Product Overview
Fiberglass C-channels are pultruded FRP structural profiles used in applications where corrosion resistance, light weight, or electrical insulation is required. They are manufactured by drawing continuous glass fiber rovings through a thermoset resin bath and a heated pultrusion die to form a uniform C-shaped cross-section. IncomePultrusion produces these profiles on controlled pultrusion machines as part of our wider range of pultruded FRP profiles. For available dimensions, see our fiberglass channel series page.
Common applications: Chemical plants, marine structures, electrical installations, and corrosive environments requiring lightweight, non-conductive structural solutions.
Key Engineering Advantages
- Lightweight – Approximately 70-80% lighter than steel for equal cross-section, which can reduce structural loads and installation effort
- Corrosion resistance – Resists moisture, salts, and many industrial chemicals better than unprotected steel
- Electrical non-conductivity – Suitable for electrical and utility applications where insulation is required
- Non-magnetic – Can be used near sensitive electronic equipment
- Long service potential – When properly specified and installed, FRP C-channels can provide extended service life in harsh environments
Technical Specifications
Mechanical Properties (Typical Values)
| Property | Typical Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 25,000-30,000 PSI | ASTM D638 |
| Flexural Strength | 20,000-25,000 PSI | ASTM D790 |
| Flexural Modulus | 1.5-2.0 x 10^6 PSI | ASTM D790 |
| Compressive Strength | 15,000-20,000 PSI | ASTM D695 |
| Impact Resistance | 8-15 ft-lbs/in | ASTM D256 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.5-1.9 | ASTM D792 |
Values are typical ranges for general-purpose pultruded FRP. Confirm material properties for your specific resin system and application.
Physical & Thermal Properties
| Property | Value | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Water Absorption | <0.5% by weight | ASTM D570 |
| Thermal Expansion | 1.3 x 10^-5 in/in/degree F | ASTM D696 |
| Service Temperature | -40 degree F to 180 degree F | Continuous Use |
| Thermal Conductivity | 0.25-0.35 BTU/hr/ft/degree F | ASTM C177 |
| Dielectric Strength | 15+ kV/mm | ASTM D149 |
Fire Safety
- Fire-retardant resin formulations are available upon request
- Ask for applicable ASTM E84, UL94, or FM 4910 test data for the specific product you need
Available Dimensions
Standard Cross-Sections
| Height x Width x Thickness | Weight (lbs/ft) | Moment of Inertia (in^4) |
|---|---|---|
| 2″ x 1″ x 1/8″ | 0.28 | 0.052 |
| 3″ x 1.5″ x 1/8″ | 0.45 | 0.158 |
| 4″ x 1.5″ x 1/4″ | 0.85 | 0.401 |
| 6″ x 1.625″ x 1/4″ | 1.15 | 1.245 |
| 8″ x 2″ x 3/8″ | 2.20 | 3.125 |
| 10″ x 2.5″ x 3/8″ | 2.85 | 5.890 |
| 12″ x 3″ x 1/2″ | 4.25 | 10.250 |
Custom Sizing Available
- Heights: 1″ to 12″
- Widths: 0.75″ to 12″
- Thickness: 1/8″ to 1/2″
- Lengths: Standard 10ft, 20ft | Custom up to 40ft
Dimensional Tolerances (ASTM D3917): +/-1/16″ height/width, +/-10% thickness
Load Capacity Data
Allowable loads depend on profile size, span, support conditions, safety factor, and resin system. Contact our engineering team for project-specific load tables and connection guidance.
Chemical Resistance
Fiberglass C-channels made with vinyl ester or polyester resin systems resist many acids, bases, salts, and organic solvents better than unprotected steel. Chemical compatibility varies by concentration and temperature, so request compatibility data for your specific environment.
Primary Applications
Industrial & Chemical Processing
- Structural supports in chemical plants and refineries
- Equipment platforms and walkway framing
- Pipe supports and cable management systems
Marine & Coastal Structures
- Dock and pier construction components
- Seawall reinforcement systems
- Offshore platform structural elements
Electrical & Infrastructure
- Cable tray supports and electrical room framing
- Substation and transformer structural components
- Telecommunications equipment mounting
Construction & Architecture
- Floor joists and roof supports in corrosive environments
- Structural framing for water treatment facilities
- Building components requiring electrical insulation
Installation Guidelines
Cutting & Machining
- Recommended Tools: Carbide-tipped circular saw or diamond blade
- Cutting Speed: 3,000-5,000 SFM for clean edges
- Drilling: Use sharp HSS or carbide bits, slow speeds, continuous feed
Fastening Methods
- Mechanical: Stainless steel bolts, rivets, or FRP fasteners
- Adhesive: Structural acrylics or epoxy systems
- Pre-drilling: Required to prevent stress concentrations
- Torque Specifications: Available for each fastener type
Support Spacing Recommendations
- Light Duty (<100 lbs/ft): 4ft maximum spacing
- Medium Duty (100-300 lbs/ft): 2-3ft spacing
- Heavy Duty (>300 lbs/ft): 1-2ft spacing
Spacing guidelines are general. Verify with project engineering calculations.
FAQ
What sizes are available for FRP C channel?
Standard FRP C channel sizes range from 2″ x 9/16″ x 1/8″ (0.28 lbs/ft) to 15″ x 3.5″ x 0.5″ (10+ lbs/ft). Common sizes include 3″ x 7/8″ x 1/4″, 4″ x 1-1/8″ x 3/8″, 6″ x 1-1/2″ x 3/8″.
What is the weight advantage over steel channel?
FRP C channel is approximately 70-75% lighter than carbon steel channel for equal cross-section while providing comparable stiffness and strength in many applications. Example: a 4″ channel may weigh 0.65 lbs/ft vs 4.2 lbs/ft for steel.
Is FRP C channel corrosion resistant?
Yes. FRP C channel resists moisture, saltwater, and many industrial chemicals better than unprotected steel, making it suitable for chemical plants, marine structures, wastewater treatment, and coastal infrastructure.
What is the modulus of elasticity for FRP C channel?
Modulus of elasticity is typically 3.5-5.0 million psi (24-34 GPa) along the fiber direction. This provides adequate stiffness for beams, framing, and structural supports in many industrial applications.
What applications use FRP C channel?
Industrial platforms, stair stringers, bridge deck supports, cable management, equipment framing, cooling tower structures, and architectural features requiring lightweight corrosion resistance.
Does FRP C channel conduct electricity?
No. FRP C channel is non-conductive with high dielectric strength, making it suitable for electrical substations, power plants, and applications near live electrical systems.
Are FRP C channels fire resistant?
Fire-retardant formulations are available. Ask for test data such as ASTM E84 flame spread, UL94 flammability, or smoke generation ratings for the specific product and resin system you need.
Can FRP C channels be customized?
Yes. Custom lengths up to 40ft, special thicknesses, colors, fire-retardant formulations, and surface textures are available. CNC fabrication for brackets and fittings is also offered.
In addition to structural profiles, IncomePultrusion supplies FRP rebar for corrosion-resistant concrete reinforcement.
Why Choose Our Fiberglass C-Channels?
Proven Experience: IncomePultrusion manufactures pultruded FRP profiles for demanding applications worldwide.
Technical Support: Our team provides load calculation assistance, installation guidance, and application-specific recommendations.
Quality Assurance: Profiles are produced under documented quality procedures with certificates of compliance available for critical applications.
Custom Solutions: Standard sizes are available; custom configurations are quoted to meet your project requirements.
Bulk Fiberglass C-Channels
Need fiberglass C-channels in custom sizes, resin systems, or bulk quantities for your project? Contact us for a quote and we will confirm dimensions, lead time, and delivery.
Ready to specify fiberglass C-channels for your project? Contact our technical sales team for engineering support, detailed specifications, and project-specific recommendations.
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