New technologies and innovations are widely used today, including in the construction industry, contributing to the creation of new materials that are significantly different in their higher performance. One of them is fiberglass reinforcement, which can be called one of the strongest and most durable materials. Having appeared not so long ago, it has gained great popularity, becoming an alternative to metal fittings. It consists of a special filler that performs a fastening function and a synthetic polymer material (polyester or epoxy resin).
Advantages of fiberglass reinforcement
The popularity of this material is due to the combination of its positive characteristics. A special polymer binder fiber provides high anti-corrosion, rot and chemical resistance.
Low thermal conductivity avoids freezing of walls and foundations in harsh Russian winters.
Having a specific gravity much lower than that of metal reinforcement, the fiberglass analogue is in no way inferior to it in terms of strength. The combination of these qualities makes the material particularly popular withcreating complex and responsible structures.
High electrical insulating properties eliminate stray currents and allow the use of fittings in structures such as lighting poles, power lines. Fiberglass is a dielectric, so there is no electrical interference, which is very important for buildings that contain high-tech appliances.
Due to the ribbed profile, the reinforcement is firmly and securely attached to concrete, making it possible to successfully complete a wide range of installation work.
It is also beneficial from an economic point of view to use a material such as fiberglass reinforcement. The price for it is democratic (depending on the thickness, it is 11-16 rubles per meter) and allows you to reduce the cost of the structures being built.
Does not require a welding machine or other tools when installing. Instead of welding, various fasteners are used.
Fiberglass reinforcement is convenient for transportation, as it is sold in rods and coils, which can easily fit even in a car.
Flaws
With all its undeniable advantages, this material also has a number of disadvantages. Compared to steel reinforcement, it has a rather low fracture strength. Therefore, it is important that fiberglass reinforcement is used only in those industries that are clearly defined by the manufacturer.
Due to the low modulus of elasticity, the material bends under certain conditions, so when designing floors, it is necessary to carry out additionalsettlements.
Thermal resistance of fiberglass is such that at a temperature of more than 200 degrees its strength is lost, this excludes the use of material for the construction of structures involving high temperature heating.
Scope of application
The use of composite reinforcement is recommended as a reinforcing material in brickwork, in the production of meshes and rods that strengthen the bearing capacity of structures.
It is also convenient for strengthening the roadbed, bridges, for creating enclosing structures, during various restoration and repair work.
In the construction of all kinds of concrete tanks, in sewerage and water treatment systems, in melioration, fiberglass reinforcement is used. Using it in these cases is much more profitable compared to the metal counterpart.
GRP is indispensable in structures subject to corrosion (docks, wharves, etc.)
Production of fiberglass reinforcement
Fiberglass materials are impregnated with polyester resins and drawn through a heated die to form a fiberglass profile.
The latest technology allows you to create products with a variety of profiles. It can be a rod, a pipe, a channel, a plate, etc. The production of fiberglass using this method requires the use of a specialpultrusion machine.
Fiberglass PCT
This is a very flexible roll material. It is made using the same components as fiberglass reinforcement - this is fiberglass and polymer binders. Its main advantages are increased flexibility, resistance to various chemical and thermal effects, water resistance and safety for human he alth.
Scope of application
PCT fiberglass is characterized by high wear resistance combined with low cost. This makes it indispensable as a coating for the heat-insulating layer of pipelines, which are located both indoors and outdoors, when laying underground heating networks. In the production of electrical insulating and roofing materials, it is difficult to do without fiberglass today. When bent, this material does not form cracks, which makes it very convenient to use, and the structures from it acquire an aesthetic appearance.
Fiberglass boats
Fiberglass is a favorite composite material, without which most industries simply cannot do without. It is also effectively used in the manufacture of small boats due to such properties as stability, high anti-corrosion properties, plasticity. Domestic fiberglass boats are in increasing demand today. In their manufacture, a reinforcing mesh is used that prevents the appearance of cracks in the body. Vibration-suppressing material enhances comfortship use.
GRP is in no way inferior to aluminum in performance properties. Therefore, products made from this material are no less durable and reliable. Plus, they're significantly cheaper. Boats made of fiberglass do not rot, corrode, and if their surface is treated with a special paint, this will also eliminate its fouling with algae.
For many years, domestic shipbuilders have been effectively implementing the latest developments of boats and boats using fiberglass. The hull of such a vessel is quite simply repaired. The appearance of small faults can be easily repaired with resin and fiberglass. At the same time, due to the new layers of material, the strength of the hull significantly increases.
The popularity and strength of fiberglass is confirmed by numerous successfully built structures and feedback from builders. The increasing demand for fiberglass products indicates the high efficiency of the use of this material.
