Techniques for Cutting GRP: Best Practices, Tools & Safety

Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) has become a ubiquitous material across various industries, valued for its exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and lightweight properties. It is easy to fabricate on site, which means your team should understand the right methods for cutting GRP.

Hand saws can be used for smaller cuts, but they may be time-consuming and may not always produce the cleanest cuts. Circular saws equipped with diamond-tipped blades are often the preferred method for cutting GRP. Diamond-tipped blades provide cleaner cuts with less chipping or fraying. 

When using power tools, always wear appropriate safety equipment, including dust masks, ear protection, and eye protection. Ensure a stable work area and maintain proper balance while operating the saw.

Other cutting methods, such as waterjet cutting and laser cutting, offer precision and can cut complex shapes with ease; however, these advanced methods may be more expensive than traditional methods like circular saws. Waterjet cutting utilises high-pressure water jets to cut through the material while laser cutting employs a focused laser beam. For the vast majority of glass reinforced plastic projects, this level of high-performance equipment simply isn’t necessary.

For more on tools and the cutting process, check out How to Cut Fibreglass Grating: Your Quick Guide.

Safety should always be a top priority when working with glass reinforced plastic. GRP cutting generates dust that can contain fine glass fibres. According to a National Library of Medicine report,  inhaling GRP dust can irritate the respiratory system. Implementing dust control measures such as using dust collection systems or working in well-ventilated areas is important to minimise exposure. 

Fibre release can also occur during cutting. Wearing appropriate respiratory protection, such as an N95 respirator, is a good idea to minimise inhalation of fibres. Minimising fibre release can be achieved by using sharp blades and applying masking tape to the cutting line to contain fibres.

• Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris and sharp edges. Gloves should also be worn to protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
• GRP dust is considered to be flammable as some of the resins used in GRP synthesis are flammable, when used individually. Taking necessary precautions to prevent fires is essential, such as keeping the work area clean and free of combustible materials.

Cutting GRP for On-Site Installation

Fibergrate GRP rooftop applications and railings

Fibergrate designs many of its GRP products with on-site cutting and installation in mind. Fibertred® Moulded Treads, for example, incorporate pre-moulded cutting channels for easy customisation during installation. These channels provide guidance for accurate cuts and ensure clean, consistent results.

Tips for Achieving Clean and Accurate Cuts:

• Use appropriate cutting tools and techniques
• Ensure a stable and secure work surface
• Employ accurate measuring and marking techniques
• Use jigs and templates for repetitive cuts
• Practise and refine your cutting skills for improved efficiency and accuracy

Importance of Sealing Cut Edges of GRP

Sealing the cut edges prevents moisture intrusion, protects against delamination, and enhances chemical resistance. It also creates a smoother, more finished appearance, minimises fibre exposure, and helps protect against UV degradation. Therefore, using an GRP sealing and bonding kit to properly seal cut edges is crucial for maintaining its integrity and performance. 

Refer to Fibergrate's Fabrication Guide for detailed instructions on sealing procedures and recommended sealants.

Cutting GRP the Easy Way: Work With Fibergrate

By following the guidelines outlined in this blog post and implementing the appropriate safety precautions, you can ensure clean, accurate, and safe fabrication.

Contact Fibergrate today to learn more about GRP fabrication techniques or to discuss your specific project requirements.

Want to Keep Reading? 

• How to Cut Fibreglass Grating: Your Quick Guide
• The Making of Fibreglass Reinforced Plastics

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