2
4. Chemical Compatibility
s and solvents. FRP has a broader range of chemical com-
patibility compared to steel. It can resist the effects of a
wide array of chemicals without suffering degradation,
which steel might not withstand.4,5
5. Customization
FRP components offer extensive customization options,
allowing for the creation of intricate shapes in a single piece
without the requirement for additional welding or joints.
Furthermore, the layered composition of FRP enables the
design to be tailored for maximum strength in the desired
direction, thereby optimizing both the cost and weight of
the components.6
6. Insulating Electrical Properties
FRP is a non-conductive material. This property is valuable
in environments where electrical conduction is hazardous.
It should be noted that the corrosion barrier of the FRP
pipes and tanks can be made conductive when grounding
is a requirement
7. Insulating Thermal Properties
FRP offers good thermal insulation properties which is ben-
eficial where there is a need to design for thermally insulated
components.7 Similar to the electrical conductivity, the
thermal properties of the corrosion barrier can be increased
if proper heat distribution properties are beneficial.
8. Reduced Maintenance Cost and Longevity
Steel pipes and tanks demand an integrity and rehabili-
tation plan that can include blast cleaning, re- painting,
geometry inspections, ultrasound assessment, and more.
The non-corrosive nature of FRP reduces the need for
regular upkeep, saving both time and money. In mining
and chemical industries where assets are expected to endure
harsh conditions, the durability of FRP can be a significant
cost-saving factor over time.
9. Environmental Impact
FRP materials have a smaller carbon footprint compared
to the production of steel. Using FRP aligns with sustain-
ability goals and regulatory requirements8.
As technology and manufacturing techniques continue
to advance, FRP will likely play an increasingly vital role in
ensuring the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of mining
and chemical operations. These industries are adapting to
harness the benefits of FRP, recognizing it as a worthy alter-
native to steel for several applications.
FULL FACE (FF) AND LAP JOINT (LJ)
FLANGES
A flange is a mechanical component that serves as a con-
nection point in a system of machinery or piping. Flanges
are used to facilitate the assembly and disassembly, align-
ment, and secure attachment of various components, such
as pipes, valves, or other mechanical elements. They have
Figure 1. (a) LJ and (b) FF flange
4. Chemical Compatibility
s and solvents. FRP has a broader range of chemical com-
patibility compared to steel. It can resist the effects of a
wide array of chemicals without suffering degradation,
which steel might not withstand.4,5
5. Customization
FRP components offer extensive customization options,
allowing for the creation of intricate shapes in a single piece
without the requirement for additional welding or joints.
Furthermore, the layered composition of FRP enables the
design to be tailored for maximum strength in the desired
direction, thereby optimizing both the cost and weight of
the components.6
6. Insulating Electrical Properties
FRP is a non-conductive material. This property is valuable
in environments where electrical conduction is hazardous.
It should be noted that the corrosion barrier of the FRP
pipes and tanks can be made conductive when grounding
is a requirement
7. Insulating Thermal Properties
FRP offers good thermal insulation properties which is ben-
eficial where there is a need to design for thermally insulated
components.7 Similar to the electrical conductivity, the
thermal properties of the corrosion barrier can be increased
if proper heat distribution properties are beneficial.
8. Reduced Maintenance Cost and Longevity
Steel pipes and tanks demand an integrity and rehabili-
tation plan that can include blast cleaning, re- painting,
geometry inspections, ultrasound assessment, and more.
The non-corrosive nature of FRP reduces the need for
regular upkeep, saving both time and money. In mining
and chemical industries where assets are expected to endure
harsh conditions, the durability of FRP can be a significant
cost-saving factor over time.
9. Environmental Impact
FRP materials have a smaller carbon footprint compared
to the production of steel. Using FRP aligns with sustain-
ability goals and regulatory requirements8.
As technology and manufacturing techniques continue
to advance, FRP will likely play an increasingly vital role in
ensuring the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of mining
and chemical operations. These industries are adapting to
harness the benefits of FRP, recognizing it as a worthy alter-
native to steel for several applications.
FULL FACE (FF) AND LAP JOINT (LJ)
FLANGES
A flange is a mechanical component that serves as a con-
nection point in a system of machinery or piping. Flanges
are used to facilitate the assembly and disassembly, align-
ment, and secure attachment of various components, such
as pipes, valves, or other mechanical elements. They have
Figure 1. (a) LJ and (b) FF flange