If you are planning to construct a house, office or anything – You might have faced this dilemma. That which one is better FRP vs Steel cable trays. Should you try the traditional steel cable tray or FRP (Fiber reinforced polymer). And, yes it’s not an easy choice but I can make it easier for you.
FRP (Fiber reinforced polymer) – FRP is an engineered material consisting of reinforced fibers, polymer resin and additives to achieve the desired outcomes possibilities. It is known for its height to weight ratio that Is ideal for purposes like construction (beams, rebar, bridges), aerospace, marine, and industrial uses where it replaces heavier materials like steel or concrete.
FRP consists of Composite materials (Combines a polymer with fibres), polymer (acts as a binder and protects the fibre) and fibres (Typically glass – make it fiberglass)
Steel Cable Trays– A rigid, structural system that is used to support and protect the electrical pathways and communication cables. Steel cables are made from various type of steels- HDG( Hot Dip Galvanized) Pre-Galvanized (Mill-Galvanized) for cost-effective corrosion resistance, Stainless Steel (like 304, 316, 316L) for high hygiene/corrosion environments.
1.Durability: Durability might be where the biggest differences show up – Now this depends on the exterior environment –
Marine/Coastal – FRP looks good even after decades. Steel on the other hand rusts within 2-5 years without treatment.
Chemical/Plants – FRP stays intact and fine. With no degradation while steel tray requires special coating but fails eventually.
Wastewater Treatment- FRP remains unaffected by H2s and other gases on the other hand steel has rapid deterioration even with coatings.
Outdoor Exposure- For FRP minimal UV degradation with additives while steel surface rusts with in few months.
2.Cost of maintenance : FRP has one time first costs while steel has more rust treatments, repainting and other costs.
3.Trending market trends : FRP has a sustainability push with carbon footprint being 40% less than steel. FRP doesn’t need constant changes and more investments – from a cost awareness perspective. That governments and industries worldwide are looking for one-time costs not repetitive costs.
Steel industry response – Steel is also not standing still – its innovating with the GREEN STEEL PRODUCTION, advanced alloys and more.
Weight Advantages – FRP is light weight than the steel ones. And it is 75% less than the steel cable trays. This is one benefit we usually don’t talk about. Both FRP and steel has their distinctive applications and benefits. The right choice depends on your specific needs.
If you are looking between choosing from Steel cable trays VS FRP and this helped you in any way, Shree Raj offers the best FRP cable tray for your business for your unmatched reliability, full assistance.