quickly become obsolete.
For example, at InstaVolt’s Camphill Village Trust charging site, the approach to power distribution was designed with long-term scalability in mind. The specialised our Main Supply Pillars powering the site’s 160kW chargers were built to support future expansion while maintaining a minimal footprint. Taking this kind of forward-looking approach can prevent costly redesign later on
Similarly, the Isle of Man’s phased EV rollout demonstrates how strategic planning can ensure charging infrastructure is deployed with future expansion in mind. A well-planned approach to power distribution means sites can scale up as EV adoption increases without requiring extensive retrofits.
Reliability is just as critical as speed. A charging hub that experiences frequent outages due to inadequate electrical protection or environmental wear will create frustration for drivers and site owners alike. Key resilience-focused features to consider include:
Integrating these features from the outset can help prevent operational disruptions, enhancing user confidence and reducing long-term costs.
The M7 Real Estate project delivered by Source EV – a joint venture between SSE Energy Solutions and Total Energy – highlights the benefits of durable, weather-resistant power distribution. In high-usage environments, ensuring electrical protection and ease or maintenance is crucial for long-term success.
Future-proofing isn’t just about the technology – it’s about the process. The most effective EV infrastructure projects take a holistic, end-to-end approach, Considering electrical distribution, space constraints and future adaptability from the start.
A strong example of this is the InstaVolt project, where power distribution was designed to allow flexibility for future transformer manufacturers equipment. Taking a collaborative approach with stakeholders ensures infrastructure remains adaptable to evolving industry requirements.
The shift to electric mobility is accelerating and infrastructure needs to keep up – not just with speed, but with smart, future-proofed design. Viewing EV infrastructure as an evolving system rather than a one-off installation can help ensure today’s investments continue to deliver value well into the future.
Incorporating scalable electrical systems, built-in resilience and cross-industry collaboration from the outset can help create charging networks that remain effective as demand and technology evolve. By planning with the long term in mind, we can ensure EV charging infrastructure stays ahead of demand, rather than struggling to catch up.
When specifying an EV feeder pillar, you need to make sure it is tested to the following standards:
Considering these key points will ensure that your EV feeder pillar is designed to deliver efficient and reliable power distribution for electric vehicle charging, contributing to a sustainable and greener future.
Lucy Zodion | Fortress Feeder Pillars | Pre-Wired Feeder Pillars | Street Lighting Cut-Outs | DNO Cut-Outs | Electrical Power Distribution Enclosures
Thorne & Derrick | Distributed from Stock | Approved Supplier | UK & Export Sales
Installing Hawke cable glands correctly is essential to ensure the integrity, safety, and performance and cable termination of your LV MV HV electrical systems—especially in hazardous environments like oil & gas, petrochemical and industrial sectors.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the correct method for installing Hawke cable glands, share common mistakes to avoid, and explain why proper installation matters.
1. Select the Right Cable Gland
Identify the cable type and choose the correct Hawke gland suited to both your cable and application. For example:
501/453/Universal – for unarmoured cable
501/453/RAC – for armoured cable
Confirm compatibility with:
Cable diameter
Armour type (SWA, braid, tape, etc.)
Zone rating (Zone 1, Zone 2)
2. Prepare the Cable
Strip the cable sheath as specified
Ensure no damage to internal conductors or armour
Trim and shape armour to fit cleanly inside the gland
3. Assemble the Hawke Cable Gland
Follow Hawke’s installation sequence precisely. Key components include:
Entry item
Inner and outer seals
Armour cone and clamping ring (for armoured cables)
Compression nut
Install in the correct order and apply any IP sealing washers where required.
4. Tighten & Secure
Use two spanners:
One to hold the gland body
One to tighten the compression nut to the recommended torque
This ensures:
Proper grip on the cable
Correct compression of sealing elements
Safe electrical continuity and strain relief
The cable gland is permanently marked with various lines/numbers indicating the correct tightening level related to the cable diameter. Following the relevant cable gland Installation Instructions, the back seal should be tightened until a seal is formed on the cable outer sheath and then tightened one further turn
5. Final Cable Gland Checks
Confirm ingress protection (IP rating)
Check earth continuity for armoured installations
Inspect for visible damage or loose components
❌ Using the wrong gland type for the cable
❌ Over-tightening or under-tightening
❌ Incorrect sequence of gland components
❌ Poor cable preparation or incorrect stripping of cable
❌ Forgetting to earth the armour
Hawke’s range of cable glands are globally recognised for their robust construction, Ex-rated safety, and easy-to-install designs.
Whether it’s Ex d (flameproof), Ex e (increased safety), or Ex nR (restricted breathing), Hawke has a solution that safeguards your installation integrity—whatever the environment.
At Thorne & Derrick, we help you get it right the first time. As trusted Stockists & Distributors of Hawke cable glands, we provide:
Technical support
Product selection advice
Same-day dispatch for stocked cable gland items
Contact our team today or explore our full range of Hawke cable glands.
Thorne & Derrick | Preferred UK Stockists & Distributors for Klauke
Klauke’s battery-powered hydraulic bolt cutters are indeed a game-changer for precision, speed, and safety.
The innovative Bolt Cutting Tool designs and powerful features of these Klauke models make them ideal for cutting cable trays, bolts, and steel wire with maximum efficiency and minimal effort.
The Klauke range of models provides specialised solutions for different tasks, ensuring that professionals can find the perfect tool for their needs.
Should you require technical assistance to select the correct cable crimping or cable cutting tools please contact us.
Whether you’re working with smaller or larger cables and bolts, Klauke’s tools provide the precision and power necessary to get the job done right.
Let’s dive into the specifics of each of the Klauke tool models mentioned:
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Klauke EBS 6 L GKS
The EBS 6 L GKS is a compact and versatile model designed for cutting smaller cables and bolts with high precision. It is particularly ideal for tight spaces and allows for easy handling without compromising on cutting power. The ergonomic design ensures comfort during prolonged use, and the quick, clean cuts are a testament to its efficiency. |
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Klauke EBS 8 ML The EBS 8 ML offers enhanced cutting capabilities, making it perfect for medium-sized cables and bolts. Its battery-powered hydraulic system provides smooth operation with minimal force, while the robust construction ensures durability. This model is known for its balanced performance and excellent cutting power, which makes it suitable for a variety of tasks. |
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Klauke EBS 12 ML With an even greater cutting capacity, the EBS 12 ML excels in cutting larger cables and bolts. Its high-performance battery ensures consistent power throughout its operation, and the hydraulic mechanism delivers clean, precise cuts every time. This model is designed for heavy-duty use while still maintaining ease of handling and mobility. |
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Klauke EBS 8 The EBS 8 model offers an excellent balance between performance and size, making it suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks. Whether you’re working with medium-sized bolts, cables, or trays, this model combines strength, speed, and user-friendly features, ensuring high productivity and safety on the job site. |
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Klauke EBS 12 The EBS 12 is a powerhouse, designed to handle the toughest cutting challenges. Its powerful battery and hydraulic cutting system can tackle the most demanding tasks, ensuring that larger steel wires, bolts, and trays are cut effortlessly. It is engineered for high-volume work, offering both efficiency and reliability in the toughest conditions. |
These 3 Klauke bolt cutters – EBS 6 L GKS, EBS 8 & EBS 12 – effortlessly cut a wide variety of cables, conductors or cable trays.
Specialist Distributors of LV HV Cable Jointing, Earthing, Substation & Electrical Eqpt up to 66kV – this includes the most extensive range of Ex Stock Innovation Tooling to facilitate safe and reliable preparation, termination and installation of cables.
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