Benefits of Fibreglass Plates for Industrial Applications

Industrial environments demand a lot from the materials used in their construction. These building materials need to be strong and durable to withstand harsh chemicals and constant use. However, traditional materials like steel, wood, and concrete often fall short, succumbing to corrosion, rot, or cracking. This is where fibreglass plates (including fibreglass deck plates and fibreglass floor plates), emerge as a superior alternative.

Glass reinforced plastic (GRP) plates are made of a composite material fabricated by combining fibreglass strands with a resin matrix. This formulation offers a multitude of benefits that make GRP perfect for a wide range of industrial applications. 

Fibreglass Plates in Food and Beverage Processing

The food and beverage industry has specific requirements focused on hygiene, sanitation, and compliance with strict regulations. GRP plates address these needs by offering:

• Less-Absorbent Surfaces: Their solid surface allows for easy cleaning and sanitation, potentially minimising the risk of bacterial growth.
• Resistance to Food Acids and Chemicals: GRP resists corrosion from food acids and chemicals commonly used in food processing.
• Non-Toxic and FDA-Approved Materials: Many GRP plate options are non-toxic and FDA-approved, ensuring food safety compliance.

These advantages make fibreglass plate a valuable asset in food processing facilities, with applications including:

• Flooring: Easy-to-clean, non-slip flooring promotes a safe and hygienic work environment.
• Wall Panels: Resistant to moisture and chemicals, fibreglass wall panels are ideal for food processing areas.
• Work Surfaces: Durable and non-contaminating surfaces minimise the risk of food contamination.
• Equipment Covers: Fibreglass covers protect equipment from spills and facilitate easy cleaning.

Through these applications, fibreglass plate contribute to increased hygiene, improved sanitation practises, and overall safety in food and beverage processing facilities.

Manufacturing facilities require floors that can handle constant foot traffic, machinery movement, and potential spills. The addition of fibreglass floor plates in your flooring systems can provide a durable and slip resistant solution for:

• Workshops and Assembly Lines: With the support of underlying structures, fibreglass floor plates are robust enough for consistent use without cracking or warping.
• Cleanrooms: GRP plate is easy to clean and maintain, making it a good choice for controlled environments where hygiene is a necessity. 

Beyond flooring, fibreglass plates also find application in:

• Wall Panels: Resistant to chemicals and easy to clean, fibreglass wall panels offer a hygienic and low-maintenance solution for workshop environments.
• Machine Guards and Enclosures: GRP plates offer protection for workers and equipment by providing a durable barrier against flying debris and sparks.

These applications highlight how GRP plates can improve safety, boost efficiency (through reduced maintenance), and contribute to a cleaner work environment within manufacturing facilities.

Marine and offshore environments pose unique challenges due to their harsh saltwater conditions, constant exposure to moisture, and the need for durable materials that can withstand the elements. GRP plates offer exceptional benefits in these industries:

• Decks and Walkways: GRP for docks and decks provide a durable and slip-resistant walking surface, essential for crew safety and equipment operation on ships and offshore platforms.
• Hull Panels and Cargo Ships: Fibreglass can be used in boat hulls due to its lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties. This corrosion resistance is particularly beneficial in marine environments where steel hulls are prone to rusting, especially when carrying cargo like coal and iron ore, which accelerate corrosion of steel as observed by the Australian Maritime Engineering Cooperative Research Centre.
• Equipment Enclosures: Glass reinforced plastic enclosures offer protection for sensitive equipment on board ships and offshore platforms.

Fibreglass Plates in Other Industrial Applications

The versatility of fibreglass plates extends beyond the industries mentioned above. They can be used in a wide range of applications, including:

• Aerospace: GRP plate could be used in aircraft interiors and components due to their lightweight properties and resistance to chemicals and fire.
• Automotive: GRP plates can be used in various automotive components, such as interior panels, battery enclosures, and underbody shields.
• Electronics: GRP offers a durable and insulating material for electronic enclosures and components.
• Data Centres: GRP can be used in raised flooring systems, server racks, access platforms, and more in data centre design due to their durability and fire resistance.
• Water/Wastewater Treatment: GRP plate can be used on top of trench grating and in other areas where a solid surface is required.
  

Fibergrate pultruded grating topped with GRP plate for trenching at a wastewater treatment plant

Fibergrate is a trusted manufacturer of high-quality glass reinforced plastic, offering a wide range of products to meet the diverse needs of industrial applications. With years of experience and expertise in fibreglass technology, Fibergrate is committed to providing innovative and durable solutions.

Fibergrate's fibreglass plates are engineered to meet the highest industry standards, ensuring exceptional performance and longevity. Their products are available in various thicknesses, sizes, and surface finishes, allowing for customisation to suit specific project requirements.

See fibreglass plate in action in the video below...

Fibreglass plates have emerged as a valuable material in industrial applications, offering a superior alternative to traditional materials. Their durability, lightweight properties, safety features, and versatility make them ideal for a wide range of uses, from manufacturing facilities to marine environments.

By choosing Fibergrate, you are investing in high-quality products that will enhance the performance, safety, and efficiency of your industrial operations. Contact Fibergrate today to learn more about our products and how we can assist you in your projects.