Posts

national grating frp grating marina dock deck

National Grating FRP Solutions Application Profile – FRP Molded Grating Marina Decking

molded frp grating marina decking
Here Molded FRP Grating with 1.5″ x 1.5″ holes on center was used. National Grating also supplies 2″ and 1″ as well as Mini Mesh Molded Grating that has a ¾” grid pattern with ½” open squares.

Project

110 FT of National Grating FRP Molded Grating Marina decking installed in a Pacific Ocean Marina.

A marina on the Pacific Coast of British Columbia required 110ft of dock to be replaced.  The contractor decided to contact National Grating to explore FRP Solutions.  They decided on Grey Molded FRP Grating with 1.5” gaps to replace the decking section of this dock.

National Grating FRP Solution

Grey Molded FRP Grating with 1.5” x 1.5” gaps with gritted top coating for added slip resistance in wet environment.


Why was Molded FRP Grating Chosen?

Molded FRP Grating from National Grating was perfect for this application because of its anti-corrosion properties, durability, strength and lightweight nature, and its ability to let sun and water pass through the grating.

Corrosion Resistance

FRP grating is highly resistant to corrosion, making it durable in harsh marine environments.

Anti-Slip Properties

The concave and anti-slip grit surface provides excellent anti-slip properties, ensuring safety for pedestrians, even in wet conditions.

Durability and Longevity

FRP grating is highly durable, resistant to saltwater, UV rays, and corrosion, making it ideal for marine environments.

Strength and Durability

FRP grating is engineered to withstand heavy loads making it ideal for docks and marinas. FRP Grating has a high strength to weight ratio allowing for a strong structure that is also lightweight.  While comparable in strength, FRP grating is significantly lighter than steel, making it easier to install without heavy lifting equipment.

Open Area

The open area of Molded FRP Grating is an important factor in environmental sustainability, allowing sun to pass through to plants, seagrass, and other shallow marine habitats beneath the decking surface. 

During storms the open area also allows wind and water to pass through lessening the stress on the dock structure and mounting hardware.


molded frp grating mini mesh dock marina
Mini Mesh was used here for a gangway leading to a boat launch in this popular location.

National Grating Dock and Marina FRP Solutions

Molded FRP Grating

Common sheet sizes for Molded FRP grating include: 4’x8′, 4’x12′, and 3’x10′. Common thicknesses include: 1″, 1.5″ and 2″.

Pultruded FRP Grating

Fiberglass Grating pultrusion’s come in three categories: I-Shape bars, T-Shape bars, and High-Load bars for heavy duty applications. The bearing bars are interconnected with cross-rods every 6 inches. 

Mini Mesh FRP Grating

Mini-Mesh fiberglass grating has a ¾” grid pattern with ½” open squares. This results in 44% open area which allows light and water to pass through and provides a very comfortable decking surface to walk on in bare feet.

Stair Treads and Covers

pultruded frp grating marina stairs
Pultruded FRP Stair Treads were used here for a safe and anti corrosive solution to enter and exit the lake at this private dock.

Fiberglass stair treads are available as molded FRP treads with yellow nosings and a gritted surface, for the ultimate in safety.

Fiberglass stairs are the best solution for outdoor anti-slip stairs. They outlast traditional building materials and are easy to install. Stair treads made of FRP grating are lightweight, easy to fabricate, and highly durable.


National Grating Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Solutions:


National Grating Newsletter

Every month we send our National Grating family a quick update on exciting new things that are happening with us.  We touch on exciting new projects, new products and interesting new applications of our products.  Welcome to the family!

Newsletter Signup

National Grating Customer Service

National Grating prides itself on providing exceptional customer service to all customers, big and small.

Reach out to us today for your next FRP Project!

Sales@NationalGrating.com / 1-844-599-0260

eco benefits of national grating frp

Eco Benefits and Sustainability of FRP Grating

Molded FRP Grating ramp dock
Molded FRP Grating was used in this Marine application as it will not rust or corrode with sea water exposure.

Green energy and decarbonization policies aim to reduce emissions and transition to more efficient use of our energy. One area that can contribute to this goal is using environmentally friendly materials and technologies in the construction and maintenance of infrastructure. One such material is fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) grating, which has several benefits over traditional steel grating.


FRP has a Low Carbon Footprint

Mini Mesh FRP Grating Dock Cottage
FRP Grating does not corrode due to water exposure or fade due to intense sun exposure. It truly is the perfect material for your dock or deck.

FRP grating has a much lower carbon footprint compared to steel grating. Steel is an energy intensive material that requires a lot of energy to manufacture, transport, and install. In contrast, FRP grating is made from a combination of lightweight and durable materials such as fiberglass and resin. As a result, the production and use of FRP grating can significantly reduce carbon emissions.

FRP is Lightweight

FRP grating is much lighter than steel grating, which means it requires less energy to transport and install. This can result in significant energy savings, especially in cases where large quantities of grating need to be transported and installed over long distances.

FRP does not Corrode

Furthermore, FRP grating is corrosion-resistant and requires less maintenance compared to steel grating. This means that it has a longer lifespan, reducing the need for replacement and therefore further reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption and can be re-used, re-purposed and re-cycled.


Eco Benefits & Sustainability FRP Grating

Mini Mesh FRP Grating Boat Dock
FRP Mini Mesh Grating will last and not corrode due to salt water exposure.

In conclusion, the use of FRP grating in infrastructure projects can have significant sustainability benefits for reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption. By choosing FRP grating over traditional steel grating, governments and businesses can contribute to their green energy and decarbonization goals while still maintaining the high-quality and durable infrastructure that is necessary for economic growth and development.


National Grating Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Solutions:

FRP Stair Treads Cottage
FRP Stair treads are lightweight and will outlast the wooden structure.


National Grating Customer Service

Pultruded FRP Grating Shipyard
Pultruded FRP Grating was used in this Shipyard because of its lightweight and strength compared to the previous wooden decking.

National Grating prides itself on providing exceptional customer service to all customers, big and small.

Reach out to us today for your next FRP Project!

Sales@NationalGrating.com / 1-844-599-0260

frp grating is better than steel

Is Fiberglass Reinforced FRP Grating better than Steel Grating?

frp grating is better than steel grating
Rusty metal grating is unsafe and unsightly. At National Grating we believe FRP Grating is far superior!

At National Grating we believe Fiberglass Reinforced FRP Grating is far superior than steel grating. 

For decades National Grating has been providing FRP Solutions in the form of Molded, Pultruded, Mini Mesh and High Load Capacity Grating and FRP Structural Shapes like C-Channel, I-Beams, Tubing and Stair Treads to customers across North America. 

Our years of experience in this industry provide the in-depth technical knowledge required to select the FRP material that meets the needs of your project.

We are continually improving our line of fiberglass products with the latest innovations to provide our customers with the most cost-effective, high quality FRP solutions.  We also take pride in superior technical support, giving you the information you need to confidently make the right choice.

Here is why we believe FRP Grating and FRP Solutions are far better than steel grating alternatives.

Strength:

Fiberglass grating offers comparable strength to steel but with added benefits like improved impact resistance and flexibility.

While comparable in strength, FRP grating is significantly lighter than steel, making it easier to install without heavy lifting equipment.

Corrosion Resistance:

FRP grating excels in corrosive environments as it does not rust or corrode like steel, making it ideal for use around chemicals or outdoor elements corrosive to steel.

Safety:

Fiberglass grating is non-conductive, providing safety benefits in electrically hazardous workplaces. It also offers slip resistance and is softer underfoot compared to steel, reducing worker fatigue.

Cost:

While the production cost of FRP grating is higher than steel, the long-term maintenance-free aspect of FRP can make it a more cost-effective choice over time.  Steel grating requires ongoing maintenance and replacement costs.

frp grating is better than steel grating
These outdoor entrance stairs were rusty and worn out looking. Newly installed FRP Stair Treads improved the first impressions for the business, and added safety for their clientele.

Long Life Span:

FRP does not rust or rot and does not degrade due to sun exposure, moisture and humidity, or extreme heat and cold. 

Maintenance Free:

FRP grating requires little-to-no maintenance costs post-installation, unlike steel grating that may need regular maintenance.

FRP Grating has optional colors that are added during the molding process which instills the entire product with a consistent color that does not wear out or rub off. Unlike steel grating that is painted that can wear off over time requiring maintenance.

The advantages of FRP grating over steel include its strength, lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, non-conductivity, safety features, and cost-effectiveness in the long run.


National Grating Customer Service

National Grating prides itself on providing exceptional customer service to all customers, big and small.

Reach out to us today for your next FRP Project!

Sales@NationalGrating.com / 1-844-599-0260


frp grating is better than steel grating
High Load Capacity FRP Grating was used in this car wash facility to upgrade the metal grating that was bent and worn out due to heavy vehicle traffic.

National Grating Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Grating Solutions:

frp grating car wash

Fiberglass FRP Grating for Car Washes and Vehicle Maintenance Facilities

yellow molded frp car wash
Here yellow Molded FRP Grating was used to cover a drainage trough for water reclamation.

Fiberglass FRP Grating is the perfect solution for Car Wash and Vehicle Maintenance facilities like mechanics and oil changers.  

National Grating is a leading supplier of FRP solutions for car wash and vehicle maintenance facilities across North America.

FRP Grating uses in Car Wash facilities

Fiberglass FRP Solutions are used in Car Wash facilities primarily as grating for water drainage and in Mechanics for Oils, coolant, and other liquid drainage.  The molded or pultruded FRP grating is often used to span a drainage ditch to allow liquids to flow into a drainage system while providing a strong and safe surface for vehicles and customers.   For heavy loads High Load Capacity (HLC) or Heavy-Duty FRP Grating is used that can support vehicle weights.

Other FRP applications in vehicle maintenance facilities include grating for walkways, FRP Stair Treads for nonslip stairs, FRP plate for a solid nonslip surface on platforms or walking surfaces and FRP Railing for noncorrosive hand railings.

  • Wash Bays
  • Troughs
  • Drainage Systems
  • Trenches
  • Walkways
  • Grating
  • Platforms
  • Nonslip stairs
  • Railing
mini mesh frp grating car wash
Mini Mesh FRP Grating was used here to allow water and cleaning agents to drain through the entire floor while creating a safe walking area.

National Grating FRP Solutions for Car Washes:

  • Molded & Pultruded Grating
    • Drainage trenches, flooring, platforms, walkways.
    • FRP grating is utilized in car washes for its drainage capabilities, safety features, aesthetic appeal, ease of maintenance, and chemical resistance, making it a versatile and practical solution for flooring and drainage needs in these facilities.
  • Heavy Duty Grating
    • Engineered to carry heavy traffic like cars, trucks & forklifts.
    • Heavy Duty HLC (High Load Capacity) FRP grating is used in car washes due to its strength, durability, corrosion resistance, low maintenance requirements, safety features, and ease of installation, making it an ideal choice for areas with heavy vehicle traffic like those found in car wash facilities.
Heavy Duty FRP Fiberglass grating
Heavy Duty or High Load Capacity FRP Grating is used to cover areas with heavy traffic. It’s engineered to carry heavy traffic like trucks and forklifts. 
  • FRP Stair Treads and Covers
    • Slip-resistant & durable stair solutions.
    • FRP stair treads are utilized in car washes for their non-slip properties, corrosion resistance, durability, and ease of maintenance, making them a practical and safe choice for stairs within these facilities.
  • FRP Plate
    • Resistant to soap, chemicals & water.
    • FRP plates are utilized in car washes due to their corrosion resistance, durability, ease of maintenance, and safety features, making them a suitable choice for various applications within these facilities.

Why FRP Grating is perfect for Car Washes:

Durability: FRP grating is commonly used in car wash drains due to its corrosion resistance, durability, and ability to handle heavy traffic and exposure to water and chemicals without deteriorating or requiring frequent replacements.

FRP plate car wash national grating
FRP Plate is a solid sheet of fiberglass reinforced plastic with an nonslip top walking surface.

Corrosion Resistance: FRP materials are resistant to corrosion from water and cleaning chemicals commonly used in car wash operations, ensuring longevity even in harsh environments.

Chemical Resistant: FRP grating is resistant to chemicals commonly used in car wash operations, making it a suitable choice for areas exposed to cleaning agents and detergents without deteriorating or losing its structural integrity.

Non-slip: The non-slip properties of FRP grating make it a safe flooring option for car wash facilities, providing traction even when wet and reducing the risk of slips and falls for both customers and staff.

Strength and Durability: HLC grating is engineered to withstand heavy vehicle traffic, including forklifts and large trucks, making it ideal for areas with high loads like car wash facilities. It is extremely durable and can handle corrosive environments without rusting, ensuring a long-lasting solution.

grey mini mesh grating car wash
Grey Mini mesh FRP Grating was used in this off road vehicle cleaning bay because it is strong enough to carry the vehicles weight while also allowing water and soap to drain through.

Safety and Performance: The high strength-to-weight ratio of HLC grating makes it easy to handle and install, providing a safe and stable flooring solution for car wash areas with heavy traffic. Its non-conductive properties also enhance safety in these environments.

Easy Maintenance: FRP Grating is easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal effort to keep it looking new and ensuring a hygienic environment.

FRP grating is utilized in car washes for its drainage capabilities, safety features, aesthetic appeal, ease of maintenance, and chemical resistance, making it a versatile and practical solution for flooring and drainage needs in these facilities.

National Grating Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Grating Solutions:

Heavy duty high load capacity frp grating
Heavy Duty HLC Grating was used in this Mechanic Shop to span a drainage ditch where bent and unsafe metal grating was used before.

National Grating Customer Service

National Grating prides itself on providing exceptional customer service to all customers, big and small.

Reach out to us today for your next FRP Project!

Sales@NationalGrating.com / 1-844-599-0260

Pultruded FRP Grating: The Ideal Solution for Canadian Marine Dry Docks and Rail Yards

National Grating has been seeing high levels of interest in Pultruded FRP Grating for applications such as Marine Dry Docks across Canada, North America and even as far north as Alaska due to its winter advantages

T-5000 Pultruded FRP Grating in yellow was used to replace the previous material
T-5000 Pultruded FRP Grating in yellow was used to replace the previous material.

This Marine Towing Drydock operating in the Great Lakes has found the perfect solution for its demanding environment with the implementation of Pultruded T-5000 FRP Grating from National Grating. This innovative grating, engineered from fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP), offers a comprehensive set of advantages that address the specific needs of the rail yard, ensuring enhanced performance and durability.

A picture before T-5000 Pultruded FRP yellow grating was installed

Corrosion Resistance and Longevity
Pultruded FRP Grating is designed to withstand the harshest environments, making it an ideal choice for the Marine Towing Drydock Rail Yard. Its superior corrosion resistance, surpassing traditional materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, and galvanized gratings, ensures longevity and minimizes maintenance requirements.

Heavy-Duty Performance
Engineered to carry higher loads, Pultruded T-5000 Grating delivers exceptional strength and stiffness, making it well-suited for the rigorous demands of the rail yard. Its heavy-duty design provides the necessary support for various operational activities, contributing to a reliable and robust infrastructure.

Safety and Efficiency
The safety surface of Pultruded T-5000 Grating, featuring a coarse epoxy grit, enhances worker safety, even in challenging conditions. This prioritization of safety aligns with the dry docks commitment to maintaining a secure working environment for its personnel.

Low Maintenance and Cost-Effectiveness
The implementation of Pultruded T-5000 Grating offers the  Marine Towing Drydock Rail Yard a low-maintenance solution, reducing the need for frequent repairs and upkeep. Furthermore, its cost-effectiveness and long-term performance make it a valuable investment for the rail yard’s operational infrastructure.

Yellow Pultruded FRP Grating was chosen for this Alaskan application due to its long lifespan, non slip surface, light weight, resistance snow buildup.

Pultruded Grating stands as the optimal choice for a Marine Drydock, providing a durable, high-performance solution that addresses the specific requirements of the environment. Its corrosion resistance, heavy-duty performance, safety features, and cost-effectiveness make it an indispensable asset for the rail yard’s ongoing success and operational efficiency.

Pultruded FRP Grating in other Industries:

Pultruded FRP grating is commonly used in various industries due to its superior strength, corrosion resistance, cold weather advantages and durability. Some potential industries where Pultruded T-5000 grating may be successfully implemented include:

  1. Marine and Offshore: Due to its corrosion resistance and durability, Pultruded FRP grating is suitable for marine and offshore applications, such as shipyards, docks, and offshore platforms.
  2. Industrial Manufacturing: Industries requiring heavy-duty flooring and grating solutions, such as manufacturing plants, chemical processing facilities, and industrial warehouses, can benefit from the high-strength and low-maintenance characteristics of Pultruded FRP grating.
  3. Transportation: The transportation sector, including railway facilities and infrastructure, can utilize Pultruded FRP grating for its durability and resistance to environmental factors.
  4. Construction and Infrastructure: In construction and infrastructure projects, Pultruded FRP grating can be used for walkways, platforms, and structural applications due to its high strength and corrosion resistance.

Characteristics of Pultruded FRP grating make it a versatile solution for a wide range of industries that require durable, corrosion-resistant, and high-strength grating products.

Yellow and Grey Pultruded FRP Grating compliments each other perfectly and presents an elevated level of safety due to high color contrast.
Installation of Pultruded FRP Grating is fast and easy due to its lightweight nature.

Why choose Pultruded FRP Grating?

Pultruded FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) grating is often chosen over molded FRP grating or steel grating for industrial applications due to several key differences in their characteristics and performance. Here are the main reasons for choosing pultruded FRP grating:

Strength and Stiffness: Pultruded grating has a higher fiberglass concentration, making it stronger and stiffer than molded grating. This characteristic makes it suitable for applications requiring higher load-bearing capacity and longer spans.

Corrosion Resistance: Pultruded grating offers excellent corrosion resistance, making it ideal for harsh industrial environments where exposure to chemicals, moisture, and corrosive elements is a concern.

Heavy-Duty Applications: Due to its superior strength and load-bearing capabilities, pultruded grating is well-suited for heavy-duty industrial applications, such as manufacturing plants, chemical processing facilities, and offshore platforms.

Customization and Versatility: Pultruded grating can be customized to meet specific project requirements, offering versatility in panel sizes, resin systems, and other design features to accommodate various industrial applications.

Fire Retardant Properties: Some pultruded grating products are manufactured with fire retardant properties, making them suitable for applications where fire safety is a concern.

Pultruded FRP grating is preferred over molded grating for industrial applications due to its higher strength, stiffness, corrosion resistance, suitability for heavy-duty use, and the ability to be customized to meet specific project requirements.

Pultruded FRP VS Steel and Wood Grating

Pultruded FRP Grating was chosen in this application due to the deterioration of the wood and its fasteners.

Pultruded FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) grating is often chosen over steel grating for industrial applications due to several key advantages. Here are the main reasons for choosing pultruded FRP grating over steel grating:

  1. Corrosion Resistance: Pultruded FRP grating offers superior corrosion resistance compared to steel grating, making it ideal for corrosive environments, including chemical processing, marine, and industrial settings.
  1. Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Pultruded FRP grating provides high strength with a lower weight compared to steel, offering easier installation and reduced structural support requirements.
  1. Low Maintenance: FRP grating requires minimal maintenance and is resistant to chemicals, making it an attractive choice for industrial applications where exposure to water, chemicals, and cleaning agents is common.
  1. Safety Surface: The walking surface of pultruded grating often has a coarse epoxy grit bonded to the bearing bars, providing a safe surface for workers, even in wet conditions.
  1. Customization and Versatility: Pultruded FRP grating can be customized to meet specific project requirements, offering versatility in panel sizes, resin systems, and other design features to accommodate various industrial application.

Pultruded FRP grating is preferred over steel and wood grating for industrial applications due to its superior corrosion resistance, high strength-to-weight ratio, low maintenance requirements, safety features, and customization options. These advantages make it a versatile and cost-effective solution for a wide range of industrial settings.

Other Industries Utilizing Pultruded FRP Grating:

  • chemical processing
  • food & beverage
  • marine
  • aquatic centers
  • oil & gas
  • power
  • manufacturing
  • construction
  • pharmaceutical
  • metals & mining
  • pulp & paper
  • recreation
  • water parks
  • telecommunications
  • shipping centers
  • transportation facilities
  • water & waste treatment