Install Grommets

Grommets can keep sharp sheet metal panels from slicing electrical wires, tubing, and other items passing through or across them. They are also used to reinforce holes for bootlaces, as well as for other laced clothing and any household item that must hang from hooks (e.g. curtains). However, installing them can be tricky.

Steps

 * 1)  [[Image:Install_grommet_2.jpg|thumb|Check the panel thickness.]]Select the right grommet. Determine the purpose of the grommet.  Is it to protect against the sharp edge of a panel?  Is it to provide a finished appearance?  Is it to keep dust or liquid in or out?  Does it need to provide some strain relief (protection against sharp bends) to the object passing through it?
 * 2) *Measure the object that will pass through the grommet, the diameter of the tube, wire, or bundle that you wish to protect. If you're putting a fitting or connector through the grommet, make sure to take that into account.
 * 3) *Measure the hole that the grommet will fill or, if possible, drill or punch correct the hole according to the recommended size for the grommet.
 * 4) *Measure the space available. Usually grommets have some outer dimension wider than the hole.  Make sure that this outer flange will fit.
 * 5) *Measure or select the correct thickness of the panel.
 * 6) Place the object(s) to be protected through the grommet and through the hole, but only if you expect to have any difficulty inserting them afterwards.
 * 7) *[[Image:Install_grommet_3.jpg|thumb|Slit the grommet, if necessary.]]For simple rubber grommets, one option may be to open a slit in the side of the grommet with razor blade, sharp knife, or simply a pair of scissors.
 * 8) *A dab of personal lube (K-Y for example) around the outside and slot of the grommet is very helpful, it's oil free, inert, and dries clear with no residue. Wipe off excess.
 * 9) *Letting them sit in boiling water for a few minute makes them more pliable also. Then you can wrap the open grommet around just the middle of a wire or tube.
 * 10)  [[Image:Install_grommet_4.jpg|thumb|Push one side on.]]Push one side of one flange through the opening.
 * 11)  [[Image:Install_grommet_5.jpg|thumb|Work your way around.]]Work all the way around the opening, bending the grommet as required.
 * 12) *[[Image:Install_grommet_6.jpg|thumb|A tool can aid installation.]]A soft object, such as this plastic soldering aid, can assist in inserting the grommet.
 * 13) *If you have access to the opposite side of the material, it may help to pull the grommet through or simply to hold it in place.
 * 14)  Choose the correct thickness of grommet edging for your edge.
 * 15)  [[Image:Install_grommet_7.jpg|thumb|Push grommet edging over the edge of the material.]]Push it over the edge you wish to protect.  You may have to pull the sides open a little bit with your fingers as you go.
 * 16) *Depending on the application, a bit of appropriate adhesive can help to hold the edging in place.
 * 17)  Go around corners either by bending the edging (best for round corners) or by cutting the edging to length.
 * 18)  Feed the wire or tube through the opening, if you didn't already.

Tips

 * Grommets with an inner diameter greater than about 1 inch (25mm) can be difficult to find. In these cases, it may be best to use grommet edging.
 * There are other solutions for getting wires and other items through openings. Try a web search on any of the following: bushing, strain relief, cable strain relief, Kellem grip.
 * Some grommets are designed to pop in from one side. If you have one of these, simply push it into the hole.
 * [[Image:Eyelet_711.jpg|thumb|A tool for metal eyelets.]] To install most metal grommets, you'll generally need a suitable tool for them.
 * If the fit is a bit tight, an easy way to install the rubber grommet is to use silicone applied around the outside of the grommet just before pressing it into place. Using a silicone sealant will help keep it in place after the silicone dries too. In a pinch, plain grease or Vaseline will do but they will not dry up. In such a case, Dawn dish liquid will help to remove the residue after the installation is complete.

Warnings

 * Sharp sheet metal edges can cut you, cables, or tubing. Be careful when working around them. You should always use a half round/flat mill file, deburring tool, emery cloth or something sharp like the back edge of a utility knife to 'break' (scrape off) the rough edges of the hole or the metal sheet. Attach masking tape in a way to catch metal filings if filing around electronics.
 * Be aware that cutting the grommet for installation creates a potential gap for fine wires to pull through and contact the metal hole..
 * A basic grommet may provide some protection against dust and splashes, but if you need an air- or watertight seal, strain relief, or electromagnetic shielding, you may need to use a device that is designed accordingly. Another alternative, depending on your application, may be to install a bulkhead fitting or connector where the tube or cable penetrates the wall.

Related Tips and Steps
Instalar Ilhoses
 * How to Use Eyelet Pliers
 * How to Insert a Drawstring
 * How to Sew a Drawstring Backpack
 * How to Wire a Phone Jack