GFRP design: insights and in-depth study

Design in GFRP for sensitive airport areas

In terms of design, FibreFENCE contributes to ensuring the highest possible safety and security standards in all sensitive airport areas thanks to its fencing production technology in composite material. Moreover, the processing technology is complemented by Fibre Net‘s more than 20 years of engineering experience in the development of GFRP solutions,

How we design in GFRP

FibreFENCE MESH is one of the most efficient, durable and cost-effective of all radio-certified fencing systems available on the market. Indeed, the system is installed directly on site by assembling fibreglass nets, profiles and bracing. In order to guarantee an efficient, reliable and durable perimeter fence system, our design office starts from a standard layout to customise solutions specifically requested by the customer. 

Let’s take a closer look at how the design of this fence is developed in this indicative diagram.

GFRP nets and uprights design and configuration

In the picture above we take a standard FibreFENCE MESH layout into account. The green-coloured GFRP net is considered with mesh of 33×33 mm squares having a weight of 1,000 gr/m². It can be developed in different colors from green, for example in white or red, in order to reach a greater visibility. The overall height is 2,000 mm. More specifically, it’s made of pre-stretched glass fibre impregnated with isophthalic polyester resin.

The uprights are squared profiles in GFRP for supporting the net, with above-ground height of 2,120 mm. They have to be installed every 2.0 m of fencing length of 2,420 mm, of which 300 mm for anchoring in concrete. Finally, the uprights are pre-drilled for the mounting of 5 + 2 running wires and are complete with a black plastic cap.

Generally, the double upper arm in GFRP is realised for the support of the anti-climbing wires: these uprights are also made of green pultruded profile in GFRP, pre-drilled for the mounting of no. 8 anti-climb wires running on each arm.

Bracing design and configuration

The bracings are pultruded GFRP profiles arranged transversally to strengthen the vertical structures against wind action or other forces acting horizontally.

Already from the design, it is evident that the large openings of the mesh provide great visibility to improve active and passive safety. Moreover, the bracing system allows for increased strength. Contemporarily, the lightness of the material is a strategic element for fast and economical installation, no lifting equipment or special tools are required.

Therefore, the main characteristics of FibreFENCE fencing systems are

• Frangibility, in accordance with ICAO Aerodrome Design Manual, Part 6: Frangibility;
• Radio-transparency, no interference with ILS instruments, radar, telecommunication antennas, etc.;
• Excellent resistance to weathering (even in the presence of salt spray/salty water) and UV radiation:
• Total absence of maintenance, even in the long term;
• Electrically insulated and non-magnetic;
• Reduced visual impact, benefiting security and control services;
• High mechanical strength in relation to its weight;
• Fully compatible with most intrusion control systems on the market.

Do you need our engineering consulence? Send us your request. We would be happy to help you with your project. Mailto info@fibrefence.it