In the dynamic world of industrial platforms, the choice between materials can significantly impact durability, safety, cost and overall efficiency. Fiberglass-reinforced polymer (FRP), aluminum and steel are three options for Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) managers, maintenance managers, and facilities and plant managers. In the following chart and article, we’ll explore how FRP compares to metal, especially in terms of strength, safety, impact resistance and cost of ownership.
For an overview, take a look at this chart before delving into a more detailed exploration of the comparison.
Now that you've seen a side-by-side comparison, let’s dig deeper into a few of the most important features to consider when comparing FRP industrial platforms to metal industrial platforms.
Strength
One of the standout features of FRP is its impressive strength-to-weight ratio. Pound for pound, FRP delivers the strength of steel while being significantly lighter. This characteristic can be a game-changer, as it reduces the risk of overloaded joints and connections. FRP weighs 75% less than steel and 30% less than aluminum. The lightweight nature of FRP not only simplifies transportation but also eases installation, saving both time and money.
Safety
In industrial settings, safety is paramount. Fiberglass-reinforced polymer industrial platforms take the lead in this regard as their components do not conduct electricity. This property drastically reduces the risk of electrical shock, providing a safer environment for workers. Traditional metal structures such as metal work platforms and metal stair components, on the other hand, can pose a threat if exposed to live electrical components, making FRP an ideal choice for industries where electrical safety is critical.
Impact Resistance
In a bustling industrial setting, tools or heavy items may be dropped. Unlike metal, FRP is highly impact-resistant, meaning that even if a heavy object is dropped, there won’t be dents or sharp edges on the platform that could cause accidents. This feature not only enhances workplace safety but also extends the lifespan of the industrial platform by preventing damage that may compromise structural integrity.
Cost of Ownership
Choosing FRP over metal doesn’t just promote a safer workplace; it also translates to significant cost savings throughout the industrial platform’s life cycle. The initial cost savings begin with the reduced weight of FRP solutions, which cuts down on shipping and installation expenses. Unlike steel structures that may require specialized labor and equipment, FRP platforms can be easily handled and installed using standard tools.
Moreover, the increased safety benefits of FRP may lead to lower insurance costs, as the risk of accidents and injuries is diminished. The long-term cost-effectiveness of FRP is further highlighted by its virtually maintenance-free nature. Corrosion and impact resistance mean that FRP platforms have a significantly longer lifespan compared to their metal counterparts, making them a smart investment for industries exposed to humidity, saltwater and chemicals.
The FRP Advantage
In the industrial platform landscape, the choice between FRP and metal is clear. FRP’s superior strength, non-conductive properties, impact resistance and lower cost of ownership make it a compelling option for safety-conscious businesses aiming to optimize efficiency and financial resources. As industries evolve, embracing innovative materials like FRP becomes a strategic move, ensuring a secure and cost-effective foundation for industrial operations.
Product Profile: ReadyPlatform from Bedford Reinforced Plastics
As industries increasingly recognize the advantages of FRP, Bedford stands out as a leading provider of cutting-edge solutions. ReadyPlatform from our ReadySeries lineup exemplifies the pinnacle of FRP technology, offering pre-engineered modular platforms that seamlessly integrate strength, safety and cost-effectiveness. Bedford delivers FRP industrial work platforms that not only surpass traditional metal structures in durability and performance but also provide a hassle-free experience from installation to long-term use. (Download assembly instructions here.)
Every ReadyPlatform modular industrial platform and catwalk system is OSHA compliant and built for a 60 PSF live load, meeting strict OSHA guidelines for worker safety:
- Meets all load-bearing and fall-protection requirements
- Designed to handle heavy load requirements
- Components feature anti-slip surfaces and fire-retardant resins
- Safety yellow coloring is integrated into the material, so it can’t fade or be scraped off
In addition, all ReadyPlatform industrial walkways and catwalks include a ReadyRail guardrail that protects against slips and falls. They can also include ReadyLadder industrial platform ladder components or ReadyStair industrial platform stairs for safe access.
ReadyPlatform solutions were developed specifically to meet any configuration need quickly, without the time and expense of a custom design. Because ReadyPlatform offers modular solutions, you have the configuration flexibility to go over obstacles, around corners, up multiple floors and more. So, whether you need modular work access platforms, catwalks, warehouse mezzanines or multi-floor walkways with handrails, stairs or ladders, you can get just what you need. A wide variety of heights is available, and ReadyPlatform components can handle a load up to 60 pounds per square foot.
ReadyPlatform: Quick-Ship and Easy to Install
Modular FRP platforms like ReadyPlatform also stand out for their quick shipping and easy installation. Designed with efficiency in mind, these platforms require no fabrication and allow for swift assembly through quick bolting, reducing project downtime and accelerating timelines. Their modular nature simplifies shipping, taking advantage of the lightweight composition of FRP to minimize costs and ensure rapid transportation to the jobsite. This streamlined process, from procurement to deployment, positions modular FRP platforms like ReadyPlatform as the optimal choice for industries aiming to maximize both efficiency and resources.
Watch our ReadyPlatform video to learn more:
Check out the Complete Guide to Bedford’s ReadySeries FRP Solutions to learn more, and find resources such as product literature and specifications here.
Get Started
ReadyPlatform components are stocked and ready to ship, so you can install safe, long-lasting industrial work and maintenance access platforms without waiting for a custom design.
Reach out to our team with questions, request a quote or call 814-623-8125 to discuss your project.