Polymer composites are a combination of a polymer matrix reinforced with one or more engineered or natural reinforcing materials. FRP is one such polymer composite, in which fiberglass fibers are aligned together and bonded to a resin matrix. Here we outline the benefits of polymer composites and some of their many common uses and applications.

Polymer Composites in the Aerospace Industry

Polymer composites are well suited to use in aviation and aerospace applications as they are exceptionally strong and lightweight. They are often used to make wings, bulkheads, and other civilian and military aerospace applications.

Appliances

Polymer composites are also used for a range of appliances and business equipment such as handles, trims, power tool bodies, and panels. They are also used for dishwasher components, refrigerators, and many other household appliances.

Construction and Infrastructure

Polymer composites are starting to find more and more uses in civil infrastructure applications such as roads, bridges, and barriers. They are replacing traditional materials for many architectural components such as roofs, doors, frames, and wall panels.

Corrosive/Marine Environments

Polymer composites are well suited to applications that have corrosive environments including chemical plants, oil and gas refineries, and wastewater facilities. This is because polymer composites are much more resistant to corrosion than other, traditional materials. They are also extremely lightweight, making them suitable for transportation to applications out at sea, and in military and commercial ships. The resistance of the composites to saltwater means that they are not subject to rust when in close contact with the sea.

Electrical Applications

Most polymer composites have high electrical resistance and strong dielectric properties. This means that they are well suited to electrical applications such as pole line hardware, sub-station equipment, microwave antenna structures, electrical system components, and more.

Many polymer composites are also generally transparent to electromagnetic and radio frequency interference. They possess low electrical and thermal conductivity, too, meaning they are much safer to use in the field.

Why Choose Polymer Composites?

Not only are polymer composites corrosion-resistant and extremely strong, but they also require little maintenance. Whilst there may in some cases be a higher initial cost with polymer composites than with some other materials, because they are easier to install, maintain, and do not require frequent replacement, they work out more cost-effective over time.

Want to Learn More?

If you want to learn more about how polymer composites can benefit your application, why not get in touch with the team at Strongwell? We are the world’s leading and largest manufacturer of FRP using the pultrusion process, so we are well placed to help with your needs.

To find out more, get in touch with the team at Strongwell today.