Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) composite panels are used widely across industries due to their lightweight yet durable construction. However, before FRP became mainstream, this revolutionary material was kept closely guarded and reserved for military aircraft in the 1940s. It wasn’t until the late 20th century that fiber-reinforced plastic panels would become in high demand, forcing manufacturers to produce cost-effective solutions.
The Secret Behind FRPs Lightweight Durability
FRP panels combine a fibrous material, such as fiberglass, into a lighter-weight plastic matrix, infusing the panel with interior stability. Suspended in specially designed polymers, the added fibers result in dramatically increased strength and durability while reducing the overall weight. These combined characteristics made them ideal solutions for the weight-cautious applications of military aircraft.
FRP panels are manufactured exactly to specifications and aren’t restricted to the standard 48-inch width of steel or aluminum sheet. Hardware, such as latches, can easily be integrated into the panels during manufacturing, reducing production steps and ensuring longer-lasting durability. Their unique construction results in seamless panels with reduced weak points where moisture or other contamination can compromise the structural integrity.
Why are FRP Panels so Popular?
Fiber-reinforced plastics provide more than just a cost-effective solution to lightweight and durable requirements. The latest advancements in material sciences have produced innovative polymers with superior resistance characteristics. FRP has a greater elasticity over traditional counterparts, providing exceptional resistance to impact and scratching damages, making them ideal for the transportation sector. FRP panels are also naturally resistant to moisture and corrosion. They won’t mold and mildew when exposed to wet and humid environments.
- Lightweight
- Strong & Durable
- Excellent Resistance Qualities
- Cost-Effective & Customizable
FRP panels come in a wide variety of finish options, including various textures and gloss levels, providing an almost endless ability to be customized to unique branding and color schemes.
Applications Across Industries
Due to their lightweight construction and natural resistance to moisture and corrosion, fiber-reinforced plastic panels are widely used for both interior and exterior applications across all industries, including:
- Marine and Aquatic
- Transportation and Recreational Vehicles
- Automotive and Aerospace
- Construction and Industrial
- Electrical and Power Generation
For more information on FRP Panels used across industries, please contact the experts at CPT today.