Strongwell produces more than 100 different FRP grating series to meet a variety of customer needs. Applicable to both DURAGRID® pultruded and DURAGRATE® molded grating, the following advice will help select the most appropriate grating series for an application.
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Find FRP grating design criteria in the project specifications under Section 06 74 13 &#;Fiberglass Reinforced Gratings&#;. If unavailable, refer to ASCE 7-16, Table 4.3-1 for minimum live loads. Allowable deflection for FRP grating is usually limited to ¼" (6 mm) for pedestrian comfort. Larger deflections may be permissible for heavy, temporary loads. Deflection greater than ½" (12 mm) is not advisable due to prying action on hold down clips and potential loosening of fasteners. Long panels utilizing multispan conditions reduce panel deflection.Compare design loads to the grating Safe Load and you will find high Factors of Safety. Serviceability (not strength) generally controls FRP design.
Bearing bar height and/or spacing may determine grating series selection. Issues such as existing supports, ADA compliance, high heels, dropped objects, drainage, sunlight penetration, ventilation, and even vehicular traffic could be a requirement for a particular installation. With all these situations to consider, DURAGRID® I-1", I-1.5" and T-2" remain the most
common pultruded series selected. DURAGRATE® 1.5" thick x 1.5" square mesh is the most common molded grating series.
Generally, polyester is suitable for most conditions;vinyl ester for harsh chemical exposure and additional corrosion protection; phenolic where fire / smoke /toxicity are of primary concern.
Most Strongwell load tables are based upon polyester resin (PE) since vinyl ester (VE) resin has only slightly greater mechanical properties. Phenolic grating does have unique properties and separate load tables. As a visual indicator for grating resin, Strongwell cross rods are a light gray color for PE and black for VE. Refer to the Strongwell Corrosion Resistance Guide for specific chemical environments and select the appropriate resin.
With your initial grating selection chosen, review load tables to determine the maximum span to meet load(s) and allowable deflection. Compare this to plan dimensions and determine support configuration. Selecting a taller bar allows longer grating spans and reduces the frequency of beams. This increases the load on each support beam, but fewer slightly larger beams is often more economical than additional smaller beams. If the beam spacing is considerably more/less than the maximum span, review load tables to see if other grating meets the design criteria.
A variety of bearing bar colors, surface grit and topcoat treatments are available for FRP grating. Yellow and light gray are standard bar colors. Fine grit is suitable for bare feet; standard medium grit for industrial uses; or coarse grit, if lubricants or debris collection are expected. A urethane top coat adds greater UV protection or custom colors.
Interested in learning more? Read our in-depth article comparing the use cases and performance properties of molded vs. pultruded fibgerglass grating.
With many geometric, material, assembly, and finishing options, FRP grating is able to meet the needs of nearly any application. Contact a member of the Strongwell team today with any questions about our FRP solutions.
Choosing the right fiberglass floor grating supplier is crucial for ensuring the safety, durability, and overall performance of your flooring system. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding the best suppliers, from understanding the types of grating available to evaluating supplier quality and negotiating contracts.
What is Fiberglass Floor Grating?Fiberglass floor grating is a type of reinforced plastic grating that offers excellent strength and durability. It is made from glass fiber reinforced polymer (FRP), which provides a non-corrosive, lightweight, and robust alternative to traditional metal grating.
Types of Fiberglass Floor GratingMolded Fiberglass GratingMolded fiberglass grating is created by molding resin and fiberglass in a mold. It offers a high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent resistance to chemicals.
Pultruded Fiberglass GratingPultruded grating is made by pulling continuous fiberglass strands through a resin, forming a strong and stiff grating. It is ideal for applications requiring high load-bearing capacity.
Applications of Fiberglass Floor GratingFiberglass floor grating is used across various industries and applications:
Fiberglass grating is known for its long lifespan and resistance to harsh environmental conditions.
Corrosion ResistanceIt is impervious to chemicals and moisture, making it suitable for corrosive environments.
SafetyFiberglass grating provides a non-slip surface, reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing workplace safety.
Key Considerations When Choosing a SupplierChoosing the right supplier involves several key considerations to ensure you get high-quality, reliable products.
Evaluating Supplier QualityCertificationsLook for suppliers that have relevant certifications, such as ISO certification, to ensure they meet industry standards.
Standards ComplianceEnsure the supplier complies with all relevant industry standards, such as OSHA regulations, to guarantee the safety and quality of the grating.
Experience and Expertise of SuppliersIndustry ExperienceA supplier with extensive experience in the fiberglass grating industry is more likely to provide high-quality products and reliable services, such as Unicomposite.
Technical ExpertiseAssess the supplier&#;s technical expertise, including their ability to offer custom solutions and support complex projects.
Customer Service and SupportPre-Sales SupportGood suppliers provide comprehensive pre-sales support, helping you select the right product for your needs.
After-Sales ServiceEnsure the supplier offers robust after-sales service, including installation support and maintenance advice.
Pricing and Budget ConsiderationsCost vs. ValueWhile price is important, consider the overall value, including the durability and lifespan of the grating.
Long-Term SavingsInvesting in high-quality grating can lead to long-term savings due to reduced maintenance and replacement costs.
Supplier Reputation and ReviewsFor more information, please visit Shengfei.
Online ReviewsCheck online reviews and ratings to gauge the reputation of the supplier.
TestimonialsRequest testimonials from the supplier to get insights into their reliability and product quality.
Supplier Location and AvailabilityLocal vs. International SuppliersConsider whether a local or international supplier is more suitable for your needs, taking into account factors like lead time and shipping costs.
Customization OptionsCustom SizesSome suppliers offer custom sizes to fit specific project requirements.
Colors and DesignsCustomization options may include different colors and designs to match aesthetic preferences.
Lead Time and DeliveryProduction TimeEvaluate the production time required by the supplier to ensure it aligns with your project timeline.
Shipping OptionsConsider the shipping options available and the associated costs to ensure timely delivery.
Comparing Multiple SuppliersSide-by-Side ComparisonCreate a comparison chart to evaluate multiple suppliers based on key criteria like quality, cost, and service.
Pros and ConsList the pros and cons of each supplier to make an informed decision.
Supplier Case StudiesSuccess StoriesReview case studies of successful projects completed by the supplier to assess their capabilities.
Industry ApplicationsLook at specific industry applications to understand how the supplier&#;s products perform in real-world scenarios.
Supplier Certifications and StandardsISO ComplianceEnsure the supplier is ISO compliant to guarantee quality management.
OSHA ComplianceCheck for OSHA compliance to ensure the products meet safety standards.
Sustainability and Environmental ConsiderationsEco-Friendly PracticesEvaluate the supplier&#;s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly manufacturing practices.
Material SourcingConsider the environmental impact of the materials used in the grating.
Innovations in Fiberglass Floor GratingNew TechnologiesStay informed about new technologies and innovations in fiberglass grating that can enhance performance and durability.
Product ImprovementsLook for suppliers that continually improve their products through innovation and research.
FAQsWhat is fiberglass floor grating used for? Fiberglass floor grating is used in various applications, including industrial facilities, commercial buildings, and residential areas, for its durability and non-corrosive properties.
How do I choose the right fiberglass grating supplier? Consider factors like quality, experience, customer service, pricing, and reviews when selecting a supplier.
What are the benefits of fiberglass floor grating? Benefits include durability, corrosion resistance, safety, and low maintenance.
Can fiberglass grating be customized? Yes, many suppliers offer customization options for size, color, and design to meet specific project needs.
What certifications should a good supplier have? Look for suppliers with ISO certification and compliance with industry standards like OSHA.
How important is the supplier&#;s location? The supplier&#;s location can affect lead time and shipping costs, so consider whether a local or international supplier is more suitable for your needs.
ConclusionChoosing the right fiberglass floor grating supplier involves careful evaluation of various factors, from quality and experience to customer service and pricing. By following this guide, you can make an informed decision and find a supplier that meets your needs and ensures the success of your project.
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