Properties of GRP
Glass-reinforced plastic (GRP), also known as glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP) is a lightweight, extremely strong, and robust material.
These advantages of using GRP over other materials include:
Freedom of Design
The practical uses of GRP are virtually endless and it has literally bought the designers imagination to life. GRP opened many new avenues for creative designers. Its unique physical properties allow it to be easily tooled, molded and manufactured to meet almost any specifications. With GRP there are few constraints on size, shape, color or finish, the styling and appearance can take precedence over manufacturing costs.
Versatility and Affordability
The lightweight strength of GRP makes it a popular choice for manufacturing. GRP reduces weight and requires less maintenance making it highly attractive over more traditional materials like timber, metal or brick.
The flexibility of GRP and the cost effectiveness of its composit materials also make it an extremely affordable solution and an economical alternative. By using GRP industry can manufacture virtually any component or finished product in any quantity.
Strength and Durability
GRP has a high strength to weight ratio and high flexural strength making it an attractive lightweight material that builds strength into almost any finished product or component. Pound for pound GRP can be stronger than steel and sheet metals.
GRP also has high resistance to environmental extremes and requires very little maintenance - no rust, no painting, no wood rot plus GRP is non-corrosive and has a much longer life expectancy when compared to a variety of construction materials.
In highly corrosive environments GRP is the preferred choice over metal, wood, or plastic. GRP provides resistance to ultra violet light, extreme temperatures, salt air, and a variety of chemicals including most acids. As GRP is chemically inert and corrosion-resistant, it offers an economical alternative to stainless steel.
Appearance
GRP products can be manufactured in numerous finishes, textures and colours including brick and stone effect.
With sheet metal, you get a plain box. GRP products have sleek contours and a superior molded appearance.
Dielectric
GRP is non-conductive, RF transparent, and helps to insulate against electromagnetic fields, making GRP the obvious choice for electrical and electronic equipment storage like electrical meter boxes and cabinets.
Acoustic Properties
GRP provides superior acoustical properties when compared to plastic or metal. Various type of sound deadening materials can be laminated between high strength layers of GRP to achieve the preferred level of sound deadening.
GRP parts have excellent dimensional stability and will hold their shapes under severe mechanical and environmental stresses.
View Kingsley Plastics GRP products brochure online!
