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Structural Fiberglass Square Tube, Fiberglass Profiles

Selecting Fiberglass Square Tube from CBRO Wide Range of Styles and Sizes to Meet Your Exact Requirements.

Fiberglass Square Tube offering a robust, corrosion-resistant structural shape ideal for various applications. This material outperforms traditional options like steel and stainless steel tubes, particularly in corrosive environments. The production process involves pultrusion, where fiberglass unidirectional roving combined with a veil mat is pulled through a resin and pigment bath, then heated and cured.This method ensures maximum strength and durability. Fiberglass Square Tube is available in over 100 standard shapes, and when combined with fiber glass duct board, each features a surface veil that protects against glass fibers penetrating the resin surface in service, enhancing both corrosion and UV resistance.

Available in both square and round profiles, these tubes come in wall thicknesses ranging from 1/8″ to 3/8″, with various resin systems and colors to suit different applications and aesthetic requirements. The composite nature of the material means that unlike metals, its properties can vary depending on the fiber orientation, providing tailored performance characteristics. This versatility, coupled with ease of installation and minimal maintenance needs, makes Fiberglass Square Tube a superior choice for industries like construction, marine, and industrial manufacturing, where longevity and reliability are critical.

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Fiberglass Square Tube Sizes

Standard Sizes Available

Fiberglass Square Tube is available in a range of standard sizes to accommodate various structural and industrial needs. Common dimensions include 4×4, 2×2, and 4×8, which are widely used in construction, framing, and support structures. These standard sizes ensure compatibility with existing designs and make it easier to integrate Fiberglass Square Tube into projects requiring uniformity and consistency.

Custom Sizing Options

For projects with unique requirements, custom sizing options are also available. CBRO Fiberglass manufacturer offers the flexibility to produce Fiberglass Square Tube in non-standard dimensions, tailored to meet specific load-bearing capacities, design constraints, or environmental conditions. This customization ensures that the Fiberglass Square Tube fits perfectly within the intended application, providing optimal performance and efficiency.

Comparison with Other Materials

When comparing Fiberglass Square Tube sizes with those made of steel or aluminum, one notable advantage is the lightweight nature of fiberglass. While the dimensions may be similar, Fiberglass Square Tube is significantly lighter, making it easier to handle and install without compromising strength. Additionally, Fiberglass Square Tube does not corrode like steel, nor does it conduct electricity like aluminum, offering added benefits depending on the application.

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Fiberglass Square Tube Typical Properties

Fiberglass square tubes are known for their unique combination of strength, durability, and resistance to various environmental factors. Here’s an overview of the typical properties of fiberglass square tubes, focusing on key mechanical, thermal, electrical, and chemical characteristics.

1. Mechanical Properties

  • Tensile Strength: ~30,000 – 60,000 psi (depending on resin and reinforcement used)

    • Fiberglass square tubes are designed to handle significant tensile loads, making them suitable for structural applications that require durability and resistance to stretching forces.

  • Flexural Strength: ~30,000 – 50,000 psi

    • High flexural strength ensures that these tubes can withstand bending forces without breaking, which is ideal for frameworks and structures under stress.

  • Compressive Strength: ~30,000 – 50,000 psi

    • The tubes are capable of withstanding high compressive loads, allowing them to be used in load-bearing applications.

  • Modulus of Elasticity: ~2.5 – 3.5 million psi

    • This property shows the material’s stiffness, indicating that fiberglass square tubes have moderate flexibility, allowing them to handle stress without deforming permanently.

  • Impact Strength: ~25 – 35 ft-lb/in (notched Izod)

    • Fiberglass tubes can resist impact to a moderate degree, ensuring durability in environments where they might be subject to accidental bumps or hits.

2. Thermal Properties

  • Thermal Expansion Coefficient: ~5 – 7 x 10⁻⁶ in/in/°F

    • Fiberglass has a low thermal expansion rate, meaning that it experiences minimal size changes with temperature variations, ensuring structural stability.

  • Thermal Conductivity: ~0.2 – 0.3 W/mK

    • Fiberglass has low thermal conductivity, making it a poor conductor of heat. This is beneficial for applications where temperature stability is crucial or where insulation is desired.

  • Operating Temperature Range: ~ -40°F to 200°F (and higher for special formulations)

    • Fiberglass square tubes can perform reliably across a wide temperature range, although they may soften or degrade under extreme heat.

3. Electrical Properties

  • Dielectric Strength: ~400 – 500 volts/mil

    • Fiberglass square tubes are excellent insulators, which makes them suitable for applications near electrical systems or where electrical isolation is required.

  • Dielectric Constant: ~4.5 – 5.5 (at 60 Hz)

    • This indicates good electrical insulating capability, contributing to fiberglass’s effectiveness as a barrier for electrical components.

  • Surface Resistivity: ~10¹² – 10¹⁴ ohms

    • The high surface resistivity makes fiberglass tubes resistant to electrical conductivity on the surface, helping prevent stray currents or electrical arcing.

4. Chemical Resistance

  • Corrosion Resistance: Excellent resistance to moisture, saltwater, and most chemicals

    • Fiberglass tubes are naturally resistant to corrosion and degradation from exposure to chemicals, moisture, and saltwater, making them ideal for outdoor, industrial, and marine applications.

  • UV Resistance: Good with UV-resistant coatings

    • Fiberglass is generally resistant to UV radiation when coated, allowing it to be used outdoors. Some formulations may include UV stabilizers to further enhance UV resistance.

5. Other Properties

  • Density: ~120 – 130 lb/ft³

    • Fiberglass square tubes are much lighter than metals like steel or aluminum, making them easy to handle and install while offering similar structural strength in many applications.

  • Fire Resistance: Can be flame retardant with additives

    • While fiberglass itself is generally non-combustible, additives can further enhance its fire resistance, making it suitable for applications where fire safety is a concern.

Fiberglass square tubes exhibit a unique balance of high tensile, flexural, and compressive strengths along with lightweight properties, making them highly versatile for various structural applications. Their resistance to corrosion, UV radiation, and moisture ensures long-lasting performance, while their low thermal expansion and electrical insulation properties make them ideal for use near electrical equipment or in temperature-sensitive environments. This combination of properties makes fiberglass square tubes a highly reliable, cost-effective alternative to traditional materials in many applications.

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Fiberglass Square Tube Typical Properties

Structural Fiberglass Square Tube & Round Tube

Structural fiberglass square and round tubes are essential building components widely used in construction, engineering, and industrial applications. These fiberglass tubes are made from a composite of glass fibers and resin, which gives them unique properties, such as high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and electrical insulation, making them ideal for a variety of structural uses. Here’s a breakdown of their characteristics, applications, and advantages:

Fiberglass Square Tube

  • Description: Structural fiberglass square tubes have a hollow square cross-section, making them ideal for structural applications where rigidity and load-bearing capacity are essential. The square shape provides uniform strength on all sides, offering stability for vertical and horizontal applications.
  • Dimensions and Sizes: Square tubes are available in various sizes, typically ranging from 1″ x 1″ to 8″ x 8″ or larger, with varying wall thicknesses to support different load requirements.
  • Key Properties:
    • High rigidity and bending resistance, especially when forces are applied perpendicularly to the tube’s flat faces.
    • Uniform strength across each side, providing reliable support for frameworks and structures.
  • Applications:
    • Construction and Frameworks: Used in the construction of structural frameworks, platforms, and guardrails where high strength and lightweight materials are essential.
    • Utility Structures: Suitable for utility poles, cross bracing, and structural supports in environments exposed to chemicals, moisture, or electrical hazards.
    • Railings and Safety Barriers: Frequently used in industrial railings and safety barriers, particularly in corrosive environments or locations with exposure to electricity.

Fiberglass Round Tube

  • Description: Structural fiberglass round tubes are hollow with a circular cross-section, providing even strength distribution across all directions. They are particularly effective in applications requiring internal pressure resistance or torsional strength.
  • Dimensions and Sizes: Available in a range of diameters, from as small as 1/2″ to larger diameters of 12″ or more, with various wall thicknesses to match specific structural needs.
  • Key Properties:
    • Excellent torsional strength and resistance to buckling or bending, especially under internal or radial pressure.
    • Greater ability to withstand twisting forces compared to square tubes, making them ideal for applications where rotational forces are expected.
  • Applications:
    • Fluid Transport and Piping: Commonly used as piping for water or fluid transport systems due to their corrosion resistance and durability.
    • Pole and Mast Structures: Used in utility poles, flagpoles, and structural masts in outdoor or corrosive environments.
    • Marine Applications: Ideal for dock supports, boat rails, and other marine structures where constant exposure to saltwater requires a non-corrosive material.

Advantages of Structural Fiberglass Tubes (Square and Round)

  • Corrosion Resistance: Both square and round fiberglass tubes are resistant to corrosion from chemicals, water, and salt, making them ideal for outdoor and industrial applications.
  • Lightweight yet Strong: Fiberglass has a high strength-to-weight ratio, so these tubes offer substantial load-bearing capacity without the weight associated with metals.
  • Electrical and Thermal Insulation: Fiberglass is a non-conductor of electricity, which makes these tubes suitable for applications near electrical equipment. They also have low thermal conductivity, offering temperature stability.
  • Minimal Maintenance: Fiberglass structures require less maintenance than metal alternatives, reducing long-term maintenance costs and improving durability.
  • Easy Installation and Fabrication: Lightweight and easy to cut or drill, fiberglass tubes are easy to install and modify on-site, reducing labor costs and installation time.

Choosing Between Square and Round Tubes

  • Square Tubes are best when stability in a fixed direction and easy assembly with flat surfaces are needed. They are often chosen for frames, structural supports, and applications requiring rigidity and load-bearing strength in specific orientations.
  • Round Tubes are ideal for situations needing even strength distribution, resistance to internal pressures, and rotational force. They are often preferred for poles, pipes, and any application subject to torsion or bending in multiple directions.

Both structural fiberglass square and round tubes offer lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and electrically insulating solutions for demanding environments. Square tubes excel in frameworks and fixed structures due to their rigid shape, while round tubes are suitable for applications requiring uniform strength and torsional resistance, such as fluid transport, poles, and masts. By selecting the right shape and dimensions, fiberglass tubes provide a versatile, durable, and cost-effective alternative to traditional materials in structural and industrial applications.

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Structural Fiberglass Square Tube & Round Tube

Large Diameter Fiberglass Tube

What Is a Large Diameter Fiberglass Tube?

A large diameter fiberglass tube is a type of reinforced plastic tubing specifically designed for applications requiring wider dimensions, and it can be effectively used alongside fiberglass reinforced plastic decking for enhanced structural support. These tubes are made from fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP), which provides exceptional strength and durability while maintaining a lightweight structure. Although not a Fiberglass Square Tube, large diameter fiberglass pipe share many of the same benefits, such as resistance to corrosion, chemicals, and harsh environmental conditions. They are commonly used in projects that require robust materials capable of handling significant loads and exposure to extreme conditions.

Applications and Benefits

Large diameter fiberglass tubes are essential in various industries, particularly in construction and marine environments. In construction, they are often used for structural supports, columns, and frameworks where a wide, strong tube is necessary. Their lightweight nature compared to steel makes them easier to handle and install, reducing labor costs and time. In marine applications, large diameter fiberglass tubes are favored for their excellent resistance to saltwater corrosion, making them ideal for use in seawater pipelines, underwater structures, and marine terminals. The non-conductive properties of fiberglass also make these tubes suitable for use in electrical insulation applications, providing both safety and performance.

Applications of Large Diameter Fiberglass Tubes

  1. Industrial Piping Systems:

    • Large fiberglass tubes are ideal for industrial piping systems in chemical processing, water treatment, and wastewater management. Their corrosion resistance makes them especially useful for transporting corrosive chemicals, wastewater, and other aggressive substances.

  2. Marine and Offshore Structures:

    • In marine environments, where exposure to saltwater leads to rapid metal corrosion, large diameter fiberglass tubes are used for pilings, seawalls, and other structural supports. They’re also used on offshore oil and gas platforms as protective casings and support structures.

  3. Cooling Water Systems:

    • Power plants, refineries, and other facilities use large fiberglass tubes in cooling systems due to their resistance to chemicals and water corrosion. These systems require reliable materials to prevent breakdown and ensure consistent operation.

  4. Infrastructure and Construction:

    • In civil engineering and construction, fiberglass tubes are often used for structural supports, utility poles, and bridge components. They offer strength with less weight, making them easier and less expensive to install, especially in remote or hard-to-access areas.

  5. Telecommunications and Electrical Conduit:

    • For telecommunications, electrical, and fiber-optic cable conduit, large fiberglass tubes are commonly used to provide durable, protective casing for cables. They’re also suitable for underground applications, where moisture and corrosion can be a problem for traditional materials.

  6. Municipal and Agricultural Water Systems:

    • Fiberglass tubes are often used in municipal water supply, irrigation, and drainage systems. Their lightweight and durable nature makes them easy to install in rural or remote agricultural locations, providing a long-lasting solution for water transport.

Benefits of Large Diameter Fiberglass Tubes

  1. Corrosion Resistance:

    • Fiberglass tubes are naturally resistant to corrosion from chemicals, saltwater, and UV exposure. This makes them ideal for applications in harsh environments where metal pipes would degrade quickly, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and replacement.

  2. Lightweight:

    • Fiberglass tubes are significantly lighter than metals like steel, which simplifies transportation and installation. The reduced weight also decreases the load on structures, making them suitable for applications where minimizing weight is essential, like bridges or raised platforms.

  3. High Strength-to-Weight Ratio:

    • Despite being lightweight, fiberglass tubes offer high tensile and compressive strength, making them reliable structural elements in various industrial and civil applications. This high strength-to-weight ratio provides an efficient balance between durability and load-bearing capacity.

  4. Low Thermal and Electrical Conductivity:

    • Fiberglass is a poor conductor of electricity and heat, which makes fiberglass tubes useful in applications requiring insulation. For example, in electrical conduit applications, they reduce the risk of electrical interference or shock, and in cooling systems, they maintain stable temperatures.

  5. Longevity and Low Maintenance:

    • Fiberglass tubes are extremely durable and require minimal maintenance, thanks to their resistance to environmental damage, corrosion, and degradation. This longevity results in lower long-term costs, making fiberglass an economical choice for infrastructure projects.

  6. Environmental Benefits:

    • Fiberglass production consumes less energy compared to metals, and the durability of fiberglass reduces waste over time. Additionally, fiberglass can be manufactured in custom dimensions, minimizing the need for additional materials, waste, and machining.

  7. Customizability:

    • Large diameter fiberglass tubes are available in various thicknesses, lengths, and diameters to suit specific needs. They can also be produced with additional coatings or additives for enhanced UV resistance, fire retardance, or strength.

Large diameter fiberglass tubes provide a versatile and reliable solution for many industries, particularly in challenging environments where traditional materials are prone to corrosion or damage. Their combination of strength, low weight, and durability makes them a popular choice for industrial, marine, infrastructure, and agricultural applications.

Availability and Customization

Large diameter fiberglass tubes are available from many of the same suppliers that offer Fiberglass Square Tube products. Companies like CBRO Fiberglass is known for their extensive range of FRP products, including large diameter options. These tubes can often be customized to meet specific project requirements, including adjustments in diameter, wall thickness, and length. Customization ensures that the tubes perfectly fit the intended application, whether for specialized industrial uses or unique construction needs.

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Common Applications of Fiberglass Square Tube

Common Applications of Fiberglass Square Tube

Fiberglass square tubes are used in numerous industries due to their unique properties, including high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and electrical insulation. Here are some of the most common applications of fiberglass square tubes:

1. Construction and Structural Frameworks

  • Railings and Guardrails: Fiberglass square tubes are often used in industrial and commercial railing systems due to their rigidity, corrosion resistance, and lightweight nature.
  • Building Frameworks: These tubes provide structural support in commercial and industrial buildings, particularly in corrosive or moisture-prone environments where metal would quickly degrade.
  • Platforms and Walkways: Common in manufacturing plants, walkways and platforms made from fiberglass square tubes are durable and safe, offering a slip-resistant, corrosion-resistant option for industrial settings.

2. Electrical Infrastructure

  • Cable Trays and Conduits: Fiberglass square tubes are used to support electrical cables and act as conduits, especially in areas where electrical insulation is crucial.
  • Electrical Enclosures: Due to their non-conductive properties, fiberglass square tubes are ideal for creating enclosures that house sensitive electrical equipment, providing protection without the risk of electrical interference.

3. Marine and Coastal Applications

  • Dock Supports and Railing Systems: Resistant to saltwater corrosion, fiberglass square tubes are widely used in marinas, docks, and coastal structures to build reliable, durable railings and supports.
  • Piers and Bridges: Fiberglass is highly durable in marine environments, making it an ideal choice for pier or bridge frameworks that must withstand constant exposure to saltwater and UV radiation.

4. Chemical and Wastewater Treatment Plants

  • Corrosive Environments: In chemical processing plants and wastewater treatment facilities, fiberglass square tubes provide a corrosion-resistant alternative to metal supports, ensuring longevity and reduced maintenance.
  • Pipe and Duct Supports: Fiberglass square tubes are often used as supports for pipes carrying corrosive fluids or gases, especially where exposure to chemicals would corrode other materials.

5. Agricultural and Outdoor Structures

  • Greenhouse Frames: Fiberglass square tubes are often used to build greenhouse structures because they are lightweight, weather-resistant, and non-corrosive, ideal for withstanding humid or chemically treated environments.
  • Animal Enclosures: Used for fencing or support structures, fiberglass square tubes can withstand exposure to elements without rusting, making them ideal for livestock or poultry enclosures.

6. Transportation Infrastructure

  • Bridge Components: Fiberglass tubes are increasingly being used in bridge construction for components like railings, decks, and structural supports due to their durability, low maintenance, and resistance to weather and corrosion.
  • Signage and Traffic Control Structures: Square tubes are used to support traffic signs and signals, providing a durable, non-corrosive option for outdoor installations.

7. Telecommunication and Utility Poles

  • Antenna and Satellite Supports: Fiberglass’s non-conductive properties make it ideal for use as antenna or satellite supports, where electrical interference could impact signal quality.
  • Utility Poles and Cross-Arms: In remote and corrosive environments, fiberglass square tubes serve as cross-arms for utility poles, offering lightweight, corrosion-resistant support for electrical or communication lines.

8. Recreational and Sporting Equipment

  • Bleacher and Stadium Seating Frames: Due to its lightweight and rust-resistant properties, fiberglass is used for stadium seating frames and supports in outdoor sporting arenas.
  • Boat and RV Frames: Fiberglass square tubes are common in the marine and recreational vehicle industry for frames and structural supports that must resist moisture and weather exposure.

9. HVAC and Ventilation Systems

  • Support Frameworks: Fiberglass tubes provide support for HVAC ductwork and piping, particularly in environments where exposure to moisture or chemicals is expected.
  • Air Handling Units: Used in air handling systems where fiberglass’s corrosion resistance and low thermal conductivity enhance durability and efficiency in humid or corrosive conditions.

Summary

Fiberglass square tubes are a versatile solution across multiple industries, providing a lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and durable material for structural applications in demanding environments. Their applications span construction, marine, electrical, industrial, and recreational uses, making them a popular choice wherever traditional materials may fall short due to exposure to moisture, chemicals, or electrical currents.

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    FAQs about Fiberglass Square Tube

    What is fiberglass tubing used for?

    Fiberglass tubing is a versatile material widely used across various industries due to its exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion and chemicals. It is commonly employed in applications where lightweight yet strong materials are needed. For example, in the construction industry, fiberglass tubing is used for structural supports, handrails, and safety barriers. In the marine industry, it is favored for its resistance to saltwater, making it ideal for boat components, dock structures, and underwater pipes. Fiberglass tubing is also used in electrical insulation, as it is non-conductive and can protect against electrical hazards. Additionally, it finds applications in the aerospace, automotive, and industrial sectors, where its ability to withstand harsh environments without degrading is crucial. Overall, fiberglass tubing is chosen for projects that require a material capable of enduring extreme conditions while maintaining structural integrity and performance.

    How strong is fiberglass tubing?

    Fiberglass tubing is remarkably strong, especially when considering its lightweight nature. The strength of fiberglass tubing comes from the combination of fiberglass reinforcement and resin, creating a composite material with a high strength-to-weight ratio. This means that fiberglass tubing can support significant loads without adding much weight, making it an excellent choice for applications where reducing weight is essential without sacrificing strength. The tensile strength of fiberglass tubing can range from 30,000 to 50,000 psi, depending on the specific formulation and construction. This makes it comparable to or even stronger than some metals, such as aluminum, while also being much lighter. In structural applications, fiberglass tubing can withstand high stresses and impacts, providing reliable performance over a long lifespan. Its ability to resist corrosion, moisture, and extreme temperatures further enhances its strength, ensuring that it remains durable in challenging environments where traditional materials might fail.

    What is stronger, square tubing or rectangular tubing?

    The strength of square tubing versus rectangular tubing depends on the specific application and the direction of the load. Square tubing is generally stronger in applications where forces are evenly distributed across all sides, as its uniform shape provides consistent resistance in all directions. This makes square tubing ideal for structural applications where the load is distributed evenly, such as in framework construction, columns, and supports. On the other hand, rectangular tubing can be stronger in situations where the load is applied more heavily in one direction. The longer sides of the rectangle provide additional surface area, which can distribute the load more effectively in a specific direction, making it ideal for applications like beams or in situations where the tubing needs to span a longer distance without support. In summary, square tubing offers balanced strength for multi-directional loads, while rectangular tubing may offer superior strength in a specific direction, depending on the design requirements of the project.

    What is the purpose of square tubing?

    Square tubing is a versatile and widely used structural material, valued for its strength, durability, and ease of use. The primary purpose of square tubing is to provide structural support in a variety of applications. Its uniform shape allows it to bear loads evenly across all sides, making it ideal for constructing frameworks, columns, and other structures that require balanced strength. Square tubing is commonly used in construction for building supports, railings, and scaffolding due to its ability to withstand significant stress and impact without bending or breaking. It is also used in the manufacturing of machinery, where precise, stable, and durable components are required. Additionally, square tubing is favored in the automotive industry for roll cages and chassis, where its strength helps protect occupants in the event of a collision. The square shape also makes it easy to connect and weld, allowing for straightforward assembly and integration into various projects. Square tubing serves as a reliable and adaptable material in any application that demands structural integrity and longevity.

    What is stronger, pipe or square tubing?

    Square tubing is generally stronger in terms of bending and torsional resistance compared to round pipe when force is applied on its flat sides. However, round pipe is often stronger when resisting internal pressure and forces uniformly applied in all directions, such as in fluid transport applications. The best choice depends on the specific application and load requirements.

    What size are FRP tubes?

    Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) tubes come in a variety of sizes, typically ranging in outer diameters from 1/2 inch to 36 inches or more. Common wall thicknesses range from 0.125 inches to several inches, depending on the required strength and application. Custom sizes are also available to suit specific project needs.

    How do you cut a fiberglass tube?

    Cutting a fiberglass tube is best done with a fine-tooth carbide saw blade or a diamond-coated blade, both of which minimize chipping. A rotary tool or angle grinder with the appropriate blade can also work well. Safety precautions, such as wearing protective eyewear, a mask, and gloves, are essential due to the dust and small fiberglass particles created.

    What are the advantages of fiberglass pipes?

    Fiberglass pipes are corrosion-resistant, lightweight, and durable, making them suitable for transporting corrosive fluids or operating in harsh environments. They also offer a high strength-to-weight ratio, low maintenance requirements, and excellent longevity, which makes them a cost-effective choice for many industries.

    Where is fiberglass pipe used?

    Fiberglass pipes are commonly used in industries like chemical processing, water treatment, oil and gas, and marine applications. They are ideal for environments where corrosion resistance and durability are essential, such as in wastewater facilities, desalination plants, offshore platforms, and cooling water systems.