10 Advantages of using GRP Grating Panels

04 Nov.,2024

 

10 Advantages of using GRP Grating Panels

10 Advantages of GRP Grating Panels

GRP (Glass-Reinforced-Plastic) Grating Panels are a superior alternative to traditional steel grating systems.

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In this article, we take a deep-dive into ten key advantages of using a fibreglass grp grating panels, compared to traditional metal grating alternatives. 

This is particuarly recommended for projects which require a low-maintenance, lightweight and highly durable grating panel system. 

Background - History of the Innovation of GRP Grating Panels

GRP Grating Panels are also known as Fibreglass Grating Panels, or FRP (Fibreglass Reinforced Panels).

GRP Grating is manufactured within a stringent process that involves laying continuous glass fibers into a set mold and adding a resin within the mould that is then placed under heat and pressure to cure.

The manufacturing process of the materials provides a product with exceptional strength and load bearing characteristics, whilst the durability and longevity of the material surpasses expectations set by traditonal materials. 

It was not until the s that the first GRP Grating Panels were produced. The specification and design was derivied in response for the need of a lightweight, corrosion-resistant flooring for industrial applications.

Since then, the technology and manufacturing processes used to produce GRP grating have continued to evolve, leading to improved product quality, efficiency, and durability.

The latest developments ensures that GRP Grating should be widely considered for use for commercial and industrial walkways.

10 Advantages of GRP Grating Panels

1. Lightweight Grating Panels - High Strength to Weight Ratio with a 50% Weight Reduction compared to steel.

GRP Grating Panels are roughly 50% lighter than traditional steel grating panels. This is useful to reduce transport costs and amount of trips to fufill the volume of panels required on site, not to mention the practicality during installation, especially in areas with access restrictions. 

2. Corrision Resistance - Highly Resistant to Chemicals & Corrosive Agents.

Unlike traditional metal gratings, which can rust and deteriorate over time, the fibreglass grating panels maintain their structural integrity and appearance for decades.

This is particuarly advantageous in areas of industrial operations, where chemcials and corrosive substances may be present. 

3. Extremely Strong Panels with Load Bearing Characteristics.

GRP grating has a high strength-to-weight ratio, which means it can support heavy loads while still being lightweight. This is particularly useful in industrial and construction applications where heavy equipment needs to be supported.

The load bearing characteristics of the GRP Flooring Panels ensure the structure can span a suitable distance without being fully supported, which is ideal for gantaries. 

 4. Low Maintenance - Minimal on-going maintenance requirements.

It is not just corrosion resistance which GRP (Glass-Reinforced-Plastic) Materials have strong resistance towards. The novel material has a strong resilience to UV rays and can function appropriately in the toughest of weather conditions. 

With a high performance in all weather conditions, as well as it's resistance to chemical and corrosive environments, the surface will not rust or rot, so will not require replacing, recoating or refinishing for years to come. 

On occasion, the grating panels can be cleaned with a mop and hot soapy water, with no requirement for specialist cleaning apparatus.

5. Enhanced Non-Slip Surface Finish - Improving slip resistance underfoot for pedestrians. 

In our testing whilst writing this article, the enhanced non-slip surface finish which provides slip resistance underfoot for pedestrians has been extensively slip tested to BS.2 pendulum slip testing standards.

The sample piece was tested both in wet and dry conditions, in which the panel scored an impressive 78 in the dry, and 68 in the wet, which is almost twice the mimimum requirement for a risk to a pedestrian of a slip being at-least 1 in 1 million! 

This officially classifies the material as an enhanced non-slip surface and proves the capabilities of the anti-slip gritted surface finish providing adequate protection to prevent the risks of slips, trips and falls which is particuarly important in hazaradous areas.

6. Extensive range of Profiles & Specifications to suit various applications and uses.  

GRP Grating Panels are designed in various profiles, sizes and forms to suit a variety of uses. 

These include the five most common profiles:

  • Open-Mesh Grating. Most Common - commonly featuring 38mm x 38mm square profiles.

  • Solid-Top Grating. Featuring a Solid Walkway Surface with no open apertures. 

  • Mini-Mesh Grating. Featuring Smaller open profiles to conform to ball proofing requirements.

  • Micro-Mesh Grating. Featuring Minimal open profiles to conform to ball proofing requirements yet allow for drainage. 

  • Pultruded Grating. Featuring a continuous profile length with open voids either side, rather than a square aperture.  

The versatile nature of the product range provides a vast range of panel sizes which can be simply cut prior to delivery, or fabricated on-site with ease to suit.

GRP Grating Panels are commonly specified as mm x mm, but can be anywhere up to mm (6 metres) in length.

The modular design ensures the panels can be joined to the substrate and connected together using GRP Grating M-Clips & C-Clips to create a continuous walkway. 

Grating Panels can also be provided in virtually any colour, with common stock colours being yellow, black, green and light grey which are specified dependent on area, application and intended purpose. 

In summary, GRP Grating Panels offer a complete choice for the client which is easily fabricated to meet exact requirements, with the exact purpose and convience of the specific project installation being prioritsed in the supply of the materials, rather than a one-fits all product that is difficult to tailor to the intended application. 

7. Fire Resistance.

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GRP products have a relatively strong resistance to fire compared to steel grating panels, when the chosen specification has been tested and formulated to meet specific applicable fire safety standards, such as the ASTM E84 standard for flame spread and smoke development.

GRP grating can be formulated to meet specific fire safety standards, it is important to carefully consider the fire safety requirements of the intended application and to choose the appropriate type of GRP grating material accordingly.

In general, the use of halogen-free, flame-retardant resins significantly improve the fire resistance of the use of flooring materials in high risk areas.

8. Non Conductive Properties. 

Unlike metallic materials, such as steel or aluminium, GRP grating is an excellent electrical insulator, which makes it a safe and suitable choice for use in a range of industrial and commercial applications where electrical conductivity could pose a risk.

The GRP panels act as a highly effective electric, magnetic and thermal insulator as the product is not affected by electric currents, magnetic fields or radio frequency waves.

9. Non Sparking Properties. 

GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) grating has the additional benefit of being non-sparking, which can be important in industrial environments where there is a risk of explosions or fires caused by sparks. This can help to reduce the risk of accidental ignition and improve overall safety in these environments.
A Non-Sparking Grating Panel is a safer choice for use in environments where there is a risk of explosions or fires caused by sparks. This can include industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical, and mining.
Non-sparking grating may be required in environments where regulations or safety standards mandate the use of non-sparking materials. This may include compliance with regulations such as the ATEX directive, which regulates equipment used in explosive atmospheres.

10. Buy Online for Excellent Value & Fast Nationwide Delivery.

GRP Grating Panels are in-stock and available to purchase at Non Slip Shop LTD (www.nonslipshop.co.uk). 

Our team are on hand to provide accurate quotations and estimates for your own project. Contact our team today via on , or 327 757.

For further information, please view our GRP Grating Panels product range.
 

 

 

 

 

Top 5 Benefits Of Using Fiberglass Grating

Fiberglass grating is an increasingly popular material used by engineers. It has a wide range of applications from walkways to safety handrails and is known for its durability, heat resistance, and low maintenance. In this blog post, we&#;re going to explore the top five benefits of using fiberglass grating in engineering projects. 

1. Fiberglass Grating Requires Little Effort to Maintain

Fiberglass grating is a low-maintenance material that can be easily cleaned with water and soap or diluted detergent. This makes it ideal for indoor applications such as meat packing facilities where food safety is paramount and for outdoor applications where the accumulation of dirt and dust is inevitable. Unlike other materials such as wood or metal, fiberglass gratings will not rot or corrode over time with exposure to the weather. It will continue to maintain structural integrity even when exposed to elements like salt water.

2. High Strength-to-Weight Ratio Compared to Traditional Materials

FRP is up to 70% lighter than steel while still providing excellent strength. This makes it perfect for areas where weight is a limiting factor but strength is a requirement. With fiberglass grating, engineers can create structures that are strong yet lightweight. Handling material that does not require heavy lifting also reduces the cost of labor (and transportation).

Check out this drop test video showing the durability of a fiberglass grate versus a steel grate...

3. Fiberglass Grating has Very Good Thermal Resistance Properties

Fiberglass grating has excellent thermal resistance properties, providing a safer alternative to steel in environments where thermal conductivity would pose a risk. This makes it an optimal choice for industrial settings where temperatures may reach high levels on a regular basis. The material also has proven fire resistance properties, making it safer than other materials in the event of a fire emergency. Look for fiberglass grating that adheres to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) technical standards, including:

  • A flame spread of 25 or less as tested in accordance with ASTM E-84

  • Meets the self-extinguishing requirements of ASTM D-635

4. This Non-Conductive Material Makes Your Work Environment Safer

Unlike steel or aluminum, fiberglass grating does not conduct electricity. Its electrically-non-conductive properties make it a safer material for power stations or other environments where wiring systems or high voltage lines are nearby. Its non-conductive nature ensures that electrical currents do not travel through the material and injure workers or damage equipment. 

View our case study on non-conductive FRP in a power plant here.

5. The Cost Savings of Fiberglass Grating Solutions

Compared to other construction materials, such as metal, concrete, or steel, fiberglass grating is often more cost-effective due to its lower weight and ease of installation. This makes it a preferred option for budget-conscious engineers. Plus, it reduces or even eliminates the need for any heavy maintenance like sandblasting, scraping, and painting. With the selection of the right combination of resin, reinforcement, and manufacturing quality, FRP can have a much longer lifespan than other materials, increasing the ROI over the lifecycle of the structure.

Making Fiberglass Grating a Part of Your Infrastructure

FRP manufacturers offer fiberglass grating products that are an excellent choice for engineers looking for an affordable yet durable solution for their projects. Its low maintenance requirements make it ideal for outdoor applications while its high strength-to-weight ratio provides superior support without adding unnecessary weight to structures. Moreover, its thermal resistance and non-conductivity make it an excellent choice in areas with low or high temperatures or around live current systems. All these factors combined make fiberglass grating one of the most sought-after building materials in the engineering industry today! 

Did you know? 

Fibergrate fiberglass gratings offer even more benefits than described above. Click below to learn more!

 

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Custom Fiberglass deck grating Company. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.