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Performance, compliance, and constructability are common concerns when designing for water and wastewater infrastructure. Downtime periods have to be strictly observed, to minimise inconvenience to the communities they serve, while also keeping in mind that selected materials need to be able to withstand the harsh environment of the treatment plants. These also need to ensure long-term reliability and safety.
Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) has emerged as a material that addresses these challenges directly. Beyond its well-known resistance to corrosion and low maintenance needs, GRP offers significant advantages during both the design and construction phases. From prefabrication off-site to simple on-site adaptability, GRP provides practical solutions that align with the priorities of designers and consultants tasked with delivering efficient, compliant, and durable infrastructure.
Off-Site Manufacturing for Greater Efficiency
A key advantage of GRP in water and wastewater projects is the ability to manufacture components off-site to exact design specifications. Structures such as access platforms, walkways, stairs, handrails, and enclosures can be prefabricated before being delivered to site.
This approach brings several benefits:
- Shorter installation times – GRP structures are lightweight and modular, often installed in a fraction of the time that steel requires.
- Less manpower required – lightweight components can be assembled without extensive equipment or large crews.
For designers, this means improved constructability and reduced risk, particularly at constrained or live treatment sites.
Adaptability on Site
Even with precise planning, unforeseen adjustments are sometimes required during installation. GRP offers flexibility in these situations: components can be cut, drilled, or trimmed with simple hand tools, without the need for specialist trades.
Crucially, unlike steel, GRP modifications do not require welding or grinding. No hot works means no permits, no added fire risk, and no unnecessary delays. This allows for quick, safe, and cost-effective adjustments if conditions on site differ from the original design.