One of the superior characteristics of fiberglass is its durability and strength to withstand heavy loads and high temperatures. But are you curious? Is fiberglass stronger than steel or other metals? When the strength of steel or other metals is beyond doubt, is fiberglass tough enough to rival its strength? Let’s find out the answer by listening to the following description:
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Fiberglass Characteristics
Fiberglass is a dynamic glass fiber because it can be processed into various shapes and can be combined with other materials. For craftsmen and businessmen, this material can be obtained in the form of slabs, threads, or sheets of cloth. But consumers prefer to buy fiberglass in the form of finished products, such as fire blankets, fire-resistant protective clothing, heat and cold insulation boards for properties, doors, and frames, and other products.
Characteristics of Fiberglass is highly preferred for use in industry and households. Besides being strong, this material is anti-rust and corrosion-resistant. But, is fiberglass stronger than steel?
Steel Characteristics
Let’s also look at the characteristics of steel to see how durable it is. Steel is formed from a mixture of various materials, including iron, nickel, aluminum, silicon, carbon, chromium, sulfur, manganese, nitrogen, and oxygen. But the mixture above is not always complete so there will be different types of steel on the market, and their quality varies.
In general, steel is very hard and strong because it is resistant to impact and pressure. It also has strong magnetic properties, is stable in shape (not easy to expand), and is resistant to rust and acid. The use of steel is also dynamic, although fiberglass is superior in this regard. Steel can be used for a variety of construction equipment to manufacture household goods.
Multiple Trials and Tests
To answer the question, “is fiberglass stronger than steel?” Let’s do a simple experiment. The main object of the experiment was fiberglass in the form of a slab. This glass fiber has been combined with plastic material so that its strength is further increased. Will this plate be damaged when stepped on by humans? Will it survive being run over by cars, diesel trucks, semi-trucks, even when hit by a sledgehammer?
The experimental results are amazing, where the fiberglass is not damaged when hit by heavy objects. When run over, the shape of the slab will be affected by heavy loads from trucks and cars. But once finished, the fiberglass returns to its original shape. Likewise, when hit by a sledgehammer. There are a few cosmetic scratches on the slab, but the original shape is completely unaffected.
When the same experiment is carried out for other materials, namely wood and steel, we can more clearly compare their strengths. When hit by a sledgehammer, the steel plate is easily dented and its shape is no longer intact.
Likewise, wood breaks in half when hit by a hard object. The results indicate fiberglass as a material that is stronger than steel or other metals. But this does not mean fiberglass is better than steel or vice versa. It all depends on your needs and the type of product to be used.
Fiberglass Vs Steel, which is More Economical?
Comparison of these two objects must be equivalent, for example, what type of product will be compared, what size and similarity of other properties. In this case, let’s compare doors made of fiberglass and those made of steel. This kind of comparison will be more objective than having to compare them in general. But once again we emphasize that the strength of fiberglass and steel is relative, depending on the purpose of manufacture and the type of product.
Fiberglass entry doors excel because of their lighter weight, as well as their customizable appearance. That is, this kind of door can be painted as desired, easy to install, and you don’t have to bother caring for and cleaning it. Fiberglass doors are also very good at absorbing heat and cold so that the air in the house can be stable and comfortable. But this type of door is considered no safer than a door made of steel.
On the other hand, steel doors do not support the energy-saving agenda and easily absorb heat and cold from the outside. But this type of door is considered safer, and the selling value can be higher.
So, when asked which one is more economical or which one is better, the answer is very relative depending on who the seller is, how it is produced, and other elements that should suit your needs.
Where to Get Good Fiberglass Products?
After the question about “is fiberglass stronger than steel?” answered, you may be interested in having some fiberglass products for your specific needs. There are many sellers of fiberglass products out there. But you want a product that is in good condition and at an affordable price, right?
You can cooperate with Bright Sky New Material Co Ltd. or Silicapro to get those wishes. Our company produces various types of fiberglass-based products for various needs. Please contact us further to get the most affordable price quote.