FRP lining is treated as a significant application in the fibre glass industry because of the vivid application, like leak proofing of roof tops, tank lining in chemical industries, reinforcement/manufacturing of PVC-PP chemical tanks, anti corrosion treatment of metal tanks etc. Using our special grade resins could attain various properties. The high-grade resins that we develop can withstand the impacts of strong acids and high temperature. The same is used in the chemical industries as protective layers for chemical storage.

Definition of Some of important material in FRP Lining

Use of Surface Mat

The surface mat keeps the reinforcing fibers of the composites away from the exterior environment and also helps providing a resin rich surface having good mechanical stability. This results in FRP composites having better resistance to weathering, corrosion and abrasion.

Use of Resin Rich surface

Even though surface mat is used on the exposed surface of the FRP lining, further coating of the surface with a coat of resin will greatly improve the long term chemical resistance. The top coat eliminates possible pin holes on the surface and keeps the surface smooth and dirt free.

Use of UV Stablized Top Coat Resin

For outdoor application it is strongly recommended to use UV stabilized Top coat to protect lining from UV radiation of sunlight.

Use of Special Top Coat resin

The resin rich layer should not be allowed to cure in presence of air since the resin surface that is exposed to air do not cure properly. This can be avoided by using the specially designed top coat which ensure the complete curing even in the presence of air.

Important Steps for FRP Lining

FRP Linings are widely used to protect the steel structures exposed in the chemical and outdoor applications. FRP lining is suitable for severe gas service and also immersed condition services. Following precautions must be observed for long lasting and effective lining job.

Surface preparation is a must by either by sand blasting/ sanders or pickling and surface priming.

Use Flexiblized lay-up resin with 3-4% elongation.

Total thickness built up need to be 2.0-3.5 mm with ideal composition of 25% glass and 75% resin.

Surface mat of “C” glass must be used on top of the lining followed with a lay up of curing Top coat.

Cure at room temperature for at least 24 hours followed by post curing at 80^C for at least six hours.

Ensure complete curing of the lining.

For a good service of FRP lining following precautions at the user end are recommended

Service temperature should be limited to 60-70^c.

Sudden changes in service temperature should be avoided.

POLYESTER/VINYL ESTER RESINS

Polyester and Vinyl Esters contain styrene monomer, which warrants certain safety precautions. However these resins in the cured form are considered safe and no special precautions in handling them are indicated. The following information is applicable to liquid resins only.

Toxicity:

-Exposure to high levels of styrene vapors may lead to central nervous system effects like Narcosis, Anesthesia and upper respiratory irritation. Hence high concentration of styrene vapors in atmosphere to be avoided, maximum level of vapors on 8 hrs. exposure basis 100 ppm.

-Working area to be provided with proper ventilation, Local exhaust may be required where emissions are high and air circulations low.  For concentration level exceeding 100 ppm use of air purifying respirators is recommended up to 500 ppm.

First Aid:

If a person is accidentally overcome by breathing styrene vapors, he should be removed to fresh air.  If breathing is difficult, oxygen should be administered by qualified person.

Fire Hazard:

Personal Hygiene:

Contact with skin can cause irritation.  Some persons are more allergic to styrene than others. Short time contact with skin should cause no irritation. Prolonged or repeated contact can cause Irritation/dermatitis. Moderately irritating to eyes.  Use of safety goggles is suggested. In case of skin contact, wash with soap water.  Eyes to be washed with copious stream of water, Medical attention to be sought in case of accidental ingestion. Use of protective clothing, gloves, and barrier creams is recommended.

Spillages:

Small spills can be handled by applying sand or other absorbent material. The absorbed materials to be collected and buried or incinerated. Clean residuals with hot soap water.

Solvents are not suggested for cleaning as they add up to vapor concentration and flammability risks.

Disposal of empty barrels:

Barrels can be cleaned with solvents like styrene/acetone. The washings are collected on clay, sand or other absorbent materials, which are collected into containers and destroyed through incineration/burial.