Molded Fiberglass Grating is the product of choice where corrosion resistance is paramount and high impact resistance is important. When compared to steel, this product is very lightweight and can be made with a grit surface for enhanced slip resistance.
Note: Square molded fiberglass gratings are offered in a smooth, meniscus or grit surface. Square molded fiberglass gratings "with grit" have a higher level of grit content for increased durability and abrasion.
Molded Grating: Features
· Corrosion resistant
· 1/3 weight of steel
· Skid resistant
· Fire retardant available
· High impact resistance
· Long service life
· Low thermal conductivity
· Bi-directional strength
· Non-conductive
The strength and corrosion resistance of fiberglass grating is determined by the Resin-to-Glass Ratio. The resin component of fiberglass grating provides the corrosion resistance; the glass component provides the grating's strength. Molded fiberglass grating has a higher resin-to-glass ratio than Pultruded Fiberglass Grating, which makes it more corrosion resistant.
The continuous interwoven glass strand construction of molded grating offers a strong bi-directional load capacity. Molded gratings with high resin contents tend to retain a higher percentage of original stiffness over long exposure times. Molded Fiberglass Grating is composed of approximately 65% resin and 35% continuous fiberglass strand for optimum corrosion resistance.
The degree of corrosion resistance for fiberglass is superior to stainless steel, aluminum and galvanized gratings. Molded Fiberglass Grating is low maintenance and will never rust or need to be painted. The non-porous compound found in molded grating helps to eliminate bacterial breeding areas in food applications.
Molded Grating: Surfaces (Standard vs. Grit)
Molded Fiberglass Gratings are offered in a concave (meniscus-shaped), grit surface and on some products a smooth surface is an option. The grit surfaces are offered in three types:
· Extra Coarse - Suitable for oily or greasy environments
· Regular - Suitable for most applications
· Fine - Minimal slip resistance
Molded Fiberglass that is ordered with an "Integral Grit" surface offers more slip resistance and durability than the grit types listed above. Integral grit is 3/16 inch deep compared to a the above grit surfaces, which are approximately 1/16 inch deep. Click here for more on Integral molded fiberglass grating.
Molded Grating: Fabrication Features
The unique molded construction allows the grating panels to be easily cut and modified to fit almost any requirement. In areas that require special cuts or areas to be field cut and fabricated, molded grating offers great versatility and will often eliminate the need for additional support for cut edges. When cutting Molded grating, affected areas should have surfaces sealed with catalyzed resin sealant to avoid wicking.