Phenolic Grating vs. FRP Grating: What's the Difference?
When safety, durability, and performance are non-negotiable, the material you specify makes all the difference. At McNICHOLS, we offer both Phenolic Grating and FRP (fiberglass-reinforced plastic) Grating, two high-performance, non-metallic solutions built for demanding industrial environments.
Though they may look alike, their performance varies significantly—especially in marine, offshore, transit, and chemical processing applications. In this blog, we break down the key differences between Phenolic and FRP Grating to help you select the right product for your next safety-critical project.
What is Phenolic Grating?
Phenolic Grating is a type of Fiberglass Grating that is made with phenolic resin instead of traditional polyester or vinyl ester resins.
Phenolic resin provides superior fire resistance, low smoke emission, and excellent mechanical strength, making it ideal for environments where minimizing flame spread and toxic smoke is critical.
Key Benefits of Phenolic Grating:
- Meets U.S. Coast Guard and IMO Standards
- Low smoke and flame spread ratings (ASTM E-84, D635)
- Corrosion resistant in harsh environments
- High load-bearing capacity in lightweight panels
Common Applications:
- Offshore oil rigs and platforms
- Maritime walkways and ship decks
- Transit systems and tunnels
- Petrochemical plants
- Military and naval installations
What is FRP Grating?
FRP Grating—short for Fiberglass-Reinforced Plastic Grating—is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant solution typically manufactured with polyester or vinyl ester resins.
It’s widely used in chemical processing, wastewater treatment, and food facilities due to its durability and resistance to harsh environments. However, while FRP Grating performs well in many applications, it does not meet the same fire safety standards as Phenolic Grating.
Key Benefits of FRP Grating:
- Corrosion resistance in chemical-heavy environments
- Cost-efficient when compared to Phenolic Grating
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Non-conductive and non-magnetic
Common Applications:
- Food and beverage plants
- Water and wastewater facilities
- Pulp and paper mills
- Cooling towers and platforms
- General manufacturing environments
Phenolic vs. FRP Grating: Performance Comparison
To support material selection, we’ve conducted a side-by-side comparison of Phenolic and FRP Grating across critical performance metrics, including fire resistance ratings and typical applications. This reference chart outlines each material’s strengths to assist in specifying the most suitable option for your operational demands and regulatory compliance.
When to Choose Phenolic Over FRP Grating
Your project’s performance and safety requirements will determine whether Phenolic or FRP Grating is the better fit. Both options offer corrosion resistance and structural strength, but Phenolic Grating excels in environments where fire safety, smoke control, and regulatory compliance are critical.
See below for the key scenarios where Phenolic Grating is the preferred option:
- Compliance with USCG, IMO, or ASTM fire testing standards
- Occupied areas where smoke generation and toxicity are critical
- Offshore or maritime structures subject to saltwater exposure and combustible hazards
- Transit systems, tunnels, and public infrastructure
- Facilities requiring non-metallic and fire-resistant flooring
Opt for FRP Grating when you need corrosion resistance and an economical solution for general industrial applications without strict fire safety demands.
Final Thoughts - Matching Material to Mission
Every project has its own set of unique requirements. While both Phenolic and FRP Grating provide non-metallic, corrosion-resistant solutions, only Phenolic Grating delivers the superior fire safety and low-smoke performance essential for high-risk environments.
At McNICHOLS, we are here to help you make informed decisions with confidence. Whether your next project is offshore, underground, or within a high-traffic facility, our knowledgeable team is ready to assist you in specifying the best grating material—delivering the service, speed, and support you expect.
Pultruded Fiberglass Grating, Phenolic
ITEM F1616125 - MS-I-6015, SPH Phenolic Resin, Brown Orange, 1.500" Height x 0.600" Top Flange Width I-Bar, Medium Grit Surface, 60% Open Area
McNICHOLS is the leading supplier of Specialty Metals, including Molded Fiberglass Gratings, in the U.S. and has 19 locations nationwide. We are ready and Inspired to Serve® you at 855.318.8791, [email protected], or via Live Chat on mcnichols.com.