Fiberglass Grating | What is it?
Fiberglass Grating is the contemporary and modern alternative to metal grating, it is not only architecturally more attractive; but is also highly resistant to corrosive environments. Fiberglass reinforced plastic grating, commonly referred to as FRP grating is a composite material, which is manufactured by the combination of a matrix of resin and fiberglass. Fiberglass grating is also fire retardant in nature, along with being non-conductive and light weight, making it a popular grating option for industrial structures and various other usages such as; fire escapes, raised floors, platforms, drain covers, protective shields, stair treads, walkways, docks and trench covers. Commonly used for floor grating, FRP is simpler to install than metal grating, due to its light weight. It does not require heavy machinery for the installation.
Available in both square and grid patterns, fiberglass grating is widely used due to its low maintenance cost combined with unmatched resilience. Unlike metal gratings, which in certain environments can require extended product life cycle; fiberglass grating is corrosion and rust free, making it more cost effective. Chemical attacks are also not an issue with fiberglass gratings, ensuring its durability. Ideal for the corrosive environment, FRP gives it the complete value for the money.
There are primarily two types of fiberglass grating:
1. Molded
2. Pultruded
As the name suggests, molded grating is created on the mold; whereas pultruded grating is created by combining the pultruded profiles in the shape of grating. Molded fiberglass grating is a combination of thermosetting resin with fiberglass roving to create a strong one piece panel.
Molded fiberglass grating is available in various thicknesses, mesh patterns and dimensional sizes. Square mesh patterns enable the cutting of the panels efficiently, to accommodate a variety of floor layouts, while reducing the waste to minimal. Molded fiberglass mesh in rectangular shape is mostly used for trench covers in many industrial designs and is also a preferred grating option for walkways. The optional grit-top walking surfaces of fiberglass grating provide skid-resistance for the safety of the workers as well. The design of fiberglass grating is to ensure its reliability, in the most challenging conditions.
The selection of the resin option also depends upon the purpose of use. For the general purposes Orthophthalic Polyester is more suitable. Some other resin options are Vinyl Ester, Isophthalic Polyester (or ISO), Fire Retardant and USDA certified. All resin options are UV Resistant and are designed for different purposes and conditions.
Available in various colors and styles, such as green, yellow, grey, orange and various other custom colors, fiberglass grating is more appealing in look as well. To ensure the longevity of the product, color is permanently added to the resin formula. The color and style of the grating are decided, while keeping the safety hazards in account. Some of the most prominent industries that use fiberglass gratings are waste water treatment plants, food processing plants, aquariums, power plants, chemical plants, lift stations, plating shops and also plants with canning and beverage facilities.
An excellent alternative to the metal grating system, fiberglass is more cost effective, durable and with plenty of safety benefits, making it a popular choice for general and industrial use.
