Even the best cable in the world needs optimal protection 

The intralogistics industry is undergoing crucial development with the rise of automation and advanced drive technologies. Whether managing warehouses, conveyors or automated storage and retrieval systems, reliable and efficient connectivity solutions are essential. A key component within these systems is the cable gland. For optimal protection, a high-quality and durable solution is needed in demanding industrial environments. LAPP, specialized in cable and connection technology, therefore launched the SKINTOP cable gland.

"A cable gland is a mechanical component for inserting one or more cables or wires into the housing of a machine or control cabinet," begins Alexandru Custura, product manager Benelux at LAPP. "Glands must perform several interconnected functions simultaneously, think of providing strain relief for the cables, ensuring a reliable seal with different materials such as fluororubber, nitrile rubber, silicone or gel seals and providing protection against dust and water. Our SKINTOP glands meet all of these properties. The standard DIN EN 62444 forms the basis for the design, implementation and quality control of our cable glands."

Applications

In the intralogistics industry, reliable cable connections are essential for ensuring the continuous and efficient operation of smart energy management systems. "Our SKINTOP cable glands play a crucial role here by protecting cables from mechanical stress, prolonged movement, vibration and external influences such as dust, water or oil. They ensure safe installation in various applications." Custura elaborates on this. "In modern warehouses and distribution centers, conveyor belts are an important part of the logistics process. The motors and sensors that drive conveyors require safe and good cable connections. Optimal protection is also required in automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS). Cables there are exposed to movement, vibration, dust and sometimes humid environments. Proper protection is especially important because the cables that supply power and signals to motors, sensors and controls are crucial to the operation of the system."

Robot arms

Robotic arms are also increasingly being used in intralogistics facilities. "Think of pick-and-place robots and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), which are in constant motion. This constant movement puts considerable strain on the cabling that supplies the robots with power and control signals. Therefore, flexible and robust cables that are well protected from wear and damage are required. The cables must be held firmly in place to prevent them from bending, kinking or rubbing against sharp edges near where they are installed, which significantly extends their life."

Reliable for any application

"Our cable glands are known for their reliable sealing and secure attachment," Custura continues. "They have a protection rating of up to IP69K, which means they are resistant to dust, moisture and high-pressure cleaning. This is essential in industrial environments where machines are often intensively cleaned or exposed to dirt."

Optimal strain relief

Another important feature is strain relief. "Cables in industrial environments are often subjected to pulling, twisting or bending forces. The strain relief of our cable glands prevents these forces from damaging the cables, which is especially important in moving applications such as conveyors and robots."

Easy installation and maintenance

SKINTOP cable glands are easy to install. "This makes them very suitable in environments where quick action is crucial. They require no special tools, which ensures minimal downtime when servicing or replacing cables." The cable glands are available in a variety of designs, including plastic, brass and stainless steel, depending on the specific application. For environments where electromagnetic interference may be an issue, the SKINTOP MS-M BRUSH, with its unique 360° brass brush, provides optimal EMC protection. This ensures low resistance contact between the copper braid and screw connection.