Can I extend a frame later?

Yes, provided you fit blanking plugs on the spare positions now. Later simply swap a plug for a grommet without cutting the enclosure.

Are entry frames EMC-capable?

Only in versions with conductive grommets or contact springs that contact the cable screen all round. A standard plastic grommet insulates and provides no shield continuity.

Which cut-out should I make in the enclosure wall?

Each frame type has an exact cut-out dimension with hole pattern given by the maker; find it in the datasheet on the product page. Do not deviate, as the gasket seals on that dimension.

Cable entry systems explained: frame, grommet or brush

Figure: Split entry frame with grommets: connectorised cables enter sideways, then the frame closes.

Which entry types exist?

Broadly four: the classic gland for a single cable, the membrane grommet that closes around the cable sheath, the split frame holding several grommets side by side, and the brush or foam seal for bundles where sealing is not required. In addition there are pressure-resistant entries for ATEX and fire-rated entries for wall penetrations.

Gland: single cable, highest IP rating, cheapest per unit.
Membrane grommet: loose cable without connector, fast to fit, IP66 possible.
Split frame: connectorised cables, high packing density per m² of wall.
Brush: large bundles, no IP claim, but dust and rodent protection.

Why a split frame for connectors?

A pre-terminated cable with an M12, Harting or RJ45 connector will not pass through a closed opening without removing the connector. A split frame opens, the cable is laid sideways into the grommet, and the frame bolts shut; the grommet clamps the sheath and seals. This saves assembly time and prevents errors from re-terminating.

Which sealing level do you get with what?

A frame with sealed grommets and a perimeter gasket reaches IP54 to IP66, provided every unused grommet is filled with a blanking plug and the bolts are tightened crosswise. Brush seals achieve no IP rating: they are intended against dust, chips and rodents, for example under a machine frame or in a cable duct.

An entry is also strain relief

EN 60204-1 requires connections to be free of tension. Clamping grommets provide part of that strain relief, but with heavy or moving cables fit a separate clamping rail 100 to 200 mm behind the entry. That keeps force away from the terminal strip and preserves the seal.

Table — Entry types compared

Type	Connector possible	Sealing	Typical application
Wartel	Nee	IP66–IP68	Enkele kabel in kast
Membraantule	Nee	IP66	Losse kabels, hoge dichtheid
Geteeld frame	Ja	IP54–IP66	Machinebouw, servicewand
Borstelafdichting	Ja	Geen IP	Kabelgoot, machineframe
Brandwerende doorvoer	Beperkt	EI30–EI120	Wanddoorbraak gebouw

Frequently asked questions

Can I extend a frame later?: Yes, provided you fit blanking plugs on the spare positions now. Later simply swap a plug for a grommet without cutting the enclosure.
Are entry frames EMC-capable?: Only in versions with conductive grommets or contact springs that contact the cable screen all round. A standard plastic grommet insulates and provides no shield continuity.
Which cut-out should I make in the enclosure wall?: Each frame type has an exact cut-out dimension with hole pattern given by the maker; find it in the datasheet on the product page. Do not deviate, as the gasket seals on that dimension.

Cable entry systems: frames, grommets and brush seals