TECHNICAL ARTICLE
A composite walkways provides access across tanks, equipment or other obstacles. Glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) can be suitable where low weight and resistance to corrosive environments matter. This article explains the information needed before a footbridge is designed.
What is a composite walkway?
A GRP footbridge combines load-bearing profiles, a walking surface and handrails with connections and fixings. These components form one structural system. Capacity depends on the span, bracing, joints and supports as well as the material.
Typical applications
Applications include access across aquaculture tanks, passages in water and wastewater facilities, and pedestrian connections in industrial plants. In existing facilities, low weight can be useful where lifting capacity, access or the load on the supporting structure is limited.
Properties to assess together
- Low weight: may simplify transport, lifting and assembly. Geometry and delivery format determine the practical benefit.
- Corrosion resistance: GRP does not rust like steel. The resin system and connections still need to suit the chemicals, moisture, temperature and outdoor exposure.
- Strength and stiffness: load capacity, deflection and possible vibration must be assessed for the intended use.
- Walking surface: openings, drainage, finish and cleaning affect performance. Slip resistance must suit the operating environment.
From design to installation
Glassfiber Produkter can support design and engineering, fabrication in our workshop, delivery and installation. Where appropriate, the footbridge can be delivered in sections or as components. Connections, lifting points and the assembly sequence should be established early.
What to include in an enquiry
- Distance between supports, required width and elevation.
- Pedestrian traffic, equipment and other relevant loads.
- Exposure, temperature and any fire or electrical insulation requirements.
- Connections to stairs, platforms and existing structures.
- Installation access and requirements for inspection and maintenance.
GRP can reduce corrosion-related maintenance, but the walking surface, joints and fixings still require inspection.
Explore our GRP footbridge solution →
Next step
Send dimensions, drawings or photographs and describe the intended use. We can then assess the structural and installation requirements together.