Fiberglass is made of synthetic resin as the prime basic material and usage of glass fiber or other reinforced material. They are molded into a singular material, unsaturated polyester resin, phenolic resin and epoxide resin. It is a material made from extremely fine fibers of glass and is lightweight, extremely strong, and robust material. Fiberglass is less brittle and the raw materials are less expensive. Its bulk strength and weight properties are also very favourable when compared to metals, and it can be easily formed using molding processes.
Glass fibre is manufactured from various raw materials, namely, silica sand, alumina, limestone, clay, and boric acid.
Types of Fiberglass
Different types of fiberglass are termed on the basis of raw materials used for production and they are
1. A-glass: It is very similar to window glass based on its composition.
2. C-glass: Chemical resistance is a key property of fiberglass and this type of fiberglass is renowned for its better resistance to chemical impact.
3. E-glass: This type of glass is a combination of the characteristics of C-glass with very good insulation to electricity.
4. AE-glass: It is widely known as alkali resistant glass.
5. S glass: It is also called structural glass and is known for its mechanical properties.
What is driving fiberglass manufacturing?
Construction and automobile industries have served to be major drivers of growth for the global fiberglass manufacturing. Other driving forces include the increased usage of fiberglass for electrical applications. The properties of fiberglass like electrical insulation, chemical resistance, high strength, lightweight etc has made fiberglass a top preferred choice in various industries.
Scope of fiberglass manufacturing
There is a rising demand for fiberglass globally and manufacturers in the global fiberglass market are cashing in on this demand. Stakeholders in the fiberglass industry are investing more intensively in research and development to produce higher quality fiberglass suitable for different industries. They are coming up with newer generations of fiberglass that are safer for the environment and for human usage. This new generation of fiberglass is highly upgraded and more efficient in preserving the attributes of fiberglass.
The research involved in developing newer and more effective generations of fiberglass that are safe for human and environmental usage doesn’t make fiberglass expensive.
Challenges
The biggest challenge faced by fiberglass manufacturers is to keep the retail price in the affordable range for the end consumer. Fiberglass manufacturers have succeeded in keeping the price low due to the active involvement of industry experts.
Projected Growth
According to the global fiberglass market report the fiberglass (glass fiber) market is expected to register a CAGR of 4.3 % during the forecast period (2022 – 2028).
Al Harth is a well renowned name in the UAE, with over three decades of experience in
successful completion of a plethora of projects. We have manufactured a wide range of customised fiberglass products for our clients and this experience and expertise has helped us to stand out as a leader in the GRP industry and GRP related services in the UAE.