What are Composites?

…the burning question

In the main, Australians have not been aware of composites and the advantages they offer. In other parts of the world like America and Europe, composites are used in structures like buildings, bridges, power poles, hand railing and many more applications.

Structural Composites and The Strongwell Corporation work together to provide Australian Industries with cost effective, quality composite products that provide positive alternatives to timber and steel.

Composites are combinations of two materials in which one of the materials, called the reinforcing phase, is in the form of fibres or similar and is embedded in another material called the matrix phase. By combining the reinforcement strength of the reinforcing phase together with the corrosion resistant benefits of the matrix phase our composite products bring out the advantageous properties of both; whereas base products, like steel and timber, absorb the properties of each other and the advantages of the stronger element prevails.

Advantages of Composites

At Structural Composites, we source our products from The Strongwell Corporation who is the leading supplier of GRP pultrusion products worldwide, therefore we offer the best quality and have a vast knowledge of the advantages that these products reap. A few of these advantages and benefits are:-

• Composite products are available in either Polyester Isophthalic or Vinyl Ester Resins for resistance to a broad range of chemicals and corrosive environments.
  
• They do not rust or corrode like steel or rot, over time like timber.
  
• Composites weigh 75% less than steel and maintains a higher strength to weight ratio.
  
• Low electrical and thermal conductivity properties – high dielectric capability.
  
• Ease of Installation – Lightweight and easily assembled.
  
• Pigments can be added to the resin to provide colour instead of painting (this is in large quantities).
  
• Does not permanently deform under impact.
  
• Composite Handrail does not absorb heat likesteel does.
  
• Low maintenance costs.
  
• UV Resistant – coated with a UV inhibitor.
  
• Fire Retardant.