On The Right Track: Using GRP Open Mesh Grating for Railways
In modern railway infrastructure, safety, durability, and cost-efficiency are key considerations for construction and maintenance teams. Railway operators are always on the lookout for materials that enhance these elements, and GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) open mesh grating has emerged as a star player. GRP offers a wide range of benefits that align perfectly with the unique demands of the railway sector.
In this post we look at the advantages of using GRP open mesh grating for railways, along with its main uses in driver platforms, walkways, pedestrian bridges, trench covers, and access ladders. From enhanced safety to long-lasting durability, we’ll explore why GRP is truly the right track for railway infrastructure.
What is GRP Open Mesh Grating?
GRP open mesh grating is a strong, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant alternative to traditional materials such as steel, aluminium, and wood. It is made by reinforcing plastic with fine glass fibres, resulting in a composite material that is tough, durable, and capable of withstanding extreme conditions. This grating features an open mesh design, allowing liquids to pass through while providing a non-slip surface that is safe for pedestrian and industrial use.
The Benefits of GRP Open Mesh Grating for Railways
Corrosion Resistance
One of the greatest advantages of GRP is its inherent corrosion resistance. Railways are often exposed to a variety of harsh environmental conditions—extreme weather, salt spray in coastal regions, and chemicals from train operations. Unlike steel, which is prone to rusting, or wood, which can rot, GRP is resistant to these elements. This makes GRP ideal for outdoor applications such as railway walkways, platforms, and bridges, where constant exposure to moisture and other corrosive elements is unavoidable.
Lightweight Yet Strong
Despite being incredibly lightweight, GRP open mesh grating offers exceptional strength and load-bearing capacity. This makes it easy to handle and install, reducing labour costs and transportation expenses. The material’s lightness is particularly beneficial for railway applications, where large sections of grating often need to be lifted into place. Despite its light weight, GRP can bear substantial loads, making it suitable for high-traffic areas like pedestrian bridges and maintenance platforms.
Non-Slip Surface
Safety is paramount in railway operations, and GRP excels in this regard. The open mesh design of GRP grating provides excellent drainage, preventing water from pooling on the surface, and its texture offers a high degree of slip resistance. This reduces the risk of accidents, particularly in wet or icy conditions. For railway operators, the enhanced safety profile of GRP can lead to fewer accidents and reduced liability, making it a smart investment.
Low Maintenance
GRP open mesh grating requires very little maintenance compared to traditional materials. Steel grating may need regular painting and rustproofing, and wood must be treated to avoid rot or insect damage. GRP, on the other hand, retains its structural integrity and appearance with minimal upkeep, even in the most demanding conditions. This reduces long-term maintenance costs and makes GRP a cost-effective choice for railway infrastructure.
Electrical Insulation
As a non-conductive material, GRP provides excellent electrical insulation, which is a crucial safety feature in railway environments. This makes it an ideal material for use near electrical equipment, power lines, and control rooms, where workers and passengers could be at risk of electric shock from metal components.
Main Applications of GRP Open Mesh Grating in Railways
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Driver Platforms
Driver platforms are essential for providing safe, stable areas where train operators can access the cabin or conduct routine inspections. Traditionally, driver platforms have been constructed using steel or wood, but GRP offers significant advantages in this application. Its corrosion resistance means it can withstand constant exposure to the elements, while its lightweight design makes it easy to install. The non-slip surface of GRP grating also ensures the safety of operators as they move around the platform, even in wet or icy conditions.
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Walkways
Railway walkways are heavily trafficked by maintenance teams, engineers, and other personnel who need to safely navigate tracks and equipment. GRP open mesh grating is an excellent choice for these walkways due to its slip-resistant surface and ability to withstand harsh conditions. Its corrosion resistance ensures that it remains structurally sound even in coastal areas or regions with high humidity. GRP walkways also offer excellent drainage, reducing the risk of slips and falls. Because GRP is non-conductive, it’s also a safer option for walkways near electrical systems and power lines.
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Pedestrian Bridges
In many railway stations and facilities, pedestrian bridges provide safe crossing points over tracks and train lines. GRP open mesh grating is ideally suited for these structures, offering a lightweight yet durable option that resists corrosion and requires little maintenance. GRP’s slip-resistant surface adds an extra layer of safety for pedestrians, and its resistance to corrosion makes it a durable solution for long-term use in high-traffic areas.
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Trench Covers
Service troughs are used to carry cables, wires, and other equipment along railway lines, protecting them from damage while keeping them easily accessible for maintenance. GRP grating serves as an excellent cover for these trenches. Its non-conductive properties provide electrical insulation, reducing the risk of electrical hazards. Additionally, the lightweight nature of GRP grating makes it easy to remove and replace the trench covers during routine maintenance, improving efficiency for railway maintenance teams.
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Access Ladders
Access ladders are vital for allowing railway personnel to safely access elevated areas, such as signal towers, control rooms, or maintenance platforms. GRP ladders are lightweight and easy to install, while their non-slip surface provides extra security for workers climbing in wet or windy conditions. The corrosion-resistant nature of GRP means that the ladders will last longer than traditional materials, particularly in outdoor environments where they are exposed to rain, snow, and UV radiation. Additionally, the non-conductive properties of GRP ladders make them safer for use near electrical equipment.
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Staging Platforms
Staging platforms are temporary or semi-permanent platforms used during railway construction, maintenance, and repairs. They provide workers with a stable and secure surface for carrying out tasks, often in challenging or remote locations. GRP open mesh grating is ideal for these platforms due to its light weight, which simplifies transportation and assembly, and its strength, which supports heavy loads and equipment. GRP’s slip-resistant surface enhances worker safety, while its corrosion-resistant and fire-resistant properties ensure longevity, even in harsh environments.
Conclusion: GRP – The Ideal Solution for Modern Railways
GRP open mesh grating has proven itself to be an invaluable material for modern railway infrastructure. Its lightweight yet durable nature, combined with resistance to corrosion, fire, and electricity, makes it the perfect choice for a range of applications, from driver platforms and walkways to pedestrian bridges and access ladders. GRP provides significant safety benefits, long-term durability, and reduced maintenance costs, ensuring that railways remain efficient and safe for both workers and passengers.
With the increasing demands of railway networks, it is critical for operators to invest in materials that offer reliability and performance under harsh conditions. GRP open mesh grating does just that, ensuring that railway infrastructure remains on the right track for years to come. Whether it’s improving safety on walkways or reducing maintenance costs on bridges, GRP is a forward-thinking solution that every railway operator should consider.
Talk to the experts:
With over 18 year experience in working with GRP, our team has a deep understanding of our customers challenges, and the expertise and specialist knowledge to design bespoke GRP solutions.
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