The Advantages of GRP

 

When considered alongside more traditional forms of building material, there are many advantages to using glass reinforced plastic (GRP).

Our in-depth guide – What is GRP? – discusses the properties of GRP and how it is manufactured. In this guide, we will outline why the combination of advantages that GRP possesses, make it such a versatile and durable building material.

Advantages of GRP: main properties

The physical properties and engineering characteristics of GRP are what make it such a unique proposition as a construction product. Here are the main benefits of GRP:

• Light in weight: Compared to traditional building materials, such as steel or concrete, GRP is low weight. It is only 25% the density of steel and 67% the weight of aluminium.  This makes it easier to transport and to position on site, often by hand.  Good design means that this reduction in load on an existing structure potentially yields great weight savings for the completed project.

 

• Easy fabrication: Working with GRP profiles is quick and similar in principle to wood.   Once the structure as been correctly designed and engineered, assembly can be rapid and much easier to undertake in remote locations.  GRP profiles make for easy handling with the light sections and no heavy equipment or welding gear is needed.

 

• Load bearing: GRP has a very high strength to weight ratio. Despite its low weight, it has a high load bearing capacity, commonly with an elastic modulus of 28,000 MPa.

 

• Low maintenance: When correctly specified and installed, GRP requires very little or no maintenance. It does not rust, mould or decay, even in the most demanding environments.

 

• Durable: GRP is a tough material and has very good impact resistance. It can withstand a wide range of temperatures from extreme heat to arctic cold. Because of this, it is highly suited to outdoor use and especially in industrial environments. GRP can even be produced to be flame retardant for additional safety.

 

• Chemical resistance: GRP is non-corroding and resistant to common industrial chemicals. The resin type of the GRP material can also be specified to suit the most extreme environments that it will be used in. See the exact specifications of all our GRP products for more information on chemical resistance.

 

• Low electrical conductivity: Unlike steel and other metals, GRP is electrically non-conductive. This makes it a great solution for workplaces where an electrical supply may accidentally contact with a structure. They also reduce or eliminate the problems associated with earthing.  Typical surface resistance of GRP is in the order of between 10¹⁰-10¹³

 

• Radar and radio wave transparent: GRP will not block or impede radar or radio signals. This can be essential in industries that use these technologies for their everyday working.

 

• Thermally insulating & warm to the touch: Unlike steel or other metals used in construction, GRP has a much lower thermal conductivity & heat distribution gradient and will consequently help in insulating against heat loss. Practical examples would include, a handrail made from GRP will feel warm to the touch and be more comfortable to hold, especially on cold, icy days. It is possible to manufacture pultruded profiles from fibreglass which can be used in highly energy efficient roof lights, windows and facades.

 

• Nil scrap value: Unlike metals, GRP has no scrap value and is therefore unattractive to thieves. This means it is safer for installation in exterior applications such as on isolated railway or utilities infrastructure. There is very little likelihood that a GRP structure will be stolen.

 

• Environmentally sustainable: GRP pultrusion production is carried out by an extremely energy efficient process. This means that the building of a bridge structure in traditional materials is likely to embody twice the amount of energy compared to a bridge using fibreglass profiles. The durability of finished profiles reduces maintenance commitments over the lifespan of a structure and the use of coatings & paints.  At the present time, end of life or scrap GRP products can be reused, with the ground materials utilised in cement production.  Looking to the future, current research projects aim to see that GRP will be able to be broken down into its constituent parts and made into new products.

 

• Anti-slip: GRP constructions for safe access can be finished with an anti-slip surface or covering. This enhances the durability of the wearing surfaces and greatly reduces the likelihood of accidents from slips, trips and falls.

How does GRP compare to other building materials?

There are many advantages to GRP when compared to other building materials, especially when it comes to safe access.

GRP vs Steel

GRP is an effective electrical insulator and so does not conduct electricity. This makes it invaluable as a building material where potential accidents around high voltage installations could occur. Unlike steel & iron, GRP does not rust.  This lack of corrosion also means that a GRP access structure will maintain its structural integrity to give a much longer service and be able to withstand harsh weather conditions throughout its life.

GRP feels warm to the touch, which makes it highly suited for handrail applications, especially ones intended for public use.

 

GRP vs Wood

Wood can be a great and versatile building material but is heavy and expensive. One major drawback of wood is that even when treated, it will rot and degrade over a relatively short period of time. Wood can quickly become home to boring insects, moss and mould.  Wood is porous and expands and contracts with seasonal humidity, moisture and heat. This puts stress on the wood fibres in the structure and will cause wear and tear.

Eventually, even the most expertly crafted wooden structures will crack and weaken, needing replacement.

Who is Evergrip?

Evergrip both stocks and manufactures a large range of GRP products in the UK. Our expertise is in products for safe access and support, including structures and anti-slip surfacing solutions.

Get in touch to discuss your project with our team. We have over 20 years’ experience manufacturing and installing GRP products, and have the knowledge and insight needed to help you complete your project.