Mining operations in West Africa involve heavy machinery, corrosive environments, and continuous foot traffic. Traditional steel walkways corrode quickly, requiring frequent replacement and posing safety hazards. A large mining company sought a durable, non-corrosive alternative for its walkways.
Harsh environment with acidic water and heavy wear.
Frequent replacement of corroded steel grating was costly.
Slip hazards were a concern for workers.
Needed lightweight yet durable solutions.
Prepcoat, in partnership with Fibergrate, introduced FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) composite walkways. Key features included:
Corrosion resistance in acidic environments.
Non-slip surfaces for worker safety.
Lightweight panels for easy installation.
Long lifespan compared to steel.
Engineering Assessment – Measured load requirements and walkway spans.
Fabrication – FRP panels cut to required dimensions.
Installation – Lightweight panels easily installed with minimal downtime.
Safety Verification – Walkways tested for load-bearing and slip resistance.
Walkway replacement frequency reduced from every 3 years to 15+ years.
Improved worker safety with non-slip surfaces.
Reduced overall maintenance costs by over 40%.
Mining company reported higher operational uptime.
FRP composites are not just replacements, but long-term value creators in industrial infrastructure.
Material innovation directly contributes to safety and cost efficiency.
