2. Introduction
Fiberglass is a lightweight,
extremely strong, and robust
material.
Fiberglass combines its light
weight with an inherent strength
to provide a weather resistant
finish with a variety of surface
textures.
3. There are 4 methods by which fiberglass can be
made. They are:
Fiberglass hand lay-up operation
Fiberglass spray lay-up operation
Pultrusion operation
Chopped strand mat
4. History
The history of modern
fiberglass really only
stretches back to the 1930s.
Mass production of glass
strands was accidentally
discovered in 1932 by a
researcher at the Owens-
Illinois, who accidentally
directed a jet of
compressed air at a stream
of molten glass and
produced fiber.
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A suitable resin for combining the fiberglass with a
plastic was developed in 1936.
During the Second World War, it was developed as a
replacement for the molded plywood used in aircraft.
6. Company Profile
The company, MAHAVIR ENTERPRISE, is engaged in
supplying high quality Fiberglass Sheets :
1. Designer Fiberglass Sheet
2. Plain Fiberglass Sheet
This company deals with the sheets which are used only for
shedding and roofing purposes.
7. Some Facts about MAHAVIR ENT.
Year of Establishment : 1990
Legal Status of Firm : Sole Proprietorship
Nature of Business : Manufacturer
Number of Employees : 11 to 25 people
Turnover : US$ 0.25-1 Million
(Rs.1-4 crores Approx.)
8. Inputs
Fiberglass mat can be used
between layers of woven fabric
to help build thickness quickly
and aid in all layers bonding well
together.
MEKP (Methyl Ethyl Ketone
Peroxide) is the catalyst added
to polyester resin. It is a clear
and colorless solution.
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Polyester resins are the
most commonly used matrix
in the marine and
composite industry.
Polyester film is useful for
making sheet. Polyester film
is reusable.
10. Production Process
Plain Fiberglass sheet’s production starts with polyester film
11. Then polyester resin is spread on the polyester film
After the polyester resin is spread completely over the film,
fiber glass mat is applied over it.
12. Over this arrangement,
polyester film is again laid
which gives strength and
support to the sheet.
The air between the layers
is then removed with a
spatula-type object.
13. It is allowed to dry for 7 to 8 hours so that it can take the
shape of the mould.
14. When dried, the sheets
are given proper shape
with a cutter and edges
are smoothened.
15. Designed fiberglass sheets
are made by adding many
other materials such as
agro net, bamboo sheet,
colored papers or cloth are
used.
16.
17. Output
These sheets are then transported locally or within the state
as per the client’s order.
18. Applications
Telecommunications
Making storage tanks
Septic tanks
House building, door
surrounds
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Automotive industry
Small watercrafts
Fire water, sewage, wastewater and
drinking water systems.
Gas system
20. Health Problems
Workers are more likely to get affected by exposure to
fiberglass. Some of the problems are:
1. A rash can appear on skin.
2. Eyes may become red and irritated.
3. Temporary stomach irritation.
4. Soreness in the nose and throat.
Smaller fibers have the ability to reach the lower part of the
lungs increasing the chance of adverse health effects.
21. Steps to reduce exposure
Wear loose fitting, long-sleeved clothing and gloves.
Wear a mask over the nose and mouth to prevent breathing
in the fibers.
Wear goggles or safety glasses with side shields to
protect the eyes.
Open a window or a door to increase ventilation and
reduce dust levels.
Use a shop vacuum after wetting the dust and fibers.