What Is an FRP Equipment Enclosure? Key Benefits and Features

What Is an FRP Equipment Enclosure?

An FRP equipment enclosure is a non-metallic housing made from composite materials—primarily a thermoset resin reinforced with glass fibers. These enclosures are engineered to offer strong mechanical performance while resisting environmental degradation.

Unlike traditional metal or plastic housings, FRP enclosures combine the strength of engineered composites with the versatility of molding and shaping, making them ideal for a wide range of industrial uses.

Core Advantages of FRP Enclosures

1. Corrosion Resistance
   One of the standout features of FRP is its inherent resistance to corrosion. In industries where equipment is exposed to acids, salts, moisture, or industrial chemicals, metal enclosures rust or degrade over time. FRP, however, remains structurally sound even after decades of exposure.

This makes it especially suitable for:

• Coastal environments

• Chemical processing plants

• Wastewater treatment facilities

1. Electrical Insulation
   FRP is a non-conductive material, which eliminates the need for grounding and reduces the risk of electrical shock or interference. For electrical cabinets or power distribution units, this provides a safer and more reliable solution than metal housings.

2. Lightweight Yet Strong
   Compared to steel or aluminum, FRP is significantly lighter while maintaining high tensile strength and rigidity. This reduces transport and installation costs, especially for large enclosures or remote-site installations such as solar farms or telecom towers.

3. UV and Weather Resistance
   With UV-stabilized resin systems, FRP enclosures are built to resist sun exposure, temperature fluctuations, and rain, retaining their structural integrity and appearance over time. This is crucial for long-term outdoor use.

4. Design Flexibility
   FRP housings can be custom-molded into almost any shape or size, allowing for integrated features like mounting holes, ventilation ports, transparent panels, or built-in hinges. This degree of customization is not feasible with sheet-metal boxes or injection-molded plastics.

5. Fire Retardancy
   Special formulations of FRP include fire-retardant additives, allowing them to meet UL 94 V-0 or ASTM E84 standards. This makes them suitable for high-risk environments such as power substations or oil & gas processing units.

Where Are FRP Equipment Enclosures Used?

FRP enclosures are used across a wide range of sectors, including:

• Power Distribution: For transformer housings, control cabinets, and switchgear.

• Telecommunications: Protecting signal equipment in outdoor or rooftop settings.

• Water and Wastewater: Used in pump stations, filtration systems, and valve boxes.

• Transportation: Rail and highway systems use FRP boxes for signage controls or lighting.

• Renewable Energy: Protecting sensitive solar inverter systems and wind turbine electronics.

These applications often demand non-metallic, weatherproof, and low-maintenance solutions—making FRP the go-to material.

FRP Enclosures vs. Metal Enclosures

Customization Options

At GTOFRP™, we offer fully customizable fiberglass enclosures:

• Sizes: From compact junction boxes to large walk-in shelters

• Colors: Grey, green, white, or according to RAL code

• IP Ratings: IP65, IP66, IP67, or even IP68 upon request

• Mounting: Wall-mounted, floor-standing, pole-mounted

• Add-ons: Windows, louvers, locks, flanges, or cable glands

Conclusion: Why Choose FRP Enclosures?

FRP equipment enclosures represent the future of industrial housing—especially in harsh, corrosive, or high-performance environments. With their combination of durability, flexibility, and safety, they consistently outperform steel and thermoplastics.

If your application demands long service life, resistance to the elements, and minimal maintenance, FRP is the smart choice.
Contact GTOFRP™ today to customize a solution that fits your project.