A Spring-Fast Grommet Edge Gets U.S. Coast Guard Nod

Device Technology's Spring-Fast grommet edging was selected for installation on Agusta A109 Power helicopters, including helicopters ordered from U.S. Coast Guard's HITRON TEN's (Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron Ten) program. The grommet edging, approved by the FAA and DOD for all types of aircraft application, consists of a composite polymer that encapsulates a stainless steel spring with a protective cushion. "The A109 Power marks an important new application of Spring-Fast on helicopters, where the operating environment requires a maximum of protection for wiring and hydraulic tubing," said Nicholas Petri, Device Technology president. The unique feature of Spring-Fast is the ability to snap into place, on openings in avionics racks and structures, the edging using only one hand by applying pressure with your fingers. Touted as an alternative to traditional nylon grommets, Spring-fast is not susceptible to drying out, cracking and does not require adhesives to install. Device Technology said the faster installation times could result in a 30-60 percent reduction in the cost of preparing an airframe, when compared to using the adhesive-applied nylon grommets. The installation approval for the A109 Power marks the second use of the Spring-Fast grommet edging for the U.S. Coast Guard, with the other being the avionics upgrades of 30 Aerospatiale HH-65 Dolphins.