Fiberglass grating is an increasingly popular material used by engineers. It has a wide range of applications from walkways to safety handrails and is known for its durability, heat resistance, and low maintenance. In this blog post, we’re going to explore the top five benefits of using fiberglass grating in engineering projects.
1. Fiberglass Grating Requires Little Effort to Maintain
Fiberglass grating is a low-maintenance material that can be easily cleaned with water and soap or diluted detergent. This makes it ideal for indoor applications such as meat packing facilities where food safety is paramount and for outdoor applications where the accumulation of dirt and dust is inevitable. Unlike other materials such as wood or metal, fiberglass gratings will not rot or corrode over time with exposure to the weather. It will continue to maintain structural integrity even when exposed to elements like salt water.
2. High Strength-to-Weight Ratio Compared to Traditional Materials
FRP is up to 70% lighter than steel while still providing excellent strength. This makes it perfect for areas where weight is a limiting factor but strength is a requirement. With fiberglass grating, engineers can create structures that are strong yet lightweight. Handling material that does not require heavy lifting also reduces the cost of labor (and transportation).
Check out this drop test video showing the durability of a fiberglass grate versus a steel grate...
3. Fiberglass Grating has Very Good Thermal Resistance Properties
Fiberglass grating has excellent thermal resistance properties, providing a safer alternative to steel in environments where thermal conductivity would pose a risk. This makes it an optimal choice for industrial settings where temperatures may reach high levels on a regular basis. The material also has proven fire resistance properties, making it safer than other materials in the event of a fire emergency. Look for fiberglass grating that adheres to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) technical standards, including:
- A flame spread of 25 or less as tested in accordance with ASTM E-84
- Meets the self-extinguishing requirements of ASTM D-635
4. This Non-Conductive Material Makes Your Work Environment Safer
Unlike steel or aluminum, fiberglass grating does not conduct electricity. Its electrically-non-conductive properties make it a safer material for power stations or other environments where wiring systems or high voltage lines are nearby. Its non-conductive nature ensures that electrical currents do not travel through the material and injure workers or damage equipment.
View our case study on non-conductive FRP in a power plant here.
5. The Cost Savings of Fiberglass Grating Solutions
Compared to other construction materials, such as metal, concrete, or steel, fiberglass grating is often more cost-effective due to its lower weight and ease of installation. This makes it a preferred option for budget-conscious engineers. Plus, it reduces or even eliminates the need for any heavy maintenance like sandblasting, scraping, and painting. With the selection of the right combination of resin, reinforcement, and manufacturing quality, FRP can have a much longer lifespan than other materials, increasing the ROI over the lifecycle of the structure.
Making Fiberglass Grating a Part of Your Infrastructure
FRP manufacturers offer fiberglass grating products that are an excellent choice for engineers looking for an affordable yet durable solution for their projects. Its low maintenance requirements make it ideal for outdoor applications while its high strength-to-weight ratio provides superior support without adding unnecessary weight to structures. Moreover, its thermal resistance and non-conductivity make it an excellent choice in areas with low or high temperatures or around live current systems. All these factors combined make fiberglass grating one of the most sought-after building materials in the engineering industry today!
Did you know?
Fibergrate fiberglass gratings offer even more benefits than described above. Click below to learn more!
