Using FRP in High-Intensity Environments like WTPs and WTTPs

Harsh chemicals, water (clean and dirty), constant use, slippery surfaces, potential impact. Is fiberglass reinforced plastic able to withstand the rigors of industrial environments?

Let's look at the water and wastewater treatment plants as an example.

Municipalities have historically used grating, stair treads, railing, ladders and structural platforms made from traditional materials (steel, galvanized steel, aluminum and wood).

Why? These materials are widely available and often have a tempting up front cost. However, they have a less than stellar track record for safety and length of service.

What about corrosion resistant FRP products? When fiberglass reinforced plastic was first developed, it was simply too expensive for most areas of a municipal water treatment plant. This specialized product was usually reserved for deployment in the most corrosive environments.

Today, pricing for FRP is much more in line with other materials (especially with the steep rise in price for steel and other commodities). With cost no longer the determining factor, decision makers such as engineers in WTP and WWTP plants have the option to choose more robust materials.

See why FRP won out over steel for this wastewater treatment facility.

What Makes FRP Good for Water Treatment Environments?

Over time, FRP has proven to provide products that offer superior benefits over traditional materials in environments that demand performance:

1. FRP products have a history of lasting much longer in wet applications than traditional materials.
2. FRP products require little or no maintenance to maintain their safety and performance.
3. FRP products do not rust or rot and maintain a better appearance over traditional materials.
4. FRP products are corrosion resistant and can withstand many kinds of chemicals.
5. FRP products?can be manufactured with a slip-resistant surface for worker safety.
6. FRP products can be cut to size using traditional wood working saws with abrasive blades making it possible to easily fabricate and install in the field.

Those are only a handful of the dozen benefits of FRP in water and wastewater treatment plants.

And the number of product types and applications is much broader than you think.

Are you an engineer who wants to learn more? Register for our free live event with Barry Copeland and earn CEU credits.

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