Fibreglass Rods
Why Fibreglass Rods Are Replacing Steel and Timber in UK Projects
Fibreglass rods are fast becoming the preferred alternative to metal, timber, and plastic across industrial, utility, and infrastructure projects. Their strength, weather resistance, and insulation properties make them ideal in settings where traditional materials fail. Unlike steel, fibreglass rods will not rust or conduct electricity. Unlike timber, they do not rot, split, or warp. They are lightweight, easy to transport, and completely maintenance-free.
Engineered Composites supplies both fibreglass rods and fibreglass tubes to suit a wide range of structural and non-conductive applications. From power station cable supports to marine-grade frames and lightweight scaffolding, our products offer a high-performance composite solution that saves time, money, and maintenance over the long term.
What Makes GRP Rods and Fibreglass Tubes Different
Both fibreglass rods and GRP tubes are manufactured using pultrusion, combining continuous glass fibres with a high-strength resin. This creates a product that is incredibly strong, dimensionally stable, and resistant to UV, weathering, and chemicals. Fibreglass rods are typically used in tension and reinforcement applications, while fibreglass tubes are ideal for load-bearing structures and hollow-section frameworks where low weight and high stiffness are critical.
GRP tubes are often preferred over metal for framework systems, handrails, and enclosures, while fibreglass rods are used for internal supports, fixings, and non-conductive shafts. Both offer long-term durability and are available in custom lengths, diameters, and resin grades.
Core Technical Properties of Fibreglass Rods and Tubes
Engineered Composites’ fibreglass rods and GRP tubes are manufactured to BS EN 13706 standards, ensuring reliable mechanical performance in all weather conditions.
Typical performance includes:
- Tensile strength up to 1200 MPa
- Modulus of elasticity around 50 GPa
- Electrical dielectric strength over 10 kV/mm
- Fire retardant to Class 2 under BS 476 Part 7
- Density approx. 1.9 g/cm³
- Thermal conductivity below 0.3 W/mK
- UV-stabilised and colour-fast in outdoor exposure
GRP tubes, while slightly heavier than rods due to their profile, offer greater flexural strength and improved dimensional stability in compression. This makes them ideal for frames, barriers, and pipework.
Commercial Advantages of Fibreglass Rods and Tubes
Choosing fibreglass rods or GRP tubes helps contractors and asset owners reduce both project and lifecycle costs. These materials require no galvanising, no painting, and no corrosion protection. Their lightweight profile reduces transport and installation time. Their non-conductive properties enhance site safety when working around electricity or moisture.
Fibreglass tubes are especially effective in modular construction, fencing systems, marine infrastructure, and rail sector applications. Their low weight and ease of cutting make them ideal for retrofit and refurbishment works. Fibreglass rods offer high tensile support in areas like cable mounting, rebar systems, and portable structures.
Both products support sustainability targets with long service lives, reduced waste, and excellent environmental performance.
Key Applications for Fibreglass Rods and GRP Tubes
The versatility of fibreglass rods and tubes allows them to be used across construction, utilities, marine, transport, and landscaping sectors. Engineered Composites supplies tailored solutions for:
Reinforced concrete applications
Fibreglass rods are used as corrosion-free GRP rebar, ideal for marine walls, bridges, car parks, and tunnels. Unlike steel, they will not react with concrete or require cathodic protection. GRP tubes can be used for dowels or hollow reinforcements where weight reduction is essential.
Electrical utility support
Fibreglass rods and tubes are widely used in substations, power networks, and switchgear frames. Rods act as insulator supports and spacers, while tubes create enclosures, sleeves, and barrier systems. Both products eliminate conductivity risk.
Event structures and portable frames
Lightweight fibreglass rods are perfect for signage poles, tent frames, and flexible pop-up systems. Fibreglass tubes can be used for temporary fencing, frameworks, and exhibition stands where speed of deployment is key.
Tool handles and non-conductive equipment
Both fibreglass rods and tubes are used in insulated tools, handles, and shafts. The material is impact-resistant, chemical-resistant, and safe near high-voltage equipment.
Cable trenches and trench covers
Fibreglass rods serve as anchor supports and cable risers, while GRP tubes are used as sleeves and conduits for telecom and water utilities. Their resistance to soil acidity and groundwater ensures long-term performance underground.
Landscaping and agricultural systems
Rods are commonly used as plant stakes, greenhouse supports, and trellis systems. Tubes provide strength in lightweight shelter structures, irrigation arms, and agricultural barriers. Both outperform timber in damp, saline, and seasonal conditions.
Safety railings and fencing systems
Fibreglass tubes are used in modular handrails, fencing panels, and fall protection barriers. Rods can be used within mesh infill systems, fence spikes, or as cross-tie elements. Both are corrosion-free and safe in rail, marine, and chemical sites.
Case Study: Fibreglass Rods and Tubes in Substation Infrastructure
A UK electricity distributor was facing significant corrosion on steel posts and brackets used in rural substations. Engineered Composites supplied fibreglass rods to replace ground-mounted supports and GRP tubes to form the framework for non-conductive fencing around equipment.
The client saw a 60 percent reduction in installation time, eliminated annual painting costs, and improved site safety with fully insulated structural systems. Both fibreglass rods and GRP tubes performed flawlessly under long-term UV and weather exposure, supporting the client’s move away from traditional metallic materials.
Following successful trials, fibreglass products are now specified as standard across all new and refurbished substations in their network
Comparing GRP Tubes and Fibreglass Rods to Steel and Timber
Timber and steel remain common in UK construction, but fibreglass alternatives offer superior performance in key areas.
Fibreglass rods are stronger than timber, lighter than steel, and unaffected by rot, pests, or rust. GRP tubes deliver high rigidity and can replace galvanised or stainless steel in modular builds and coastal zones.
Where steel requires hot work and specialist lifting, fibreglass is easily cut and installed using basic tools. It removes fire risk, reduces insurance premiums, and simplifies delivery to remote or hard-to-access areas.
Fibreglass solutions also reduce maintenance costs and downtime. Once installed, they need no coatings, preservatives, or replacement for decades.
Sustainability Benefits
Fibreglass rods and GRP tubes support low-carbon construction and circular economy goals. Manufactured with up to 75 percent less energy than steel, and requiring no toxic treatments, they help reduce overall project carbon.
Long service life, no reactive replacements, and recyclable options all support environmental compliance. EPDs and BREEAM or LEED contribution statements are available on request. Engineered Composites also supports PAS 2080-aligned carbon data reporting.
Why Order from Engineered Composites
We offer:
- Wide diameter and wall thickness options
- Cut-to-length service and project-ready packs
- Resin selection to suit operating conditions
- Fast lead times and national distribution
- Advice on design integration, compatibility, and performance
Conclusion
Fibreglass rods and fibreglass tubes are transforming the way contractors, engineers, and asset owners approach structural and safety-critical applications. Their strength, safety, and resistance to corrosion make them a modern replacement for steel and timber in demanding environments.
Whether you are working on a new build, a retrofit project, or a temporary installation, Engineered Composites provides reliable, high-spec GRP tubes and fibreglass rods to suit your exact requirements.
Contact our team today to specify your solution, request technical data, or place your order.
