How to choose the right cable gland
Density & flexibility in practice

Q: When should I choose multi-flange over modular system?

A multi-flange is often the right choice when: Cables lack connectors Many cables need to pass through the same opening High density is required Cost and ease of installation are prioritized For pre-terminated cables, however, a modular system is usually more suitable.

Q: What is the difference between KEL-U and KEL-ER?

KEL-U is a divisible cable entry system for cables with connectors, focusing on high density and easy installation. The KEL-ER is based on the same fundamental principle but also features an openable frame, making it even easier to retrofit or service cables in existing installations. In brief: Product Advantage KEL-U Compact and sealed solution for cables with connectors KEL-ER Openable frame for quick service and retrofitting KEL-ER is often chosen for machines and automation systems where cables need to be regularly replaced or added.

The correct cable entry determines both tightness, flexibility and serviceability.
The choice is governed by how often you need to maintain the system, what IP requirements apply and whether the cables are routed with or without connectors.

Explore the right cable gland for tightness, flexibility, and serviceability.

Modular systems
(for cables with connector)

IP class: IP54 – IP68
For cables with connectors
High flexibility & easy service

Typical applications include:
Machine builder, automation, energy

Cable entry system
for cables with connector

Cable entry plates
& Multi-flanges

IP class: IP54 – IP68
Too many cables without connectors
High density & fast installation

Typical applications include:
panel builder, electrical cabinet

Cable gland plates
and multi-flanges →

Cable entry systems
with brush seal

Flexible solution with brush sealing
Low IP rating, simple & quick assembly
For service panels & retrofitting

Typical applications include:
robotics, machine service panels

See cable glands
with brush seal

Which cable gland should I choose?

Cables with
finished contact

Modular systems

Many cables
without contact

Multi-fin

Frequent service
easy access

Brush seal

Maximum density
IP requirements

Modular or
multi-fly

Cost effective
solution

Brush seal

2. IP classes in practice

The IP rating determines how well a cable gland protects against dust and water.
Below is a comparison of the most common levels and their typical uses.

IP class	Damn	Water	Typical uses
IP54	Limited dust protection (dustproof)	Splash protection from all directions	Service panels, robotics
IP65	Dammtät	Protection against water jets mouthpiece	Panel builder, control cabinet
IP66	Dammtät	Protection against strong water jets	Industrial environments, outdoor installations
IP68	Dammtät	Protection during submersion (long-lasting)	Demanding environments, outdoors with immersion

2. Combined table overview

Different types of cable gland systems have their strengths and limitations.
Below we compare function, IP rating, advantages, and typical uses.

Type	Cables with connectors?	IP class	Advantages	Limitations	Typical uses	Example (Icotek)
Modular systems	Yes	IP54 – IP68	Contacts can pass, high flexibility, easy service and retrofitting	More expensive than simpler solutions	Machine builder, automation, energy	GOALKEEPER, GOALscorer
Plates & Multi-flanges	✖ No	IP54 – IP68	High density, easy and fast installation, many cables	Not designed for pre-made connectors	Panel builder, control cabinet	KEL-DPZ, KEL-DPU
Brush seal	Yes	Low IP rating	Flexible, low cost, service-friendly, easy retrofitting	Limited protection against dust and water	Robotics, service panels, machine service	KDR-BES-U

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Cable Gland

Which solution provides the highest density?

Modular cable entry systems and cable entry plates can achieve very high sealing classes, often up to IP66–IP68 depending on the model and installation. For installations with high requirements for dust and water protection, these solutions are usually the best choice.

Can cables with connectors be run through a multi-flange?

No. Cable glands and multi-flanges are intended for cables without fitted connectors. If the cables already have connectors, you will typically need to choose a modular cable entry system that allows you to pass the connectors without dismantling them.

When should I choose multi-flange over modular system?

A multi-flange connection is often the right choice when:

The cables lack connectors
Many cables will pass through the same opening
High density is required
Cost and ease of installation are prioritized

For pre-terminated cables, however, a modular system is often more suitable.

What IP rating is needed outdoors?

For outdoor installations, at least IP65 is normally recommended. In more demanding environments with heavy cleaning, water jets, or high exposure to the elements, IP66 or IP68 is often used.

Environment	Recommended IP rating
Indoor	IP54–IP55
Industry	IP65
Outside	IP65–IP66
Demanding outdoor environment	IP66–IP68

Can cable glands be retrofitted?

Yes. Modular cable gland systems are particularly suitable for retrofitting. They make it possible to add or change cables without dismantling existing connectors, which reduces both downtime and installation work.

What is the difference between KEL-U and KEL-ER?

KEL-U is a divisible cable entry system for cables with connectors, focusing on high density and ease of installation.

KEL-ER built on the same basic principle but also has an openable frame, making it even easier to retrofit or service cables in existing installations.

In short: