PG (Panzergewinde) thread

What is PG (Panzergewinde) thread?

PG (Panzergewinde) thread is a German-origin threading standard used especially in electrical installations and protective conduits. The PG thread (Panzergewinde) was developed to protect electrical conductors and to connect them to metal armored conduits. Connections with PG threads are common in electrical engineering, ensuring tight and safe joints for cable glands and junction boxes.

Characteristics of PG (Panzergewinde) thread

The PG thread is based on the metric system, but its thread pitch and diameter differ from the standard ISO metric thread. PG threads have a finer pitch, which allows thinner walls and lighter connections compared to BSP or NPT threads. This makes it particularly useful in electrical installations where compact and durable connections are required.

PG threads are available in various sizes and are designated by numbers such as PG7, PG9, PG11, PG13.5, PG16, PG21, etc. Each size corresponds to a specific cable diameter, ensuring a proper fit with cable glands and protective conduits.

Use of PG (Panzergewinde) thread in machine shops

In machine shops, PG threads can be used in electrical enclosures, cable glands, and electrical cabinet connections, especially when a robust and mechanically protective solution is needed. Fittings with PG threads are also used in automation applications, where cable protection and safe wiring are critically important.

In electromechanical assemblies, PG-threaded parts can be machined precisely by turning or thread cutting. This allows them to be combined with other components without additional adapters, simplifying installations and improving reliability.

Comparison of PG thread with other thread standards

The PG thread differs from other commonly used thread forms, such as metric ISO thread and BSP thread. Compared to metric thread, the PG thread has a smaller thread pitch, making it a better choice for electrical installations where cable sealing and protection are crucial. BSP and NPT threads, on the other hand, are more common in pressure piping and fluid connections, where they provide better sealing against liquids and gases.

PG thread is used mostly in Europe, but its use has declined as standardized metric threads have become more widespread. Nevertheless, it remains important in many electrical applications and mechanical assemblies.

Summary

PG (Panzergewinde) thread is a thread type developed specifically for electrical installations, providing tight and durable connections for cables and protective conduits. It is widely used in machine shops for electrical enclosures and cable glands. PG thread differs from metric and BSP threads due to its finer pitch, which makes it particularly suitable for electromechanical connections.