GRP GRATING

GRP, or Glass Reinforced Plastic, is a strong, lightweight, and highly versatile product that is also referred to as fibreglass, composite plastic, or FRP (Fibre-Reinforced Polymer). It behaves differently to conventional thermoplastics and its strong resistance to heat, fire, water, and chemicals makes it suitable for a wide range of applications and industries.

Due to its strength and lightweight qualities, GRP is often used in construction as a substitute for steel, wood, or plastic. From pedestrian anti-slip walkways and areas with high footfall to swimming pools and golf clubs, GRP grating has a multitude of uses.

GRP is a composite material made from plastic which has been reinforced with glass fibres, while steel is an alloy of iron and carbon. Both materials are renowned for their impressive strength, making them ideal for use in construction and other similar industries.

One of the biggest advantages of GRP is that it can be up to 75% lighter in weight than steel. This impressive strength-to-weight ratio makes it easier to transport, work with, and cut when required. Unlike steel, GRP is non-corrosive and offers fire, heat, water, and chemical-resistant qualities so that it maintains performance even in the harshest environments.

GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) is just one specific type of FRP (Fibre-Reinforced Polymer). The key difference is that GRP is manufactured from a combination of glass fibres, plastic, and resin, whereas FRP can be produced using other fibres including carbon and Kevlar.

Essentially, GRP and FRP provide the same qualities, and both are commonly used as inexpensive, high-performing materials in various industries such as construction, engineering, marine, and aerospace. In North America, the material is referred to as FRP, whilst in Europe and Asia it is mostly called GRP.

Many industries use GRP for a variety of applications. It adds strength, durability, and stability to building structures on a domestic or industrial scale. GRP offers a lightweight and cost-effective alternative to traditional materials, such as steel and timber, and can be easily cut to suit the needs of any project.

Due to its resistance to fire, heat, chemicals, water, and corrosion, GRP offers longevity and reliability as a product in construction, forestry, hotels and leisure, transport, marine, aerospace, and many other industries.

One of the most popular uses of GRP is as an anti-slip material for pedestrian walkways which could become wet and slippery. GRP is also used in a diverse range of other applications including:

• Water pipes and drain coverings
• Handrails
• Safety grating in public and industrial areas
• Electronic environments
• Kayaks and other sports equipment
• Helicopter rotor blades
• Wind turbine blades

GRP grating provides a higher fire rating than iron, steel, and other similar materials. While extreme heat can cause iron and steel to lose integrity, GRP grating offers a superior threshold of heat resistance.

The molecular structure of glass-reinforced plastic gives it its fire and heat-resistant qualities. Additives and resins are also incorporated into the manufacturing process to enhance its performance.

GPR fire ratings are placed into categories such as Class 1 and Class 2, where Class 1 delivers the highest level of resistance. Both classifications refer to the surface spread of flame test (BS 476 part 7) and the degree and speed of flame spread on an ignited panel.

GRP grating offers an effective fire-resistant solution for many industries like oil, gas, and construction where fire presents a serious threat. GRP grating is also safe to use in areas where electricity, chemicals and corrosive substances are present.

Further details about the testing procedure and results for GRP can be found in our Fire Resistance Report.

Large sheets of flat glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) are known as GRP panels. They can be used in a wide range of applications for construction, roofing, and other projects and are often found in areas with high foot traffic. Their anti-slip properties also make them an ideal product for use in environments which are prone to becoming wet and slippery like walkways.

GRP panels are available in a variety of colours and finishes, including textured, and can be manufactured to suit the needs of specific projects such as rooftop walkways, bridges, balconies, fascias, soffits, doors, and more. GRP textured panels provide a safe surface to walk on due to their slip resistance so the usual slip hazard associated with wet metal gratings can be avoided.

Our GRP panels are manufactured from fibreglass and resin and then applied with an aluminium oxide coating to produce a structure that conforms to BS 7976-2:2002 standards. GRP panels are extremely strong and lightweight and are ideal for use in water and wet areas, such as boats and swimming pools. GPR panels are also highly resistant to heat, fire, chemicals, and UV light.

Cutting GRP grating is a simple process with the right tools and equipment. GRP grating can be cut the same way as stone or brick, so a chop saw or jigsaw with tungsten carbide or diamond-tipped drill bits or blades are recommended. GRP behaves more like masonry than timber due to its glass content and can therefore be cut into various shapes and angles to guarantee a precise fit.

When cutting, GRP grating panels should be placed face-down and secured with a clamp in order to protect the front from damage. Users should wear personal protection equipment (PPE) such as safety goggles, gloves, earplugs, and a dust-filter mask so harmful particles cannot be inhaled. GRP particles can be irritating to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system, so effective PPE is essential during the cutting process.