In 1994, Strongwell’s vinyl ester pultruded grating, DURAGRID® VE, was installed on a large metropolitan bridge in Camden. New Jersey. A sample from this installation measuring 46" (117 cm) long was recently studied for durability, strength, and stiffness. Testing was carried out on a randomly selected piece of I4000-1" (2.54 cm) panel.
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Testing
The panel was subjected to a three-point bend test, to failure, on a span measuring 42" (107 cm). The panel was tested again to measure deflection and residual strength.
At the test peak load of 6,527 lb (2,961 kg), the panel failed but was retested to determine the peak load that would cause the industry recognized ¼" (0.635 mm) deflection. It was found that this industry-recognized deflection occurred at 55 lb. When a 200 lb (90.7 kg) load was applied, the deflection was 1.30" (3.3 mm), but the panel supported the weight.
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| Test Results |
| Test Peak Load |
6,527 lb |
2,961 kg |
| Peak Load (Load Table*) |
4,947 lb |
2,244 kg |
| Test Modulus |
4.94 Mpsi |
3.40 x 104 MPa |
| Modulus (Load Table*) |
4.88 Mpsi |
3.36 x 104 MPa |
* Load table typical values generated from test data of current product.
Conclusion
Strongwell’s products including DURAGRID® VE pultruded grating are produced to conform with quality standards, ensuring that they satisfy or surpass published load table values during production. This durability study shows that the strength of DURAGRID® VE pultruded grating can satisfy and surpass the industry-recognized in-service design loads for a service life exceeding 20 years.
The measured stiffness reductions are expected to be negligible. DURAGRID® VE pultruded grating is structural substitute for aluminum and steel, particularly when long-life durability is a concern. The material is lighter in weight, needs fewer tools for fabrication, and requires less maintenance. Other benefits include measured strength retention and fire resistance at high service temperatures, and measured impact strength.
The DURAGRID® VE pultruded grating is the result of Strongwell’s efforts to enhance product strength, impact resistance, and durability.
This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by Strongwell Corporation.
For more information on this source, please visit Strongwell Corporation.