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When correctly specified and installed, Glass Reinforced Polymer is a cost-effective and durable flooring and walkway material. GRP Grating (also known as fibreglass grating) is available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses to suit almost any application, but if you’re an architect, engineer, project manager or designer who’s new to the world of GRP flooring, how do you know which product to specify for your particular project?

Understanding loads and spans

Many different factors influence how a product responds to loading and it is important to realise that the way you select and use a material will dictate its cost and performance. In terms of GRP flooring, determining the correct load rating is dependent on the intended use and types of equipment weights placed on it. A Point Load is any static load considered to act over a small or concentrated area when compared to the extent of the surface to which the load is applied. A Uniformly Distributed Load or UDL is one where the load is considered evenly distributed across a defined area.

The Span is the term given to the length of a component that extends (or ‘spans’) between two supports. If you’ve measured your spans and you have an idea of the load you need your flooring to carry and whether it’s a point load or UDL then you can easily find the right product for your needs. What’s important is making sure your chosen manufacturer has taken the time to conduct the right in-depth testing using the right methodology to allow you to make accurate data-driven decisions.

Unlocking the Power of Composites

Using Dura Composites free online product selector tool for GRP grating for example, users can choose their preferred product surface type (standard mesh, mini mesh or covered) and then crucially, can input data relating to their project to narrow down their choice of product. The selections include the clear span dimension, the type of load (Point Load or Uniformly Distributed Load), the maximum load requirement, the allowable deflection criteria (measured as a proportion of the span i.e. L/200 or 0.5%) and also the fire rating required. These filters ensure that the resulting product selections meet the needs of the project specification. If you’d like to try to tool out for yourself, simply visit duracomposites.com.au/powerofcomposites