Benefits of Phenolic Grating on Offshore Oil Rigs
BENEFITS OF
PHENOLIC GRATING
ON OFFSHORE OIL RIGS
Phenolic grating is a type of composite material used on offshore oil rigs that offers many advantages over traditional metal grates. Its lightweight, non-corrosive properties make it an ideal choice for use in harsh marine environments where corrosion can be a major problem. Additionally, phenolic grating is highly slip resistant, making it much safer to walk and work on than other kinds of materials. And the most important feature is its superior fire resistance properties, which makes it the perfect choice for high-risk areas like LNG and production platforms.
With so many benefits of phenolic grating on offshore oil rigs, it is quickly becoming the go-to solution.
Phenolic FRP Benefits
Below are some features that make phenolic grating the best choice for offshore oil rigs.
- U.S. Coast Guard Approved
- Simple installation
- Advanced fire-resistant properties and reduced smoke/fume emissions
- Maintains structural integrity in high-heat environments or fires
- Ability to resist corrosion (saltwater, drilling fluids, acids, alkalis, and other chemical compounds)
- Non-conductivity
- Slip resistance, non-skid surface
- Ability to absorb impact
- High strength-to-weight ratio
- Three times lighter than comparative steel grating products
- Lower cost over the lifetime of the product than metal gratings
- Little to no maintenance
Common Uses of Phenolic Grating
FRP phenolic grating, or phenolic fiberglass grating, can function as many different parts of an oil rig’s infrastructure:
- Grating; molded and pultruded
- Emergency exit areas
- Mud pits
- Crossover platforms
- Wellhead platforms
- BOP work platforms
- Platforms
- Catwalk grating
- Mezzanines
Molded and Pultruded Phenolic Grating Options
There are two types of phenolic fiberglass grating offered by Marco Specialty Steel, molded and pultruded. Both options are both lightweight compared to steel grating, yet they have the strength and durability to easily support similar weight loads.
Molded Grating
- More flexibility, corrosion resistance, and impact resistance than pultruded
- Easy installation and maintenance
- Extreme fire resistance, low flame spread, and low smoke index rating
- Lightweight
Pultruded Grating
- Supports heavier loads and longer spans than molded
- Unidirectional strength
- Easy installation
- Heat and fire-resistant, low levels of smoke and toxic gas emissions
- Superior corrosion resistance
- Impact resistance
These designations are relative depending on the application; the appropriate selection should be made based on the weight-bearing requirements and span length needed for each project.
Phenolic Grating for Safe Walking Surfaces
Offshore oil rigs are one of the most challenging environments for workers. With the harsh weather conditions and corrosive common substances like salt water, oil spills, and crude oil, the constant walking and standing on slick surfaces cause slip-and-fall accidents. These accidents can lead to serious injuries, costing the oil industry millions of dollars in medical bills and compensation. One solution to this problem is the use of phenolic grating.
Industries Where You Can Find Phenolic Grating
- Onshore drilling
- Wastewater treatment plants
- Public structures
- Power and energy
- Refineries
- Industrial and manufacturing plants
- Mining and materials
- Marine vessels and marine wildlife sanctuaries
- Subway tunnels and other public transportation platforms
Phenolic Fabrication
Phenolic grating can be easily fabricated for offshore rigs. It is available in standard-sized panels, or we can custom cut to your specifications.
In conclusion, phenolic grating is a versatile and durable material that offers many advantages for offshore oil rigs. Its lightweight yet strong construction makes it an ideal choice for use in harsh marine environments where corrosion can be a major problem. Additionally, its superior fire resistance properties make it perfect for high-risk areas such as refineries and production platforms. Furthermore, the cost-effectiveness of using this product makes it a great option when considering working with offshore drilling operations.
With all these benefits combined, choosing to use phenolic grating is sure to provide long-lasting value on any platform or structure used by the oil industry.
Contact the FRP Experts
Marco Specialty Steel is the leading supplier for all your oil and gas industry phenolic fiberglass grating needs and supplies. We have the experience and knowledge to guide you through your entire fiberglass grating project, from selection to installation to completion. Fill out our form or give us a call today.