GFRP (Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer) is a composite material increasingly used for manufacturing reliable and durable rockbolts. These advanced anchors outperform traditional steel solutions due to their unique properties: lightweight, corrosion resistance, and ease of installation. In this article, we will explore what GFRP rockbolts are, their advantages over steel alternatives, their applications, and provide detailed technical specifications. Additionally, we introduce our latest development: advanced equipment for manufacturing GFRP rockbolts from Composite-Tech.
What is a GFRP Rockbolt?
A GFRP rockbolt is an anchor made from glass-fiber reinforced polymer, impregnated with epoxy, vinyl ester, or polyester resin. These anchors stabilize rock masses, tunnels, slopes, and foundations, preventing collapses and ensuring safety during underground operations.
The production process involves pultrusion technology. This method pulls fibers through a mold, where they are impregnated with resin and formed into the desired profile with threading. The result is a strong, lightweight, and durable rockbolt, ideal for use in high-humidity and chemically aggressive environments.
Advantages of GFRP Rockbolts over Steel Solutions
- Corrosion Resistance:
GFRP rockbolts do not rust, making them suitable for use in humid conditions and chemically aggressive environments where steel would quickly degrade. - Lightweight:
GFRP rockbolts are much lighter than steel, simplifying transport, installation, and replacement, while also reducing labor costs. - Ease of Handling:
These rockbolts can be easily cut without the need for removal, which is particularly convenient when new tunnels are excavated or construction plans change. - Anti-static Properties:
GFRP materials do not spark and are non-conductive, enhancing safety when used in coal mines and other potentially explosive environments. - High Strength:
GFRP rockbolts can withstand significant tensile and shear loads, ensuring reliable support even in challenging conditions. - Fire Resistance:
These anchors do not support combustion and can withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for underground and tunnel applications.
Technical Specifications of GFRP Rockbolts
Key Parameters:
| Model | Diameter (mm) | Tensile Load (kN) | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Weight (g/m) |
| CT-Rb18 | 18 | ≥80 | ≥300 | ≥40 | 460 |
| CT-Rb24 | 24 | ≥130 | ≥500 | ≥100 | 850 |
| CT-Rb32 | 32 | ≥200 | ≥700 | ≥200 | 1500 |
- Anti-static resistance: ≤3×10⁸ Ohms
- Shear Strength: ≥75 MPa
- Modulus of Elasticity: 35–45 GPa
- Anchor Types: Solid, hollow, and self-drilling models.
These technical specifications highlight the high performance and reliability of GFRP rockbolts, making them an optimal solution for reinforcing tunnels, slopes, and foundations.
Applications of GFRP Rockbolts
- Mining Industry:
GFRP rockbolts are used to stabilize mine tunnels and prevent rockfalls, ensuring a safe working environment. - Tunnels and Metros:
In underground construction, GFRP rockbolts provide long-term durability and stability without corrosion, reducing the need for frequent replacements. - Slope and Cliff Stabilization:
GFRP rockbolts help prevent landslides and erosion on steep or unstable terrains, ensuring the stability of slopes. - Building and Structure Foundations:
These anchors offer reliable support for structures located in high-humidity areas or aggressive soil environments. - Temporary and Permanent Support:
GFRP rockbolts are suitable for both early-stage construction and long-term projects, offering flexibility in project management.
New GFRP Rockbolt Manufacturing Equipment from Composite-Tech
We are proud to announce that Composite-Tech has launched a new generation of equipment for manufacturing GFRP rockbolts. Our machines are designed to meet the latest industry requirements and offer:
- High productivity with consistent product quality.
- Automated pultrusion technology with adjustable parameters to produce various types of rockbolts.
- Energy efficiency and easy maintenance.
This new equipment will significantly reduce production costs while giving manufacturers the flexibility to produce a wide range of GFRP rockbolts. With these advancements, Composite-Tech continues to lead the way in providing efficient and reliable solutions for underground construction and mining.
Conclusion
GFRP rockbolts represent a cutting-edge solution that combines high strength, lightweight, and corrosion resistance. These features make GFRP rockbolts superior to traditional steel alternatives, setting a new standard in the construction and mining industries. Composite anchors provide reliable support, long-term durability, and improved safety, while reducing operational costs and simplifying installation.
At Composite-Tech, we remain committed to advancing technology and offering effective solutions for stabilizing infrastructure. The launch of our new equipment for GFRP rockbolt production is a major step forward in enhancing safety and efficiency at construction and mining sites worldwide.
