When you've decided that Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) grating is the right choice for your corrosion-resistant flooring or platform needs, the next critical step is selecting the correct manufacturing type. The two primary methods are molded and pultruded, each offering distinct advantages for different applications. Understanding the difference is key to optimizing performance, cost, and longevity.
What is Molded FRP Grating?
Molded grating is created by pouring resin into a mold filled with fiberglass strands, then compressed and cured under heat. This process creates a bidirectional grid pattern (square or rectangular mesh) that is consistent in both directions.
Key Advantages of Molded Grating:
Bidirectional Strength: The load-bearing capacity is virtually identical in both the longitudinal and transverse directions, simplifying installation as panel orientation is less critical.
Superior Slip Resistance: The molding process allows for the easy integration of a deeply gritted, abrasive surface, making it the go-to choice for areas where safety is the top priority.
Chemical Resistance: It is typically made with a high percentage of resin on the wearing surfaces, providing an excellent barrier against corrosive substances.
Ideal Applications for Molded Grating:
Industrial walkways with heavy foot traffic
Oil and gas platforms
Food processing plants where hygiene and slip resistance are crucial
Chemical plants where liquid spillage is common
What is Pultruded FRP Grating?
Pultruded grating is manufactured by a continuous process where glass fibers are pulled through a resin bath and then through a heated die to form individual bars. These "I-beam" shaped bars are then assembled into a grid and bonded together.
Key Advantages of Pultruded Grating:
Higher Longitudinal Strength: Pultruded grating is significantly stronger in its longitudinal (span) direction than molded grating, allowing for longer spans between supports.
Lower Initial Cost: The efficient, continuous manufacturing process often makes pultruded grating more cost-effective upfront.
Open Area: It typically has a higher open area percentage (approx. 70-80%), which is beneficial for applications requiring maximum light transmission and air/fluid flow.
Ideal Applications for Pultruded Grating:
Large platform structures with defined support beams
Trenches and drain covers
Ventilation screens and fencing
Environments where light weight and high strength are the primary drivers
Making the Right Choice for Your Needs
Your choice ultimately depends on the specific demands of your project. If your top priorities are all-directional strength and maximum slip resistance in a corrosive environment, molded grating is likely the best fit. If you are working on a large-scale project with long spans and are focused on structural efficiency, pultruded grating may be the ideal solution.