Product Description
What It Does
When you punch a hole in a mainline pipe, the edges of the hole can be rough. The pipe wall thickness may also be thin. A grommet lines the hole and seals the gap between the pipe wall and the fitting.
This one has double lips: one on the inside of the pipe, one on the outside, so it stays in place and prevents leaks. The rubber compresses around the fitting for a watertight seal.
How to Use
Punch a 16mm hole in the mainline pipe. Use a hand drill punch with a 16mm bit. Remove any plastic shavings from inside and outside the pipe.
Push the grommet into the hole. Start with one lip, then work the other lip through. The grommet should sit centred in the hole with both lips visible: one inside the pipe, one outside.
Then push your 16mm start connector or fitting through the grommet. The fitting should pass through the centre hole of the grommet. The rubber expands around the fitting.
Why Use a Grommet
Without a grommet, a fitting inserted directly into a thin wall pipe may leak. The pipe wall may not provide enough compression. The grommet adds material and creates a tighter seal.
Use a grommet whenever: the pipe wall is thinner than 1.5 mm, the hole is slightly oversized, or the fitting feels loose when inserted dry.
For thick wall PVC pipe (Schedule 40 or heavier), a grommet is usually not needed.
Material and Durability
The grommet is made of EPDM or nitrile rubber. Both resist UV, ozone, and common agricultural chemicals. The rubber stays flexible for several seasons.
Over time, the rubber may harden and crack. Replace grommets when you see visible cracks or when the fitting no longer seals.
Installation Tips
Lubricate the grommet and the fitting with a drop of liquid soap or silicone grease. This makes insertion easier and prevents tearing. Do not use petroleum based lubricants; they can damage the rubber.
If the grommet does not stay in the hole, the hole may be too large. Use a smaller bit or replace the pipe section.
IrriHub provides reliable irrigation and farm systems for small and medium‑scale farmers across Kenya. For help choosing the right product for your farm, reach out to us directly. Call us: +254 729 717 881. Visit our store: Shubham Complex, Old Mombasa Rd.