FRP vs traditional materials: a procurement decision matrix

Translate the project into failure modes: excessive deflection, corrosion, fatigue, impact, fire, creep, moisture, UV, electrical tracking, connection failure and maintenance access. A material shortlist becomes much clearer once the unacceptable failure modes and verification methods are explicit.

A statement such as 'FRP is corrosion resistant' is incomplete. The engineer needs resin chemistry, reinforcement, fiber orientation, veil, cure, chemical concentration, temperature and exposure duration. Equivalent discipline is needed for steel coating, stainless grade, aluminum alloy/finish, concrete mix and treated wood.

Ask each bidder to price the same delivered function: members, fasteners, inserts, protective finish, fabrication, inspection, packing, installation aids and required documentation. State who owns tooling and calculations and who is responsible for interface dimensions.

For lifecycle cost, use the same design period, inspection interval, access cost, shutdown allowance and replacement scenario. A lifecycle model should expose assumptions rather than hide them in one discounted total.

The minimum evidence package is a controlled datasheet, applicable test reports, environmental compatibility statement, dimensional tolerances, fabrication instructions, connection guidance and traceability plan. Structural work also needs characteristic or design values and a clear design standard.