FAQs
What is pultrusion?
Pultrusion is a continuous manufacturing process where fibres and resin are pulled through a hot shaping die, then cooled at the other end. Although a range of fibre types & matrix resins can be used to produce composites, the majority of applications employ fibreglass (using polyester resins) or carbon fibre (using vinylester resins).
What colours can I have?
GRP:
White or black GRP products are generally kept in stock (up to 10mm diameter for rods and up to 12.7mm for tubes in both colours). The larger sizes of both products are available in white. Other colours can be produced in GRP, with a minimum order value per product of £500 excluding VAT.
Carbon:
Is always black.
How do I cut it?
For frequent users a diamond blade circular saw is best. For small quantities use a junior hacksaw or a fine-toothed hacksaw blade (32 tpi). Tip: When using a hacksaw, tape around at the point to be cut and cut through the tape. This will help to prevent fraying.
What size do I need?
Typical diameters our customers use are:
- Costumes (eg hoops for crinolines & carnival costumes) - GRP rods between 1.5mm - 6mm, mainly 3mm-5mm.
- Sculptural structures, theatrical props and carnival floats with larger spans - rod and tube diameters from 6mm - 12.7mm.
- Kites - carbon rods 1.5mm - 6mm, carbon tubes from 5.5mm OD - 10mm OD. GRP in similar sizes.
- Live role play (LRP) weapons -
GRP rod: 9.5mm, 10mm, 12mm, 12.7mm
Carbon rod: 8mm, 12mm, 15mm.
GRP tube: 19mm x 12.7mm, 25.4mm x 19.4mm
GRP bar: 6.35mm x 6.35mm, 25.4mm x 4.76mm, 32mm x 3mm, 38mm x 3mm.
How long will it take for me to get my goods?
Goods are despatched every weekday (Monday - Friday). We aim to despatch your order within 3 working days). Please supply us with a telephone number to contact you if any goods are out of stock.
How are the goods sent?
Great Britain and Northern Ireland - we use a national carrier network.
Other areas - please contact us for a quotation on 01923 726952.
How much will it cost to send?
Mainland England and Wales, up to 15kg - £25.00 exc VAT. Each additional kg @ 80p/kg.
Other areas - please contact us for a quotation on 01923 726952.
What are GRP and FRP?
GRP is glassfibre reinforced plastic, FRP is fibre reinforced plastic. They are the same product, just different terminology. FRP is primarily used as the abbreviation in the USA.
What is the difference between GRP & carbon?
GRP is strong, versatile, lightweight and economic. Carbon fibre is lighter and stiffer than GRP of the same size. All pultruded products have a memory - ie when bent and released, they will return to their original shape.
Do I need a rod or a tube?
Rods are more flexible, will withstand greater bending and are crush resistant. Tubes are stiffer and lighter, and best used for applications where little curvature is required.