What is FRP?

Time of Release : 2024-04-02

Wood rots. Steel rusts. Aluminum dents. Fiberglass reinforced plastic lasts.

 

Traditional building materials have their place. But for harsh, corrosive environments, fiberglass reinforced polymer (FRP) is a smart choice.

Structural fiberglass has the strength of steel at a fraction of the weight. It won’t corrode, rot, attract insect damage or conduct electricity. It can be formed into countless FRP profiles to fit your specs. And decades later when those other materials need to be replaced, it will still have plenty of life.

In short, fiberglass pultrusions give you a different way to solve your design challenges — one that can reduce costs and improve performance in the long run. To maximize these benefits, however, it’s best to design with the properties of fiberglass reinforced plastic in mind from the start. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions About FRP Grating

 

What is FRP grating?

FRP grating is fiberglass reinforced plastic molded or pultruded into a framework that allows for ventilation and drainage while providing a strong, lightweight, slip-resistant surface for foot and some vehicle traffic.

What is pultruded grating?

Pultruded grating is a strong, lightweight, slip-resistant surface made of FRP (fiberglass reinforced plastic) that is suitable for pedestrian and some vehicular loads that provides ventilation and drainage. The parallel or crossed bars are made of pulled fiberglass reinforcement saturated with a resin and formed into the grating.

How do you cut FRP grating?

Use standard tools equipped with diamond-coated blades to cut FRP grating. Adequately support the material and use light, evenly applied pressure while slowly cutting for the best results.

What is grating in construction?

In construction, grating is used as a strong, lightweight, slip-resistant surface for foot and some vehicle traffic that provides ventilation and drainage. Applications include pedestrian bridges, catwalks, decks, floors, platforms, and stair treads.

 

Why use FRP grating?

 

FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) grating, also known as fiberglass grating, is a type of structural grating made from reinforced fiberglass. It is used in various applications across industries such as manufacturing, construction, chemical processing, marine, and transportation. Here's why it's commonly used and some of its key features:

  1. Corrosion Resistance: One of the primary reasons for using FRP grating is its exceptional resistance to corrosion. Unlike traditional materials like steel or wood, fiberglass does not corrode when exposed to harsh chemicals, saltwater, or extreme weather conditions. This makes FRP grating ideal for outdoor or corrosive environments.

  2. Strength and Durability: Despite being lightweight, FRP grating is incredibly strong and durable. The fiberglass reinforcement provides high strength-to-weight ratio, making it capable of withstanding heavy loads without deforming or breaking. It's also resistant to impacts and does not rust or rot like metal or wood.

  3. Lightweight: FRP grating is significantly lighter than steel grating, which makes it easier to handle and install. This lightweight property also reduces transportation costs and labor requirements during installation.

  4. Non-Conductive: Fiberglass is non-conductive, meaning it doesn't conduct electricity or heat. This makes FRP grating an excellent choice for applications where electrical conductivity is a concern, such as in electrical substations or where there is a risk of electric shock.

  5. Slip Resistance: Many FRP grating products feature slip-resistant surfaces, providing added safety in wet or slippery conditions. This makes it suitable for use in areas where traction is important, such as walkways, platforms, or industrial flooring.

  6. Low Maintenance: FRP grating requires minimal maintenance compared to traditional materials. It does not need to be painted, sealed, or treated like wood or metal grating. Routine cleaning with soap and water is usually sufficient to keep it in good condition.

  7. Customization: FRP grating is available in various colors, sizes, and configurations to suit different application requirements. It can be fabricated into panels or molded into specific shapes to fit unique project needs.

Overall, FRP grating offers a versatile and cost-effective solution for a wide range of industrial and commercial applications, providing durability, safety, and longevity in challenging environments.