When it comes to making safe, durable and cost-effective handrails and safety structures, key clamps dominate the conversation. But with so many different materials on the market, how do you know which key clamps are going to be the best solution for your needs? Whether you choose galvanised key clamps or GRP key clamps, there are a few different things you’ll need to keep in mind.
Understanding the different strengths and limitations of both materials is crucial, as is knowing exactly where you’re going to use your handrails, guardrails, or safety barriers. As experts in the key clamp space, our team has a lot of experience in the “GRP vs. galvanised key clamps” debate, and this is our guide to which material will work best for your environment.
Let’s Start Simple: What Are Key Clamps
Key clamps are modular components that are specially designed to connect tubes to create handrails, guardrails and barriers without any welding. They’re perfect for businesses looking to enhance employee safety without having to permanently weld materials together. Key clamps often come in either GRP or galvanised varieties, and the type of key clamp plays a big role in how long-lasting and durable it will be for your environment.
Let’s Talk GRP
GRP, AKA Glass Reinforced Plastic, is a material made from glass fibres and plastic to create a strong, durable and lightweight key clamp that is becoming more and more popular in safety applications.
What Are The Pros Of GRP?
GRP, as a material, has many advantages, here are some of the key pros of choosing GRP for your key clamp solutions.
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They’re corrosion resistant: One of the factors that make GRP such a popular choice is their corrosion resistance, it’s perfect for industries or environments that are outdoors, exposed to chemicals or exposed to water.
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They don’t conduct electricity: This is a major factor in the power and railway industries. When handrails or guardrails are installed in close proximity to live electrical equipment, ensuring non-conductive components are used are vital.
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They’re lightweight: This is another factor that makes GRP so popular. GRP key clamps are incredibly lightweight, making them easy for you to transport and install.
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Low maintenance: Because GRP is made from glass reinforced plastic, they require far less maintenance than steel alternatives.
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They’re UV resistant: If you’re looking for something that is able to withstand near constant sunlight, GRP is going to be your best bet, making it a great solution for outdoor use.
So, What Are The Disadvantages?
As with anything, there are, of course, some drawbacks with GRP. These are some of the considerations you have to keep in mind if looking to use GRP key clamps for your next project.
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They can be expensive: Typically, GRP is more expensive than galvanised steel, however, as it requires less maintenance, it can be more cost-effective in the long run.
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Possible strength limitations: Whilst GRP is incredibly strong, it may not be as strong as steel if you’re looking for something extra heavy-duty.
Now, Galvanised Key Clamps
Galvanised key clamps, on the other hand, are made from steel coated in zinc to protect against rust and corrosion. Galvanised key clamps, like GRP key clamps, are also widely praised for their strength and durability.
What Are Some Advantages?
Galvanised key clamps have a number of unique benefits, here are some of the advantages that make them such a popular choice.
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They’re Strong: Galvanised key clamps are incredibly strong, so they’re perfect for more heavy-duty applications.
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Typically cheaper: Galvanised key clamps are typically more affordable than their GRP alternatives.
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They’re widely available: Galvanised key clamps are generally quite easy to find, so they’re the perfect solution if you’re in a pinch and need something quickly.
Any Drawbacks?
Of course, there are still drawbacks with galvanised key clamps; these are some of the considerations to keep in mind if choosing this material.
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They can corrode: If you’re looking for something that can withstand harsh conditions, such as water or chemicals, galvanised key clamps can corrode over time. Whilst galvanisation delays rust, it will eventually corrode if exposed to harsh environments.
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They’re heavy: Steel is far heavier than GRP, which can increase transport costs and make installation more difficult.
So, Where Should I Use Each Material?
The best material for your industry depends on a variety of different factors. If you’re looking for a solution for a marine environment or a chemical plant, GRP will be your best bet. But if you’re looking for high-impact solutions, galvanised steel key clamps are going to be the way to go.
If you need help deciphering which material is going to work best in your unique environment, you can contact a member of our Lockinex team today to find out more about our extensive range.