The Importance Of Fiber Reinforced Plastics
Why Are Fiberglass Products Perfect For Building Boats?
The fiberglass reinforced plastics industry has become more popular than ever before! Due to the incredible benefits and strength that fiberglass offers, it has become a common material choice for boats. In fact, the global recreational fiberglass boat market is predicted to have a total value as high as $9.5 billion dollars by 2024.
If you want to learn more about the benefits and features of fiber-reinforced plastic products for boating and other industries, then keep on reading!
What Is Fiberglass And Why Is It Important?
Fiberglass is one of the most durable materials that you can use for boating. Fiberglass is defined as “a strong, lightweight material that consists of thin fibers of glass that can be transformed into a woven layer or used as reinforcement.”
In turn, fiberglass reinforced plastics are plastic materials that contain fiberglass as a means of adding and reinforcing strength, durability, and elasticity to the plastic. Fiberglass and related products are important materials for a range of applications and industries.
What Can Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic Be Used For?
The uses of fiberglass reinforced plastics are truly endless! As mentioned, boatbuilding is one of the most popular uses for these materials, but there are countless other industries that also reap the benefits of making use of this material. This includes, but is not limited to:
Automobile industry
Beverage production industry
Construction and manufacturing industry
Marinas and docks industry
Paper industry
Food processing plants industry
So much more!
What Are The Benefits Of Fiberglass Products In Boats?
Overall, the benefits of using fiberglass products in boat repairs, maintenance, and boatbuilding outweigh any of the challenges associated with fiberglass! Here are the top 6 reasons why fiberglass boats are a great option for a variety of fisherman and recreational boaters:
#1: Fiberglass Boats Are Waterproof
Since boats are meant to be used in the water, it is crucial that they are waterproof and resistant to damages from moisture exposure. Fiberglass is not susceptible to water damage, which prevents the boat from corroding or rotting over time. It even allows you to let your boat sit in the water for months at a time without having to worry about damages!
#2: Fiberglass Boats Are Very Strong
Fiberglass is perfect for use on the hulls of a boat because its strength is unmatched to other similar materials. In fact, fiberglass is known to be stronger than steel but at a fraction of the weight! This lighter weight contributes to a faster and more efficient boat ride without sacrificing at all on strength and durability.
#4: Fiberglass Boats Are Quiet In The Water
Fiberglass boats do a much better job at absorbing sound than other materials, making them an optimal choice for fishermen. When a fisherman is gliding their boat through peaceful waters, the last thing that they’d want to deal with is a boat that is loud enough to scare away fish and make a ruckus. This can all be avoided with the use of a fiberglass boat!
#5: Fiberglass Boats Are Flexible
The beauty of fiberglass is that it is very malleable and flexible, which is perfect for a simple boat-building process. Boatbuilders can shape and create the boat and hulls of their dreams with more efficiency than with other materials. The more moldable and flexible the material, the easier it is for recreational and beginner builders to create more complex designs and hull shapes.
#6 Fiberglass Boats Are Aesthetically Appealing
Not only do fiberglass materials perform incredibly well for boats, but they also create a beautiful exterior appearance! As opposed to other boat types, fiberglass boats are known to look more crisp and sharp in appearance, largely due to the clean lines of their exterior. Since fiberglass is easy to maintain, it often looks more smooth, clean, and glossy as well.
The Bottom Line: Fiberglass Boats Are Better Than Wood and Aluminum Boats
As you can see, fiberglass boats are typically a better option than both an aluminum or a wooden boat. This is because fiberglass is stronger and heavier than aluminum boats and more corrosion and rot-resistant than a wooden boat.
While fiberglass materials might be more expensive than wood or aluminum upfront, the incredible perks that it offers will help boatbuilders save stress, time, and money in the long run. In terms of its strength, easy maintenance, flexibility, and speed, a fiberglass boat simply cannot be beaten!
What Products Are Found At A Fiberglass Supply Store Near Me?
The range of products found at a fiberglass supply store as extensive as Restex Composites will give you all of the tools you need to build and repair boats into the strongest vessels possible! A couple of the many incredible fiberglass-reinforced products and supplemental accessories offered at Restex Composites include:
#1: Gel Coatings
A gel coating is a liquid substance that hardens on top of fiberglass. It plays an important role in both the appearance and lasting power of a fiberglass surface. This coating is in charge of protecting the fiberglass from damages from UV rays, moisture, and scratches, while also maintaining a smooth and shiny outer appearance. There are even a variety of gel coating colors to choose from as well!
#2: Resins
Resins are responsible for holding fiberglass in place and are often layered with fiberglass cloth to create a stiffer and stronger boat. Resins are great when used as a sealant and adhesive to repair fiberglass boats and prevent unnecessary damages, corrosion, and wear and tear. A few of the resin varieties that are great for boat repairs found at Restex Composites include:
Vinyl Ester Resin
Polyester Resin
Wax Resin
Laminating Resin
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