Fiber Reinforced Polymer — usually shortened to FRP, and sometimes called GRP or composite — is rapidly replacing metal across industry. But what exactly is it, and why are engineers switching? Here is a clear buyer's guide.
What is FRP made of?
FRP is a composite of two parts: reinforcing glass fibres that provide strength, set within a polymer resin that binds everything together and provides chemical resistance. By choosing the fibre arrangement and resin system, manufacturers can tune the material for strength, corrosion resistance or fire performance.
How is it manufactured?
Common processes include pultrusion (pulling fibres through resin and a heated die to make continuous profiles like beams and gratings), moulding, filament winding (for tanks and pipes) and hand lay-up (for custom fabrication). The process is matched to the product.
Key properties
- Corrosion-free — immune to rust, chemicals, salt and moisture.
- Lightweight — roughly a quarter of the weight of steel.
- Non-conductive — electrically and thermally insulating.
- High strength-to-weight ratio and good fatigue resistance.
- Low maintenance — no painting or galvanising required.
Why industries are switching
In chemical processing, water treatment, power, mining, coastal and offshore environments, metal corrodes and demands constant upkeep. FRP removes that problem, improves safety and lowers lifetime cost. It also lets engineers build lighter structures that are quicker and cheaper to install.
What to consider when specifying
Think about the chemical exposure (to select the resin), the loads and spans (to size the profile), any fire requirements, and UV exposure for outdoor use. A good FRP partner will engineer the product to your conditions rather than offering a one-size-fits-all part.
SupraFRP, an IndiGrate Composites brand, manufactures a complete family of FRP products — from gratings and profiles to tanks and rebar — each engineered for its application.