Grommets

Cable grommets are essential components in electrical and industrial installations, designed to protect cables as they pass through panels, enclosures, and machinery. By preventing abrasion, sealing entry points, and providing strain relief, cable grommets help maintain system integrity and extend cable life.

At Rapid, we have a variety of grommet types and materials, each suited to specific environments and protection requirements.

Types of Cable Grommets and Their Functions

The standard cable grommet is the most commonly used type, offering a simple solution for protecting cables from sharp edges and vibration. These are ideal for general-purpose applications in control panels, junction boxes, and equipment housings.

Filler plugs are used to seal unused openings in enclosures, maintaining IP ratings and preventing dust or moisture ingress. They’re especially useful in modular systems where future expansion is planned.

Cable routers help guide and organise cables within panels or machinery, reducing clutter and improving airflow. These are often used in data centres and automation systems.

Strain relief grommets are designed to absorb mechanical stress and prevent cable damage caused by pulling or movement. They’re critical in dynamic environments where cables are subject to frequent handling or vibration.

Materials and Environmental Resistance

Cable grommets are manufactured from a range of materials to suit different operating conditions:

• Polyamide and Polyamide 6.6: Durable, heat-resistant, and commonly used in electrical enclosures.
• Elastomer: Flexible and ideal for sealing irregular shapes or providing vibration damping.
• EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): Offers excellent resistance to weathering, ozone, and chemicals, suitable for outdoor and industrial use.
• Polyethylene (PE): Lightweight and cost-effective for basic sealing tasks.
• PVC: Provides good flexibility and chemical resistance, often used in general-purpose applications.

IP Ratings and Protection Levels

Cable grommets contribute to the ingress protection (IP) rating of an enclosure, helping to safeguard internal components from dust, water, and other contaminants. Common IP ratings include:

• IP54: Protection against limited dust ingress and water spray
• IP65: Dust-tight and protected against low-pressure water jets
• IP66/IP67: High-level protection against dust and powerful water jets (IP66) or temporary immersion (IP67)

Choosing the right grommet with the appropriate IP rating ensures compliance with safety standards and enhances the longevity of your equipment.

Choose the Right Cable Grommet for Your Application

From basic cable protection to advanced sealing and strain relief, cable grommets play a vital role in maintaining safe and efficient installations. With options in material, type, and IP rating, they can be matched to a wide range of industrial and electrical environments. Explore our full range of cable grommets to find the right solution for your panel design, and consider pairing with cable glands and strain relief accessories for complete cable management.