COMPRESSION MOLDED

Compression Molding vs
Conventional Molding

Rectangular compression-molded FRP gratings offer the best available combination of strength, long life, and ease of installation. The patented matched-die molding process uses heat and pressure to form high-density grating panels that have higher flexural and impact strength and better chemical and UV resistance than all other molded FRP gratings

The strength of compression-molded grating results from the unique way that reinforcing glass is used in making the grating. Metals, Inc. compression molded grating is molded with continuous strands of woven glass cording, for consistent strength throughout the grating. Because it is compression molded, more reinforcing glass can be used than is possible with conventional open-molded gratings. Metals, Inc. gratings contain up to twice as much fiberglass as ordinary FRP gratings. As a result, compression-molded gratings are up to twice as strong, as can be verified by comparing load/deflection data. This higher strength translates into cost savings through use of thinner, lighter grating and/or through use of fewer support members for a given deflection.

Given proper resin selection, all fiberglass gratings provide acceptable corrosion protection compared to steel. But compression- molding gives an extra measure of corrosion resistance that other FRP gratings don't have. The hydraulic pressure of compression-molding forces glass deep into the resin, creating an extra-dense grating that is less porous than conventional gratings, and therefore, less vulnerable to wicking.

Installation

Metals, Inc. compression-molded gratings and pultruded grating are easily and economically installed, because they are lightweight and easy to handle.

Gratings can be cut in the field using saws equipped with ceramic or masonry blades. Simpler cuts may be made with a hand hacksaw. Cut ends must be coated with resin for corrosion resistance. Resin seal kits are available from International Grating.

SQUARE MESH GRATING

Square mesh grating has bi-directional bearing strength.

Compression-molded square- mesh grating offers maximum design and installation versatility because bearing bars span in both directions. Square-mesh panels are ideal for raised flooring applications.

Five premium resin systems and several special options are available.

RECTANGULAR - MESH GRATING

Rectangular-mesh grating spans lengthwise

Rectangular-Mesh grating is compression-molded in 3x9 - foot panels and several thicknesses. The panel size matches most steel gratings, to simplify replacing existing steel grating. Rectangular panels span lengthwise (108"). Five premium vinylester and polyester resin systems are available.

GENERAL INFORMATION | PULTRUDED