When constructing a cable management system, one must use
FRP instrumentation products instead of the traditional ones because the former
can provide maximum protection even in adverse environmental conditions. The
FRP product is gaining in importance in these days as it is having wide range
of benefits and has wide range of applications. FRP is slowly replacing steel,
wood, aluminium and other metals in industrial sectors.
There are a large number of manufacturers out there, who are
yet sceptical regarding fibreglass composites and believe that steel is the
ideal material when it comes to designing cable trays and ladders. While we
cannot really deny the advantages of steel, research has effectually shown
fibreglass to be a better option. In the following write-up, I have chalked
down a detailed comparison between FRP and steel. Please do buy some time and
take a close look at the below-mentioned pointers.
Weight
Steel is known for being extremely heavy and hence the products made out of it could not be transported or installed easily. On the other hand, it is due to the light-weighted nature of FRP for which it has become an ideal construction material. A fibreglass cable tray could be transported from one place to another and installed anywhere practically without effort.
Strength
Steel is an exceptionally strong material and some very durable products could be made out of it. FRP is also noticed for its high tensile strengths and enduring capabilities. It could withstand extreme pressure and heavy loads as well as harsh weather. FRP would be able to retain its original shape and would not break or deform even when subjected to severe conditions.
Fabrication
Fibreglass is known for being extremely flexible when it comes to fabrication. It could be moulded into varied shapes and sizes and the entire procedure could be carried out with simple carpentry tools like the diamond tip or carbon blades. There is no need for using welding or torches. On the other hand, steel is a rigid material and one needs to use special equipment for manufacturing structures out of it.
Corrosion
This is by far the most important aspect due to which FRP is preferred over steel. The latter has a tendency to corrode when subjected to moist conditions. Well, this is not the case with fibreglass. An FRP cable ladder owing to its anti-corrosive properties could be used in all settings. In addition, it is also not affected by heat, fire, rot or insect infestation.
Maintenance
The structures made out of steel need regular maintenance and not doing so would reduce their service life. You have to clean the items, polish and paint them so that they can last longer. Well, FRP made products are extremely durable and could retain their brand-new lustre even with zero or no maintenance.
Besides these, the FRP structures are affordable and they
are easy to install as compared to the traditional counterparts. FRP profiles
are available in various customized forms that make it a unique option. As they
are resistant to corrosion and does not get affected by temperature, it lasts long
for years without minimum maintenance.
The aforementioned pointers are some substantial reasons for
which FRP cable instrumentation is more in demand. All the items made out of
this composite starting from fibreglass beams to sections and grating has manifold
applications in the industrial and commercial sectors.
