Fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) is a composite material made of glass fiber reinforcements and a cured resin. This material is used to make fiberglass gratings and structural shapes which can be assembled to make platforms, guardrails, handrails, and many other products. It is a widely used material in industries such as chemical production, wastewater treatment, electrical engineering, transportation, and marine construction. Let’s discuss what you need to know about FRP grating.
The Strength & Durability of FRP Grating
FRP grating is incredibly strong and durable due to its construction from glass fibers embedded within a resin matrix. Its superior strength makes it ideal for heavy-duty applications such as factory floors, stairs, walkways, platforms, and more. Additionally, it is corrosion resistant to harsh chemicals and weather conditions which makes it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. The grates are available in different sizes and configurations, so you can choose the right one for your specific needs.
Molded gratings include:
- Fibergrate® Molded Gratings
- High Load Molded Grating
- Micro-Mesh® Molded Grating
- Ecograte® 62
Pultruded gratings include:
- Safe-T-Span® Pultruded Gratings
- High Load Pultruded Grating
- Aqua Grate® Pultruded Gratings
- Specialty Pultruded Gratings
Cost & Maintenance Benefits of Using Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Grating
Another significant benefit of using FRP grating is that it is cost-effective compared to other types of flooring or structural supports. Its minimal maintenance requirements mean that there are fewer costs associated with keeping it in good condition over time. This includes occasional cleaning with soap and water or an approved cleaner if needed. Repairs or replacements are very rarely required. This makes fiberglass grating an attractive option for anyone looking for an affordable yet reliable solution for their project needs.
FRP Grating and Structural Shapes are Made with Safety & Fire Resistance in Mind
In addition to its cost and maintenance benefits, fiberglass grating is slip-resistant which makes it a safer option when compared to metal gratings or other types of flooring materials that have a lower friction factor, especially in wet or oily environments. It also has excellent fire resistance properties, with some specialty grating withstanding short-term temperature exposures up to 1700°F. This fire resistance makes it suitable for use in areas where there may be a risk of fire or excessive heat exposure such as industrial manufacturing plants, power plants, or offshore oil platforms.
Uses for Fiberglass Grating
FRP grating can be used in a variety of applications from chemical plants to wastewater treatment facilities to swimming pools and more. It is also a great choice for industrial flooring applications because of its strength and durability as well as its slip-resistant surface texture which helps reduce the risk of slips and falls on wet surfaces. FRP grating is also an excellent choice for industrial staircases since its lightweight properties make installation much easier than other types of staircases while still providing an incredibly strong and slip resistant walking surface that will last for a long time.
Some of the industries that benefit from using Fiberglass Grating include:
Construction: Used for flooring, platforms, and stair treads in commercial and industrial buildings.
Chemical Processing: Used in chemical plants and refineries due to its corrosion resistant and slip resistant properties.
Marine: Used in marine environments such as marinas, docks, boat ramps, and piers due to its excellent resistance to saltwater and other marine elements. Different textures and grid configurations have been developed for specific marine applications.
Oil and Gas: Used in offshore platforms and drilling rigs due to its high strength, fire resistance, slip resistance, and durability in harsh environments.
Water and Wastewater Treatment: Used in water and wastewater treatment facilities due to its corrosion resistance and slip resistance. NSF-61-certified materials permit use in drinking water facilities.
Food Processing: Used in food processing facilities due to its corrosion resistant and easy-to-clean properties. USDA/CFIA accepted and anti-microbial formulations provide additional benefits.
Pharmaceuticals: Used in pharmaceutical facilities due to its slip resistance and ability to withstand exposure to harsh chemicals.
Agriculture: Used in agricultural settings for walkways, platforms, and decks in barns, stables, silos, and other agricultural buildings.
Unlock the Benefits of FRP Grating for Your Business
Fiberglass grating offers numerous benefits when compared with traditional metal gratings or other types of flooring materials including superior strength, slip resistance, durability, cost-effectiveness, low maintenance, and excellent fire resistance properties making it an attractive option for plant operators and safety engineers looking for reliable solutions in demanding applications such as factories floors, staircases walkways or platforms among others. If you’re looking for a safe and reliable option that won’t break the bank, then fiberglass grating might be the right solution for you!
