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Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Explore frequently asked questions about Treadwell Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) products, including material properties, applications, engineering, custom fabrication, installation, maintenance, and industry compliance.
What is Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic/Polymer (FRP)?
Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP), also known as Fibre Reinforced Polymer, is a high-performance composite material made from glass fibres embedded in a resin matrix. FRP is widely used in construction, mining, marine, and infrastructure because it is:
- Lightweight yet strong
- Highly corrosion-resistant
- Impact-resistant
- Low maintenance compared to steel or timber
Its high strength-to-weight ratio makes it ideal for demanding industrial environments.
Is FRP environmentally safe? Does it leach microplastics?
Treadwell FRP products are fully inert after production, meaning they do not leach or release microplastics into the environment.
Our materials also include:
- UV inhibitors to prevent degradation
- Fire-retardant additives for safety
- Long-life formulations to reduce replacement waste
This makes FRP a durable and environmentally responsible solution for long-term infrastructure.
Where are your FRP materials sourced? And where is your operations plant located?
Treadwell primarily sources its FRP materials from the APAC region. Our Australian manufacturing and fabrication plant is located in Strathalbyn, South Australia.
How long does FRP last compared to steel or timber?
Treadwell FRP products are engineered for a design life exceeding 55 years, with many installations performing for decades with minimal maintenance. Compared to traditional materials:
- Steel can corrode and requires ongoing maintenance
- Timber is susceptible to rot and moisture damage
- FRP resists corrosion, chemicals, and environmental exposure
This results in lower lifecycle costs and improved asset longevity.
What services does Treadwell provide?
Treadwell offers a full end-to-end support, including:
- Initial consultation to understand project requirements
- Quotation and design services based on specifications
- Engineering and drawing approval before production
- Fabrication, shipping, and after-sales support to ensure seamless project execution.
What industries use Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) materials?
FRP is widely used across various industries in Australia and globally, including:
- Mining and mineral processing
- Water and wastewater treatment
- Oil, Gas and Petrochemicals
- Food and beverage
- Marine and coastal infrastructure
- Utilities and rail
- Recreational public infrastructure
What Standards does Treadwell FRP comply with?
Treadwell FRP products meet key Australian and international Standards, including:
- AS1530.3 (Fire performance of building materials)
- AS4020:2018 (Potable water safety compliance)
- BCA (Building Code of Australia) compliance
- ISO 9001: Quality Management System Certification
What is the difference between Isophthalic (ISO) and Vinylester (VE) resins?
Isophthalic (ISO) Resin
- Cost-effective
- Suitable for moderate chemical exposure
- UV- and fire-stabilised
Vinylester (VE) Resin
- Superior chemical resistance
- Higher heat tolerance
- Ideal for aggressive industrial environments
Choosing the right resin depends on your application and exposure conditions.
What colour options are available for Treadwell FRP products?
Treadwell FRP products can be custom ordered in various colours. RAL colour matching is available for project-specific requirements, ensuring flexibility in design. Do note that some resin options influence colour selection.
Is FRP fire-resistant and safe in high-risk environments?
FRP is self-extinguishing once the ignition source is removed and complies with building fire standards such as ASTM E84 and BCA requirements.
However:
- FRP should not be used for welding
- It should be protected from prolonged high heat or open flames
How does FRP’s strength compare to materials like steel, aluminium, and composite timber?
| Material | Strength | Corrosion Resistance | Weight | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FRP | High | Excellent | Lightweight | Low |
| Steel | Very High | Prone to corrosion | Heavy | High |
| Aluminium | Medium | Corrosion-resistant | Light | Medium |
| Recycled Plastic | Low | Good | Light | Medium |
| Composite Timber | Medium | Good | Medium | Medium |
| Timber | Low | Susceptible to rot | Heavy | High |
How long do Treadwell’s materials last in different applications?
Treadwell’s FRP materials are engineered for long-term durability, often exceeding 25 years of active service. With proper installation and maintenance, many products have a design life of 55+ years, ensuring long-term cost-effectiveness.
Where can I buy Treadwell’s products, and how do I place an order?
- Treadwell distributes products throughout Australia and New Zealand and has sales representatives in various locations.
- Australia – Call 1800 246 800 or email sales@treadwellgroup.com.au
- New Zealand – Call 0800 244 600 or email sales@treadwellgroup.co.nz
- You can also submit an inquiry through the Connect With Us page.
How do I check the availability of Treadwell’s products?
Product availability may vary due to demand fluctuations. For real-time stock updates, please contact:
- Australia – Call 1800 246 800
- New Zealand – Call 0800 244 600
How long does it take to receive an order from Treadwell?
Treadwell’s lead times depend on stock availability:
- Stocked items – Dispatched within 48 hours or less
- Custom designs or fabrication – Lead time varies; contact us for specific timelines.
What is the process for obtaining a design review and quote for a custom FRP profile?
For custom composite profiles, Treadwell offers design reviews and quotations:
- Step 1 – Submit your drawings and specifications for assessment.
- Step 2 – Our team evaluates the requirements based on the intended application.
- Step 3 – Receive a detailed quote based on your custom needs.
- Contact us – Call 1800 246 800 for direct consultation.
Are there design tables available for Treadwell’s structural members and gratings?
Treadwell provides detailed design tables for structural members and grating, including:
- Grating selection via the TreadSpec™ Specifier
- Treadwell ArchitEX™ Structural Product Guide for section properties and load capacities.
- In-house technical team for consultation on member selection and load calculations.
What factors should I consider when selecting a grating for my project?
Grating selection depends on load capacity, environmental conditions, and slip resistance requirements. Use the TreadSpec™ Specifier for product recommendations or consult the EX-Series® Grating Guide for more details.
- Environmental conditions – consider exposure to chemicals, moisture, UV or extreme temperatures.
- Application type – will this be for industrial, marine or public spaces?
How can I determine the chemical compatibility of FRP with different acids and alkalis?
Treadwell provides a Chemical Resistance Guide to help determine FRP compatibility with specific substances.
- Standard resins – EX-Series® Resin System range
- Custom formulations – Available for special chemical exposure requirements
- Consult our team at 1800 246 800 for expert guidance.
Is FRP resistant to impact loads and brittle fracture?
FRP has high impact resistance due to its fibrous composition, reducing the risk of brittle fracture.
- Load and Resistance Factored Design (LRFD) ensures safe structural performance.
- FEA (Finite Element Analysis) simulations can be performed for impact energy assessments.
- FRP does not propagate cracks easily, making it a durable choice for impact-prone environments.
What is the temperature resistance of Treadwell’s FRP materials?
FRP materials exhibit temperature-dependent mechanical properties:
- High temperatures – Properties start shifting above 50°C
- Cold resistance – No significant performance issues above -50°C
- Thermal activation effect – Can increase material ductility at elevated temperatures.
What are the different surface options available for Treadwell gratings?
Treadwell offers a variety of grating surface options based on project needs:
- Anti-slip surface – Provides enhanced traction and safety.
- Concave surface – Aesthetic and comfortable for pedestrian use.
- Plain surface – Ideal for specific applications requiring smooth finishes.
Can Treadwell customise pultruded profiles for corrosion and UV resistance?
Yes, Treadwell offers customised pultruded profiles with:
- Corrosion-resistant resin systems for harsh environments.
- UV inhibitors integrated into resins to prevent degradation.
- Custom surfacing veils to enhance resistance to exposure.
What colour customisation options are available for Treadwell pultruded profiles?
Treadwell offers colour customisation:
- RAL Colour Matching available for branding and project requirements.
- Standard colours available for immediate ordering.
- Fully customisable composite shapes based on project needs.
Can Treadwell assist if I have incomplete specifications for a custom FRP profile?
Yes, Treadwell’s expert team can assist in developing a profile based on:
- Partial specifications or design concepts.
- Engineering support for structural calculations.
- Material selection recommendations based on intended use.
Are Treadwell FRP profiles safe to use near transmission lines?
Yes, Treadwell FRP profiles are non-conductive and RF transparent, making them ideal for:
- Electrical transmission sites to prevent interference.
- Radio frequency-sensitive environments requiring low signal disruption.
- High-voltage areas where insulation properties are crucial.
Can water ingress be an issue when FRP is cut, and how can it be prevented?
Water ingress is not a concern unless FRP is fully submerged for long periods. To prevent osmosis:
- Seal all cut edges according to the Treadwell Fibreglass Fabrication & Repair Manual.
- Apply resin coatings to ensure long-term durability in submerged environments.
What trades or professionals are best suited for modifying Treadwell FRP products?
FRP is easy to work with and can be modified by:
- Boilermakers
- Class A fabricators
- Carpenters
- Cabinet makers
No hot work permits are required for modifications.
Should dust suppression be used when modifying FRP onsite?
Yes, dust suppression is recommended when modifying FRP onsite. Additionally, PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as masks and goggles should always be used. Refer to the Treadwell Fibreglass Fabrication & Repair Guide for proper handling procedures.
How easy is it to modify FRP onsite for installations like pipe penetrations?
Treadwell’s FRP materials are easy to modify onsite:
- No hot work permits required – FRP modifications do not necessitate welding or other heat-intensive methods, which significantly reduces safety risks and eliminates the need for additional permits.
- Can be cut and drilled without re-galvanisation – Unlike steel, FRP does not require re-galvanization after cutting or drilling, which saves both time and costs associated with additional processing.
- Lightweight and easy to handle – The lightweight properties of FRP make it easy to transport and modify on-site, enhancing overall efficiency during installation and adjustments.
What are the recommended methods for joining FRP structural sections?
FRP sections can be joined using:
- Bolting (standard fasteners for structural connections).
- Bonding (using adhesives for permanent joints).
- Splicing (for extended lengths or complex assemblies).
Consult our engineering team for optimal joining techniques.
Does Treadwell provide tooling support for fibreglass profile manufacturing?
Treadwell provides comprehensive tooling support:
- Tooling consultations for custom profiles.
- Design and material selection assistance.
- Pultrusion tooling implementation for seamless production.
Does Treadwell have ISO 9001 certification?
Yes, Treadwell maintains ISO 9001 certification, ensuring adherence to quality control and best manufacturing practices.
How does Treadwell ensure quality control in its products?
Treadwell’s quality assurance system includes:
- Compliance with Australian Standards and ISO 9001
- Strict internal quality control throughout manufacturing.
- Company-wide commitment to product excellence and efficiency.
What sustainability and environmental policies does Treadwell follow?
Yes, Treadwell follows a comprehensive environmental policy. We comply with all local, state, and federal environmental regulations.-
- View our policy here: Treadwell Environmental Policy.
- Sustainability-focused manufacturing and responsible material sourcing.
- Commitment to environmental protection and reducing carbon footprint.