Location:
Mill Hall, Pennsylvania
Application:
Blending and Frac Trailers
Products:
1-1/2 inch Corvex FRP Molded Grating
Overview:
In October 2023, Fibergrate undertook a Fracking & Well Completion project in Mill Hall, PA. Blending and Frac (fracturing) trailers are equipment used in the oil and gas industry, particularly in the process of hydraulic fracturing, commonly known as fracking. Blending trailers mix water, sand, and chemicals to create hydraulic fracturing fluid in precise proportions. Frac trailers then inject this fluid into wells at high pressure, creating fractures in rock formations and facilitating the extraction of oil and natural gas.
Problem:
The existing platforms on the blending and frac trailers were brittle and slippery, posing safety risks for the workforce. Additionally, steel, or other metal gratings would cause the trailer to be over the weight limit for D.O.T. inspections. Beyond the weight limitations, metal gratings cause the trailers to be prone to corrosion due to strong chemicals used in the offshore activities. The customer wanted to find a grating solution that increased worker safety, was lightweight enough to pass the D.O.T. inspections, and would not involve the intense maintenance that metal grating requires.
Solution:
The contractor understood the concerns of the client and decided to use 1-1/2 inch thick corvex fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) molded grating. FRP grating was selected over steel for several reasons.It is resistant to corrosion, so the application will last much longer than steel and will cut down routine maintenance. Additionally, FRP is much lighter than steel, so it significantly reduces the weight of the trailer allowing it to pass D.O.T. inspections and making installation and future maintenance easier.The grating also provides a non-corrosive slip resistant surface increasing worker safety. The solution addressed the weight issues, allowing it to pass the D.O.T. inspections, and making its installation and maintenance much easier.
Results:
Fibergrate provided a solution that solved all the issues and concerns of the client, reducing overall trailer weight, improving slip resistance, and streamlining the installation process. The result not only met safety and compliance standards, but also presented a visually appealing solution with vibrant yellow grating.
This case study highlights Fibergrate's commitment to delivering tailored, high-quality solutions with a focus on safety, innovation, and customer satisfaction.