What Is FRP and When Should I Use It?

Fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) grating is an industrial flooring used in a wide range of industries. It is typically found on sidewalks and elevated platforms.

FRP grating is extremely durable, non-corrosive and non-conductive, which often makes it a safer alternative to other flooring materials that are traditionally used in harsh and high-risk environments.

In this article, we'll learn how FRP grating is made, some of the benefits of using it, and where you might find it commonly found.

How is FRP grating made?

FRP grating is made from a combination of fiberglass and resin. The fiberglass gives the finished product its strength, while the resin makes it resistant to corrosive substances.

What is the difference between molded and pultruded FRP grating?

Molded FRP grating is a grid consisting of horizontal and vertical layers of liquid resin and continuous fiberglass roving. As the name implies, it is made from large metal molds.

The multi-directional strength of molded FRP grating means that no additional reinforcement is required to make room for ductwork or to navigate cutouts for complex floor layouts. Another advantage of molded FRP is that it is available in standard sizes and can be ordered in bulk and stored until needed.

Pultruded FRP grating uses a different manufacturing process. It takes resin and fiberglass and combines them in a series of steps to form a new composite material.

It does not use molds, so there is greater flexibility in creating different shapes and sizes. And there is usually less waste. Pultruded FRP grating has a higher glass-to-resin ratio, increasing its strength and span capacity.

Where is FRP grating used?

FRP grating is often found in hazardous or harsh environments where it may be exposed to the elements or come into contact with dangerous and corrosive chemicals. The following are some examples of situations where FRP grating is used.

1. On ships and offshore installations: The rugged nature of FRP grating makes it ideal for ships and oil rigs or other offshore installations. It can be exposed to wind, rain and extreme temperatures, or submerged in water. It is also lightweight and relatively easy to transport.

2. Use of flammable materials: FRP grating does not emit any sparks, so it is often seen as a safer alternative to steel or other metals around flammable materials. For example, dropping a metal object on it will not produce sparks that could cause the atmospheric gases around it to ignite.

In electrically hazardous environments: FRP grating is often used in electrically hazardous environments because it is non-conductive. Therefore, it reduces the risk of electrocution or other injuries in the event of an accident involving electricity.

4. In chemical plants: FRP grating is non-corrosive. This makes it ideal for walkways, platforms and other surfaces in chemical plants where there is a risk of leakage or spillage of corrosive materials.

5. On complex construction sites: The ease of transporting, storing and cutting FRP grating makes it a flexible and cost effective solution for on-site work. Construction companies are able to use standard cutting tools to make FRP grating suitable for complex and mobile site layouts.

Other uses for FRP grating include

● Bridges

● Commercial grade walkways

● Drainage covers

● General commercial flooring

● Trench covers

● Docks

● Ladders

● Machinery enclosures

● Decks and elevated walkways

● Pool decks

● Ramps

● Screens and shields

● Steps and stairs

● Track crossings

● Wash bays

What are the benefits of FRP grating?

FRP grating has many benefits, some of which we described in the previous section. The following are the main reasons for choosing it over metal and other grating alternatives.

1. Durable: FRP grating can withstand harsh environments for long periods of time without damage or degradation. It is low-maintenance and easy to clean. And the molded color means it doesn't need to be repainted.

Fire resistant: Although the exact fire rating depends on the individual product, in general, FRP grating has a high level of heat and fire resistance.

3. Flexible: Easily cut to fit specific floor layouts and can be adjusted as layouts change, reducing waste and saving additional costs.

4. Lightweight: FRP grating is easier to transport and store than other grating alternatives, reducing costs and avoiding project downtime and delays.

5. Non-conductive: It is non-conductive, making it safer in electrically hazardous environments.