Grommets vs. Rivets
When dealing with various hardware and fasteners that are to be used on an assembly such as an aircraft or an industrial machine, it is crucial that you have ample understanding of each component and its function. While a hobby project may only be set back by the mistake of using a screw instead of a bolt, the same issue could be extremely costly or disastrous when it comes down to more complex and rigorous applications. One such distinction that is important to be aware of is grommets vs rivets, two unique hardware pieces that are used in similar settings while having their own set of applications and capabilities. In this blog, we will discuss the differences between grommets and rivets, allowing you to have a better grasp on how to take advantage of each.
In their most basic form, grommets, or eyelets, are small hardware components with a ring-shape, and they are generally placed into the hole of a surface to provide reinforcement. Grommets are commonly found in sheet metal objects, both strengthening surfaces while also permitting wires and other components to pass through without being damaged. For aerospace design, wires passing through layers of sheet metal is quite common, and the coating of the wires may become frayed over time as they continuously rub against the sharper edges of punched holes. With the addition of grommets, a smooth surface is provided for wires and cables to rest against, establishing a safe passage.
Rivets are quite different from grommets, as while similarly requiring a pre-cut hole for installation, they have a distinct design and role. Rivets are a type of permanent fastener, meaning they are intended to create a joint that holds two or more parts together. While available in a variety of types, the most basic forms of rivets feature a smooth, cylindrical shaft and a head on one side. To assemble components, the tail-end of the rivet is passed through the holes, and with a special tool or hammer, the tail is upset to form a secondary head. This locks the assembly in place until the rivet is broken. In some instances, a special rivet known as a blind fastener will be used, that of which features an internal mandrel that allows it to be installed from a single side of the assembly.
With a basic overview of each component, you can see how they are very distinct hardware parts that serve different roles. While grommets are small, circular pieces that are placed in a hole, rivets are longer fasteners that are passed through. Additionally, grommets are to reinforce surfaces and provide safe passages for wires while rivets are to secure two or more parts together. If you require rivets, grommets, or both component types for your operations, we encourage you to get in touch with one of our representatives at Internet of Industrials.
Internet of Industrials is a purchasing platform with over 2 billion listed items on our database. As everything is ready for purchase at any time, we encourage you to peruse our expansive part and manufacturer catalogs as you see fit. If you already have an idea of what you need, save time with our included search engine and filters. Once you are ready to begin procurement, submit a completed online RFQ form through our website, and a dedicated account manager will reach out to you within 15 minutes or less to provide a customized solution that caters to your needs. If you have any questions or concerns, give our team members a call at your earliest convenience, and they would be more than happy to assist you however they can!
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