AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 0056B Accredited
Posted on April 11, 2025 Eon Lewis Aerospace
Often overlooked due to their small size, grommets are essential components that quietly perform critical functions across a wide range of industries like electronics, automotive, aerospace, and construction. Though simple in appearance, they serve as the unsung protectors of cables, reinforcers of fabric, and enablers of safe and organized systems. In this blog, we will provide an overview of what a grommet is, explore different types, and cover basic functions, so keep reading to learn more.
A grommet is a small yet crucial component used to protect, reinforce, or guide materials through openings present on a particular part or assembly. The grommet will generally be a ring-shaped piece that is inserted into a hole of such a surface, allowing cords, wires, ropes, pipes, and other items to pass through without causing damage to either the object or surrounding materials. Whether installed in fabric, plastic, metal, or rubber surfaces, a grommet plays an important role across household and industrial settings.
One of the most common uses of a grommet is to protect electrical wires or cables that pass through metal or hard plastic panels. For such applications, the grommet acts as a buffer between sharp edges and delicate insulation, helping to prevent cuts, abrasions, or electrical short circuits.
In offices, homes, and industrial control panels, grommets also offer a neat and organized way to route cables through desks, walls, or cabinets. This improves aesthetics and safety while reducing clutter.
In soft materials like fabric or vinyl, holes are prone to fraying or tearing under stress. Grommets provide reinforcement at these points, adding strength that extends the material's lifespan, especially in high-tension applications like tarps, banners, and sails.
In mechanical systems, grommets are used to dampen vibrations. When wires or tubes run through vibrating surfaces, rubber or silicone grommets help absorb the motion that ensues, reducing noise and preventing wear and tear on the materials involved.
Certain grommets, such as rubber variants, are designed to seal off openings from moisture, dust, or gasses. These types are particularly useful in automotive, marine, and outdoor electrical applications, where exposure to elements is common.
Rubber grommets are flexible and heat-resistant, making them ideal for protecting cables and wires. They are widely used in automotive and electronic applications due to their ability to resist vibration and environmental damage, while their sealing capability makes them a preferred choice for outdoor use.
Metal grommets are strong and corrosion-resistant as they are made from materials like brass, stainless steel, or aluminum. These are commonly used in heavy-duty applications like tarpaulins, curtains, industrial covers, and signage, where their durability makes them suitable for applications exposed to tension and repeated movement.
Plastic grommets are lightweight and inexpensive, offering moderate strength and insulation. Often used in office furniture, cable desks, and consumer electronics, they are notable for being easy to install and come in various colors and sizes to suit different aesthetic or functional needs.
These grommets are designed for easy installation without the use of tools, where they can be manually pressed into place by hand. Snap-in grommets are generally made from flexible materials and known for being most suited for temporary setups or lightweight projects where speed and simplicity are key.
This type of grommet is usually used to protect cables that run through metal openings, offering extra insulation and reduced strain on materials. Bushing and panel grommets are commonly found in control panels and enclosures, helping assemblies meet safety and regulatory standards, among other objectives.
Specifically made for textile applications, these grommets are used in drapery, upholstery, and clothing. In such settings, they provide a sturdy edge for hooks or cords, as well as improve the appearance of the finished product.
For premium grommet components or any other part type of need, trust Aviation Grade Hardware to meet your procurement needs. Owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, an AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B accredited distributor, our website features an inventory of more than 2 billion part listings that are sourced from trustworthy manufacturers and suppliers. To begin the purchasing process, fill out a Request for Quote (RFQ) form online. Once we receive your submission and review it, one of our representatives will connect with you within 15 minutes to provide timely fulfillment options.
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