Fibreglass Industrial Applications
Traditional Power Stations
Traditional Power Stations – coal and gas-fired power stations utilise fibreglass for cooling tower complete structures, cooling water systems and for chemical storage in dosing systems, alongside pressure vessels for the water treatment systems. Cooling water piping systems from 3-4m diameter, down to 150mm water and lube oil lines, are vital to the operation of these power stations.
Geothermal Power Stations
with the aggressive nature of geothermal steam condensate, fibreglass is widely used for durability and longevity throughout the power station including cooling water and condensate piping systems, gas extraction system ducting and for the cooling tower pultruded structures, fans and fan cowls as well as cladding systems and handrails. Alongside chemical storage and also for stormwater and condensate drain piping systems, fibreglass materials handle the harsh alkaline condensate environment. GRP pipe to 3m diameter is well proven long term.
Fertiliser Manufacturing
Fertiliser manufacturers widely use fibreglass throughout the manufacturing process for chemical piping systems, chemical storage tanks, process air containment covers, extraction ducting, fans, and scrubber systems to remove particulates and chemicals in both the den and storage areas.
Pulp and Paper Processing
Fibreglass is widely used in chemical and thermo-mechanical pulp processing and in paper mills for many piping systems, chemical storage tanks and air pollution control systems throughout the mills.
Wastewater Treatment Plants
FRP/GRP offers longevity and durability in wastewater treatment plants, from inlet piping through primary, secondary, and tertiary treatment stages to outfalls. Piping systems, odour control covers and ducting systems, chemical storage tanks and underground manholes and tanks all utilise FRP for longevity.
Water Desalination Plants
Fibreglass is a material of choice for desalination plant projects where inlet saltwater, brine solutions and demineralised water can all be aggressive to traditional materials. FRP is used for piping systems, the RO membrane cartridges, filter vessels and an array of applications. The alternative material, duplex stainless steel, carries a high cost penalty compared to FRP.
Mineral Processing Plants
FRP is used for corrosion resistance in a wide range of mineral ore processing operations, including nickel, copper, gold, and rare-earth minerals. Applications include fibreglass pipes, tanks, and process vessels in extraction processes, as well as in water treatment applications.
Electricity Transmission
Fibreglass, predominantly in pultrusions, is gaining popularity worldwide for power transmission, with use for cross arms, isolation items, and power poles themselves instead of timber, steel, or concrete. Pull-wound FRP light poles with fire-retardant resins provide high longitudinal strength and durability. Fibreglass rebar negates stray currents in concrete around sub-stations, also.
Telecommunications
With their low density and their ability to protect telecom equipment, fibreglass radomes and covers are proven in the harshest environments worldwide. From smaller airport ILS radar system protection to 6m diameter radomes on large towers, fibreglass provides the strength and corrosion resistance required.
Automotive Fuel Distribution
Fibreglass underground fuel tanks have been proven in service since the 1960s. They are the product of choice across the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and many other regions of the world. Double-wall tanks with continuous leak-monitoring systems enable the safe underground storage of fuel. Fibreglass lining of large fuel storage silo’s also adds life to corroded steel tanks.
Wind Turbine Power Generation
Fibreglass wind turbine blades now exceed 100m in length, and 2-3MW turbines are commonplace in offshore and onshore wind farms globally. The lightweight, high-strength, and easy-to-manufacture-to-the-optimum-blade-shape characteristics make fibreglass the material of choice for blades and nacelle housings.
Hydropower Generation
Fibreglass penstocks have been proven in service for nearly 50 years, with FRP suitable for pressures up to 32 bar, continuous operating pressure, and long-term service.
FRP replaces steel in small hydro and lower-head applications for both underground and aboveground penstocks.
