Building Bridges: Creating a More Connected World with FRP

In the world of transportation infrastructure, bridges stand out as the most iconic symbol of connection. Whether it’s a simple footbridge over a creek or a mighty road spanning hundreds or thousands of feet, these structures must be able to stand up to whatever traffic and the elements can throw at them.?

What Parts of a Bridge Might Be Made of FRP?

High-quality fiberglass reinforced plastic is suitable for fabricating a wide range of bridge superstructure elements. Examples include:

• Bridge Deck Panels (Boardwalk Style or Open Grating)
• Safety Railings (Guardrails, Handrails, and Panels)
• Architectural Details (Lattice Work or Pedestal Ornamentation)
• Stairs and Ramps (Access to and from the Bridge)
• Walkway Shade Structures?
• Sidewalk or Maintenance Pathways
• Drainage Features

Why Choose FRP for Bridge Building?

There are several reasons that fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) is a popular option for bridge construction and remodeling projects.

Lightweight for Affordable Transportation?

Bridge job sites can be notoriously difficult to access, especially in remote areas. Being able to easily truck in and deploy FRP panels and railing systems without the use of heavy lifting equipment is a substantial benefit. With the constantly rising cost of fuel, the difference between shipping steel vs. shipping FRP is substantial.

Prefabrication for Simple Installation

With the help of the Fibergrate team of experienced FRP structural engineers, full bridge systems from supports to grating or decking and railings can be predesigned and prefabricated. Having the entire structure manufactured in advance to meet precise specifications accelerates the installation process in the field. If adjustments are needed due to unforeseen circumstances or changes, FRP can be easily modified using hand tools on a job site.

Versatility in Aesthetic and Ornamental Elements

Molded and pultruded FRP comes in a variety of colors and gauges for different applications, but it can also be designed in custom shapes and styles for specific architectural use cases. There are few limits on how ornate or decorative fiberglass reinforced plastic can be. Since it doesn’t rot like wood or rust and corrode like metal, these ornamental touches keep a bridge looking aesthetically pleasing long term. As more municipalities are seeking ways to make their city architecture stand out, FRP provides a fresh option for creating a unique look.

Resistance to Corrosion from Water and More

Whether directly submerged in water or exposed to constant moisture in a typical bridge application, FRP is able to withstand the corrosive effects of both fresh and salt water in a way that wood, metal, and concrete do not. This makes it a common choice to replace rusted components during bridge upgrades and in new projects that are built to last.

Cost Efficiency Over the Long Term

Whether building a massive bridge for public transportation or industrial use, or a small bridge for a golf course or theme park, maintenance costs can add up. FRP from Fibergrate has a lifetime maintenance cost substantially lower than other building materials. It stands up well to heavy loads, heat, sun, rain, freezing temperatures, and more. It also requires little more than routine cleaning to remain in excellent condition decade after decade.

Thoughtful Design for Safety and Compliance

• Since bridge decking and grating is used in wet environments, a skid or slip resistant surface option makes sense to limit the risk of vehicles skidding or pedestrians slipping.?
• Properly designed pedestrian bridges feature FRP grating that is ADA compliant for mobility devices users to navigate with ease.?
• Bridges that must carry a heavy load can be equipped with premium heavy duty FRP such as Safe-T-Span High Load Capacity (HI) pultruded grating .?

This example of a bridge repair project highlights the utility of the most robust FRP in the industry.

Want to learn more about how our FRP engineers can help you design your ideal bridge project?