How to Cut Fiberglass Grating
Cutting FRP Grating is easy if you do it right. You can use the same saws used for cutting wood, to cut FRP. They key is to use a diamond tip blade. If you try to use a regular blade to cut fiberglass grating, it will dull very quickly.
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This video shows how to cut FRP Grating safely using a standard skill saw.
Be Safe When You Cut FRP Grating
These safety tips are very important. When cutting FRP, you should saw a little slower that you would normally cut wood. If you try to cut too fast, the saw blade might get jammed. There will be quite a bit of fiberglass dust, so be sure to use a mask with a proper fiberglass filter. If you don&#;t have a ventilation system, a fan will help direct the dust away from you.
You can cut curves and angles in fiberglass grating the same way. You can use a reciprocating saw or a jig-saw. Again, the key is to use a diamond-tip blade.
When you cut FRP grating, the general rule is that you have to re-seal it with polyurethane. You can pick up a can of polyurethane spray at any paint store. However, some of the varieties of grating we sell at National Grating have a polymer composition that is so durable, re-sealing may not be required in some applications. Contact us to learn which type of grating best suits your needs.
So, the next time you buy Fiberglass Grating from National Grating, you can either order it cut to size, or order full panels and choose to cut FRP grating yourself!
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National Grating provides pultruded and molded fiberglass grating, fiberglass tube, fiberglass angle and hardware to ALL USA States including California, Oregon, Florida, New York, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Georgia, Michigan, Virginia, Massachusetts, Arizona, Washington, North Carolina, Nevada, Texas, New Mexico, Indiana, Tennessee, Colorado, Maryland, Missouri, Wisconsin and Utah. Our pricing and service experts are standing by to help to find the best product for your project. With many varieties in stock and expedited shipping, we can supply your project with fiberglass grating at the best price.
Fiberglass Grating and Radio Frequency Transparency
In today&#;s connected world, we depend on cellular signals, Wi-Fi networks and over the air radio and television signals. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity are essential to on-site work environments. Steel structures significantly disrupt these signals. Fiberglass grating is an essential part of FRP building structures that are &#;electronically transparent&#; and do not interfere with radio frequency transmissions.
Whether you&#;re researching how to cut fiberglass grating (FRP grating) as part of exploring this versatile material or you already know it is a great choice for your project, this quick guide explains how easy working with FRP grating can be.
Why Cutting FRP Grating is Easier (and Less Costly) than Working with Steel
Compared to steel:
...and, while it&#;s important to learn how to cut fiberglass grating if you haven&#;t worked with it before, the process is fairly straightforward.
Safety First
Before starting, observe some common sense safety precautions:
-
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect yourself from potential hazards. Wear safety glasses and a dust mask (NIOSH/MSHA approved, with a permissible exposure limit (PEL) of not less than 0.1 mg/M3). This is essential to shield the eyes and respiratory system from fiberglass dust particles. Note that if you have a respiratory ailment, you should not fabricate FRP products.
- Always wear gloves
when handling
and cutting FRP grating.
Are you interested in learning more about heavy duty fiberglass grating? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
- Wear clothing to reduce exposure to dust, which can cause skin irritation.
- Review and follow epoxy coating or sealing kit safety procedures prior to use.
- Ensure that the work area is adequately ventilated
to prevent the accumulation of airborne fibers.
- Familiarize yourself with the safety data sheets (SDS)
, for your chosen product. These will outline the necessary precautions and handling procedures.
Cutting Fiberglass Grating Requires Only Common Tools and Materials
The required tools include:
- Safety glasses, dust mask, and other essential PPE
- A measuring tape for accurate measurements
- Cutting equipment appropriate for your installation, which may include a circular saw, jigsaw, or grinder
- Clamps to secure the grating and a marking pen to create precise cutting lines
Prep Your Work Area for Cutting FRP Grating
Before you begin:
- Ensure your work area is clear of any obstacles that could hinder your movements, including any debris or tools that could interfere with the cutting process.
- Set up a stable work surface or workbench where you can securely place the grating for cutting.
- Arrange your tools and materials within easy reach, promoting efficiency and minimizing the risk of accidents.
Measuring, Marking, and Cutting FRP Grating
As with any construction material, &#;measure twice, cut once&#; applies when cutting fiberglass grating to ensure a proper fit:
- Identify the correct dimensions for the grating based on your installation requirements.
- Using a measuring tape to measure the length and width accurately, mark the cutting lines with your marking pen.
- Double-check the measurements before proceeding to the cutting stage to avoid costly mistakes.
Note: Support the panel to make sure it doesn&#;t move or flex while you&#;re cutting.
Methods and Techniques for Cutting FRP Grating
The choice of cutting method depends on the thickness of the grating and the complexity of the cut:
- For straight cuts, a circular saw with a fine-toothed blade is often the most efficient option.
- If you need to make curved or angled cuts, a jigsaw with a fiberglass-cutting blade can provide the necessary precision.
- In some cases, a grinder with a cutting wheel can be used for intricate cuts.
In all cases, remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions for each cutting tool and wear appropriate PPE throughout the process.
Finishing and Smoothing Edges
After cutting the fiberglass grating:
- Inspect the cut edges for any roughness or imperfections.
- Smooth out any unevenness using a file or sandpaper.
- Double-check all edges, ensuring they are smooth and free from sharp protrusions that could pose a safety hazard during installation or handling.
- Use an epoxy sealer to coat sanded/cut surfaces to prevent corrosive chemicals from reaching exposed glass fibers.
Cleaning Up, and Additional Resources for Learning How to Cut Fiberglass Grating
Safely dispose of any fiberglass dust or debris generated during the cutting process. Fiberglass dust can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system, so it is crucial to handle it with care. Clean the work area thoroughly, removing any remaining dust or debris. Store your tools and leftover materials properly to maintain their longevity and ensure they are ready for future use.
This is a &#;quick guide&#; providing a high-level overview of the process. You should review our detailed guide to FRP fabrication along with the other references mentioned here.
We also invite you to explore the diverse range of Fibergrate FRP products and contact your local dealer for more information. We&#;re confident you&#;ll find significant benefits in choosing fiberglass grating, and you&#;ll enjoy its durability and versatility in various industrial and commercial applications for years to come.
Want more information on pultruded fiberglass grating? Feel free to contact us.