Grommets are rings that are inserted through or into a hole to prevent the material from wearing out, tearing, or abrasion. They can be installed to protect the material or to protect other material, like wires, cables, or tubing that passes through the hole. You can also use a grommet to improve the look of a product if it has uneven or sharp edges. The rubber grommets are usually collared or flared on either of its sides in order to keep them in place. Also, they can be bonded to parts made from metal.
Rubber grommets are a great choice for several reasons, they are weather-resistant, resistant to high temperatures, durable, wear-resistant, resistant to chemicals, they stay in place, and they are easy to install. All of these reasons make them a great sealing solution for various industries.
There are three basic types of grommets: open grommets, blind grommets, and semi-blind grommets. Let’s take a closer look at the types and how they are used:
1. Open rubber grommets
As mentioned before, an open grommet can be used to protect the pipes, cables, and wires that are passing through the metal panels. They can be made from different rubber, such as neoprene, EPDM, nitrile, silicone, or natural rubber in order to fit industrial and anti-vibration purposes.
2. Blind rubber grommets
A blind grommet is one that is used for filling in holes in metal panels. The range of the rubber usually accommodates panels that are thicker. They can also be made from various materials, and as the open grommets, they are used to fit the industrial and anti-vibration purposes.
3. Semi-blind grommets
A semi-blind grommet can be used as an open and a blind grommet. The membrane of it is thick enough to give a good seal, but it is thin enough to be punctured if needed by the cables or wires, so they can be used as open grommets as well.
If you want to learn what other types or grommets are, you can find out more here.
What can they be used for?
1. The automotive industry
The rubber grommets are often used in the automotive industry in order to prevent metal components from warming up, prevent vibration, and seal the engine parts. Due to them being resistant to abrasion and temperature, they can be used in various parts of the automotive industry. They allow the parts used for making a car to run better, as well as last longer.
2. Wire and cable protection
One of the main reasons for using grommets is the high levels of protection that they offer. Hence, when cable, wires, and tubes need protection from abrasion and sharp edges, grommets are the best solution. The make sure that the cables, wires, or tubes that go through them do not get cut, fried, or damaged, which means that they will last longer.
3. Heavy machinery
They are also used in factories and heavy machinery. The machines used in factories are subject to daily heavy use and they a good solution in order for them to run smoothly and reduce the downtime. This saves the company a lot of money and time. The grommets are usually applied to the machines when needed in order for them to keep running.
Conclusion
Grommets are practical, effective, and efficient in various situations when you might need assistance with something. Considering that they are cheap and that they come in different sizes and shapes, there is a good chance that you will be able to find exactly what you need.
