FAQs
Why choose FRP trench covers over steel or concrete?
FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic) is significantly lighter than steel or concrete, allowing a single worker to safely remove the cover without heavy machinery. Additionally, FRP will not rust, rot, or corrode, making it ideal for highly corrosive industrial environments like wastewater treatment plants.
How do FRP trench covers perform in corrosive or chemical environments?
Unlike traditional metal covers that rapidly degrade when exposed to harsh chemicals, saltwater, or continuous moisture, Fibergrate’s FRP covers are inherently corrosion-resistant. This makes them the ultimate solution for water treatment and chemical processing environments. To see this in action, read our case study on how we deployed Utility Trench Covers for a Wastewater Treatment Plant to combat severe environmental degradation.
Can lightweight composite trench covers support vehicular traffic?
Yes. Despite being a fraction of the weight of steel, Fibergrate’s engineered composite systems have a high strength-to-weight ratio. ThruBeam®’s innovative internal structures provide superior load-bearing capacity, ensuring safe passage for both heavy foot traffic and light vehicular loads across industrial sites.
Are composite trench covers slip-resistant?
Yes. Fibergrate and ThruBeam® trench covers are manufactured with an integrated grit surface that provides maximum traction for pedestrians and vehicles, ensuring strict compliance with OSHA safety standards even in wet conditions.
Do FRP trench covers have scrap value?
No. Unlike cast iron or steel covers, composite and FRP trench covers have zero scrap value. This eliminates the risk of theft, which is a major security concern for utility and infrastructure facility owners.
How do I choose between molded and pultruded grating for trench covers?
The choice depends on your required clear span, load type, and environment. Molded grating offers superior bi-directional strength and maximum corrosion resistance, while pultruded grating provides higher unidirectional load capacity for longer spans.
How do I match FRP trench grating to my existing concrete trench edges?
Fibergrate offers trench covers and High Load Capacity (HLC) grating in standard depths, such as 1", 1-1/2", and 2", allowing you to seamlessly match your existing embedded angle or concrete ledge dimensions without requiring structural modifications.
Can FRP grating be used for agricultural or animal penning trenches?
Yes. FRP is highly resistant to animal waste, moisture, and cleaning chemicals, making it an excellent, easy-to-clean solution for agricultural trenches, washdown pits, and animal penning drainage systems.
Do you offer trench covers with specific drainage or open-area requirements?
Yes. Depending on your needs, we offer everything from solid covered grating to stop debris from falling through, to ADA-compliant Aqua Grate® pultruded grating, which features optimal open areas for rapid water drainage while preventing slip hazards.