4 Benefits of Using Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic
FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) is a polymer that’s made from plastic mold and reinforced by glass fibers. It’s a light and extremely strong alternative to conventional glass and plastic.
It holds a central place in a construction industry that’s expected to be worth around 1 trillion US dollars in 2020, and is increasingly used in construction.
It has revolutionized a wide array of industries—from aerospace to automotive, and marine. Its strength is also comparable to carbon fibers, which is why FBR can be found in ballistic armor.
Here’s a breakdown of the perks of using FRP products:
Corrosion Resistance
One of the primary reasons for using FRPs is their corrosion resistance—a function of the resin content and the type of resin used. This makes the use of FRPs an economically acceptable and long-lasting solution. Consequently, the need for long-term maintenance is mitigated, helping organizations save on material costs and labor down the line.
Bridges and platforms constructed from reinforced concrete or wood fall apart after around 20 years, requiring new investments and expensive repairs. FRP, however, won’t experience corrosion like other construction materials and is built to last!
Weight advantages
FRP is known to have a low weight-to-strength ratio. In fact, for the same strength, FRP is about one-seventh the weight of steel and approximately half of aluminum’s. FRP’s lightweight properties are ideal for pipes and tanks owing to its comparatively low cost and ease of installation. This material is also less labor intensive, especially in scenarios where equipment is mounted on existing structures, for example, scrubbers on rooftops or mezzanines and FRP tank trailers.
Using lighter construction materials helps you save on labor costs and makes it easier for workers during installation and removal processes. FRPs place less stress on the infrastructure—meaning the structure will experience less wear and tear in the long run.
High Strength
The high strength of FRPs plays a major role in applications like pultruded shapes, missiles , etc. The material has increased flexural strength in comparison to timber, which is the reason why FRPs are used in filament wound pipes and ducts.
Increased flexibility
Owing to the flexibility of Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic, it is used in a wide variety of applications that require temporary or permanent molds. You can mold equipment into various configurations like elbows, circular or rectangular transitions, flanges or tee inlets all at minimal tooling cost. FRPs are also widely used to line existing structures.
Looking for industrial FRP solutions?
With 42 years of experience under our belt, we have evolved into a leading company that specializes in Industrial Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic services. Hudson Fiberglass is a one-stop shop for all types of custom fiberglass repair in Florida. We also offer fiberglass tank inspection and installations. Contact us for more information about our services.
