Save time and cost with 3D-printed on-demand vulcanizable cable grommets

Used in a range of applications, including automotive, electronics, off-highway equipment and industrial machinery, vulcanized cable grommets offer protection between cables and metal components. Over time, cable grommets wear and need replacement. To install a new cable grommet, the cables typically need to be clamped, pulled through the new grommet and reconnected. Replacement can take a lot of time and requires a certified electrician.

To save time and labor, a split cable grommet can be installed over the cable and bonded together for continuous protection. Cable grommets manufactured using Chromatic 3D Materials RX-AM™ additive manufacturing technology meet the mechanical engineering requirements for industrial use. These grommets can be produced without tooling in any size at very low volumes—great for producing replacement and discontinued parts. Unlike traditional 3D printing materials that cannot produce a grommet geometry successfully, Chromatic isotropic materials retain elasticity, are non-porous, and resist weather, temperature and chemicals.

Installation of Chromatic additive manufactured grommets involves spreading the grommet open and pulling it over the cable. A small amount of polyurethane (PU) glue is applied to the surface of the split using a hand extruder. The grommet can now be moved to the final installation location. After curing, the PU adhesive has the same material properties as the printed PU cable grommet, creating a secure seal.

Depending on the application, this new cable grommet system can save 2–3 hours of labor. The time and cost savings more than accommodate the added cost for the additive-manufactured part.

Learn more about Chromatic’s RX-AM technology for additive manufacturing of flexible materials by visiting www.c3dmaterials.com.

Chromatic 3D Materials

Chromatic 3D Materials is a 3D printing technology company focused on more flexible, cost-effective and sustainable manufacturing of industrial-strength elastomeric products. Its portfolio includes printable polyurethanes and other thermoset elastomers for applications in transportation, industrial seals and gaskets, textiles, medical devices and defense. Chromatic’s RX-AM materials and technology platform is based on Reactive Extrusion Additive Manufacturing, a type of deposition 3D printing that uses chemical reactions. Founded in 2016 by CEO Dr. Cora Leibig, Chromatic now has facilities in the United States and Germany. Visit www.c3dmaterials.com to learn more.