Are you in the beginning stages of product development and are feeling unsure about the wide range of composite materials available? Composites can seem complicated and there is a lot of terminologies to get accustomed to when looking into composite fabrication. Although it can be quite technical, we want to help make composite material fabrication approachable and help you better understand the materials you wish to consider for your project.
In this article, we outline the basics of glass reinforced plastic (GRP), often referred to as fibreglass. With more than 40 years of experience in working with composites, we have the skills and experience needed to assist you with your composite manufacturing project. Learn more about GRP below and contact us today to get started with your composite manufacturing project.
What Is GRP?
GRP or glass-reinforced plastic is a composite material that is both lightweight and strong. It is a highly versatile material that can be used in a wide range of applications across various industries including aerospace, construction, and even residential usage. It is more than likely that you have used a GRP product without even knowing it or may have instead referred to it as fibreglass.
What is GRP Made Up Of?
GRP is a composite material made of polymer matrix and glass fibres. The type of polymer used is dependent on the purpose of the finished product but can consist of polymers such as vinyl ester, epoxy, or polyester thermosetting resin. The glass fibres can be incorporated into the composite material in a variety of ways including being placed randomly, woven into glass cloth, or flattened into a sheet.
How Is GRP Made?
Glass reinforced plastic can be manufactured to achieve the desired properties required for the finished product. During the manufacturing process, the chosen polymer and glass fibres are mixed and molded to create the finished product. Through melting, molding and curing the materials the finished glass reinforced plastic product is created.
What Can GRP Be Used For?
There are seemingly endless uses for glass reinforced plastics. Due to its chemical and corrosive resistant properties, it is often used for water pipes or in settings where PVC is not a suitable choice. Fibreglass or glass reinforced plastic is commonly used to make sports equipment such as kayaks and nets but it is also commonly used in the automotive, aerospace and construction industries. Common uses of glass reinforced plastic include the following.
- Surfboards
- Bicycles
- Windows
- Automotive parts
- Airplane parts
- Military equipment
- Docks
When it comes to choosing the right composite material for your project you’ll want to enlist the help of experts. Though GRP is an extremely versatile material, it may or may not be the best option for your specific project. The experts at Spartec Composites Inc. are ready to assist you through every stage of your composite manufacturing process. We look forward to helping you make your project come to life. Contact us today to learn more about GRP or other composite materials and see how we can help make your custom composite manufacturing project happen.
