What is The Difference Between GRP and FRP Water Tank?

Explanation on the Panel Shape

We have two types of GRP water tank,one is traditional China GRP sectional water tank(Initially introduced from Japan with 45 degree flange bar and 90 degree flange bar),one is Korea GRP sectional water tank(each panel has 90 degree flange bars only).

Some people call Korea GRP sectional water tank as GRP water tank and call China GRP  sectional water tank either GRP  water tank or FRP water tank.

To be honest they are same products, both are short form based on  Fiber Glass Reinforcement Plastic Water Tank.

Korea GRP panel

Korea GRP Water Tank Panel

China FRP water tank panel

China FRP Water Tank Panel

Explanation On Other Aspects

GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) and FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) panel water tanks are both widely used for water storage. Although these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, there are subtle differences in terminology and manufacturing that set them apart. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Material Composition

  • GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic):
    • Specifically emphasizes the use of glass fibers for reinforcement.
    • The resin matrix is typically polyester, vinyl ester, or epoxy.
    • The focus is on glass fibers as the reinforcing material.
  • FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic):
    • A broader term encompassing any fiber-reinforced plastic, not limited to glass fibers.
    • May use other fibers like carbon, aramid, or basalt in addition to glass.
    • Often used synonymously with GRP in water tank contexts, as glass fiber is the most common reinforcement for such applications.

2. Strength and Durability

  • GRP Tanks:
    • High strength-to-weight ratio due to the use of glass fibers.
    • Excellent resistance to water and environmental factors.
    • Slightly better in thermal insulation properties compared to FRP with other fiber reinforcements.
  • FRP Tanks:
    • Properties depend on the type of fibers used (e.g., carbon fibers offer higher tensile strength but may be more expensive).
    • When glass fibers are used, the performance is nearly identical to GRP.

3. Application Context

  • GRP Tanks:
    • Preferred terminology in industries and regions focusing specifically on glass reinforcement.
    • Commonly used for potable water storage, firefighting water systems, and rainwater harvesting.
  • FRP Tanks:
    • Broader applications due to varying reinforcements.
    • Used in more diverse environments, such as chemical storage, industrial applications, and specialized settings where specific fiber properties are needed.

4. Manufacturing Process

  • GRP Tanks:
    • Panels are made by molding glass fibers with resin.
    • Emphasis on glass reinforcement in the production process.
  • FRP Tanks:
    • Manufacturing process is similar when glass fibers are used.
    • Allows for more flexibility in fiber selection depending on the application.

5. Terminology Usage by Region

  • In Europe and Asia, GRP is more commonly used for water tanks.
  • In the U.S. and some other regions, FRP might be the preferred term, even for products made primarily with glass fibers.

6. Cost

  • GRP Tanks: Generally more uniform in cost due to standardized glass fiber reinforcement.
  • FRP Tanks: Costs may vary more widely depending on the type of fibers used.

Conclusion

For practical purposes, if you’re comparing GRP and FRP water tanks made with glass fibers, their properties and applications are nearly identical. The choice of term often depends on the regional or industry-specific usage. If other fiber types are used in FRP, then the performance, durability, and cost may differ.