Molded Fiberglass Grating Manufacturing Process & Selection

Manufacturing Process

Liquid resin and continuous fiberglass rovings are systematically laid in a mold, layer after layer manually, to produce the desired thickness and panel dimensions. The finished molds are set aside for a predetermined time to allow the panel to cure. The panel is then ejected from the mold. The molds are cleaned and prepared for the process to begin again.

The one piece interwoven mesh construction of molded fiberglass grating produces a product with optimal corrosion resistance and bi-directional strength. Since the fiberglass grating is "cast" in one piece, there is no mechanical joint between bearing bars, unlike pultruded grating where the glued joints can give way in heavy continuous traffic or after prolonged service.

The high percentage of resin (65%) in molded fiberglass grating offers superior corrosion resistance and optimal impact resistance. Molded fiberglass gratings with a square mesh pattern offer increased load capacity and panel utilization due to its bi-directional trait.

Numerous cut-outs for piping, valve access, and column penetrations can be made without the need for additional structural framing. Being of one-piece construction, the fiberglass grating performs as a plate, distributing loads throughout the fiberglass grating section and around cut-outs. Cutting access holes in the molded fiberglass grating does not weaken the panel and does not generally require additional or costly supports.

Advantages of Molded Fiberglass Grating:

  • Optimum Corrosion Resistance
  • Bidirectional Strength
  • High Impact Resistance
  • UV Resistance
  • Cutouts Require No Additional Support