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About GRP

GENERAL

Composites are a range of reinforced materials; offering numerous advantages over traditional materials. They are generally lightweight – yet incredibly strong – and offer a wide selection radical designs… whilst remaining extremely cost effective to produce.

AllScope’s main area of expertise lies with GRP (Glassfibre Reinforced Polyester), with GRP being the ideal material for a wide range of applications, including:

  • Automotive
  • Transportation
  • Aerospace
  • Leisure
  • Sanitary
  • Defence
  • Furniture
  • Chemical
  • Display
  • Construction
  • Structural
  • Medical
  • Nuclear
  • General industrial

HISTORY

Over the past 50 years; composites have developed from being a material offering a cost effective alternative to traditional materials for simple applications; such as basic car bodies and machine guards; to encompass a wide range of uses. Consequently, they are now the materials of choice for a number of high-tech applications, such as aircraft sections and wind turbine blades.

PROPERTIES

  • Durable
  • Chemical resistant
  • Flexible design
  • Non corrosive
  • Low tooling costs
  • Good finish
  • Good weatherability
  • Adaptable
  • Lightweight
  • Cost effective
  • Strong

PROCESSES

  • Hand lay
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  • Closed mould
  • Vacuum infusion
  • RTM
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  • Low tooling costs
  • Ideal for small batches
  • Good quality finish
  • Short lead time to production
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  • Medium tooling costs
  • Two finished faces
  • Controlled thickness
  • Greater volume per tool

SIZE

Mouldings, from as small as a cup holder; to as large as a double decker bus front end – and everything in between – are all suitable applications for GRP.

SHAPE

GRP is the ideal material to produce mouldings with radius’ and curves, giving products a flowing organic look and feel.

COLOURS/FINISHES

The surface gelcoat of a GRP moulding can be specified in virtually any colour – and in both gloss and matt finishes. Painting the surface can add different looks and textures.

FIRE RETARDENT

GRP mouldings can be specified to conform to the requirements of BS476 Part 7 , Class 1 and class 2. If low smoke and toxicity are the main considerations, other resin types are available.