What is FRP?
Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) is a composite material manufactured from glassfiber and resins (Polymer Matrix). In a most general sense of the word, resin is a binder and glassfiber is reinforcement which adds strength to the overall composite material. To explain in a simpler way concrete is a composite made of cement which acts as resin and binds the aggregates which contributes to the composites strength.
Why FRP?
- Fiberglass reinforced plastic is strong and most resistive to deforming forces.
- Its strength-to-weight ratio is very high when compared to conventional material.
- It is very light weighed product which reduces installation as well as transportation costs. It also makes it comparatively easier to handle.
- It has got excellent resistance to corrosion and rotting which is a point of concern when metal or wood is used.
- FRP product needs less maintenance and is easily repairable, making it very economical.
- FRP also offers greater design freedom, enabling the creation of complex shapes. This makes FRP the most favored material for structural applications.
- Other features include anti-seismic behavior, electromagnetic neutrality, excellent fatigue behavior and fire resistance.
Applications:
Use of FRP has been continuously increasing in the industry because of its advantages over conventional material. Industries like Wind Energy, Building & Construction, Marine, Aerospace, Automobile, Railways, Chemical, Telecommunication, etc. uses FRP products for various applications.
FRP is used in manufacturing of products requiring precision engineering like blades for wind mills, payload doors in space shuttle, small automotive parts, components for aircraft, body of car, aircraft & boat, chemical process equipment, pipes, etc. At the same time FRP is also used in making of basic products like doors, bath tubs, wall panel, tiles, communication equipment, television antenna satellite receiver, etc.
