The 38mm molded FRP grating is the most widely used section in the ZeAllgrate molded range and the default specification for industrial walkways worldwide. At approximately 18-22 kg per square metre it balances light weight, generous span capability and a comfortable anti-slip walking surface, making it the first choice when engineers do not need the extra capacity of a 50mm panel but want more reserve than a 25mm sheet. Manufactured by Nantong Zeall New Materials Co., Ltd. (ZeAllgrate) since 2004 and exported to more than 45 countries under ISO 9001 quality control, the 38mm molded panel is a true bi-directional grid in which both the bearing bars and the cross rods carry load in either direction.
Because the 38mm panel carries the same resin and fibre architecture in both directions, engineers can order a single stock size and cut it on site to fit irregular platforms, stair landings and equipment surrounds without worrying about which way the bars run. This flexibility, combined with the roughly 18-22 kg/m2 weight that two installers can manhandle, is why the section has become the default replacement for rusting steel walkways in mild and moderately corrosive plants. ZeAllgrate keeps this thickness in stock in green, grey, yellow and orange, and can supply gritted or smooth finishes to match the anti-slip requirements of each area.
The 38mm panel is the workhorse of molded FRP grating. It is supplied in the standard 1220 x 3660 mm sheet and cut to fit on site.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Panel thickness | 38 mm |
| Self-weight | 18-22 kg/m2 (polyester, standard mesh) |
| Standard panel size | 1220 x 3660 mm |
| Typical opening | 38 x 38 mm (1.5 x 1.5 in) |
| Open area | approx. 70-75% |
| Recommended support span (pedestrian / light trolley) | 900-1200 mm |
| Resin options | Isophthalic polyester; vinyl ester for severe corrosion |
| Surface finish | Grit top (standard); smooth available |
| Standard colours | Green, grey, yellow, orange |
The 38mm section is specified across process industries wherever a general-purpose walkway, platform or stair tread is needed. Typical installations include refinery and chemical plant operating platforms, walkways between pipe racks, mezzanine floors in warehouses and factories, stair treads and landings, offshore and onshore oil-and-gas access ways, power station turbine-deck walkways, water and wastewater treatment works grating, pulp and paper mill walkways, marine docks and ship decks, and car-wash and vehicle-service pit covers. It also handles hand trucks, pallet jacks and occasional light maintenance traffic, which is why it is the default grid for general industrial flooring. The bi-directional construction means installers do not need to orient the panels in a specific direction, speeding up layout on irregular platforms.
Start with the 38mm panel for any standard pedestrian walkway with support centres up to about 1200 mm. If the area is purely foot traffic on close supports, the lighter 25mm panel saves cost. If you expect regular trolley or pallet-jack traffic, or need wider spans, move up to the 40mm heavy-duty section. Pair the 38mm grid with polyester resin for general plant use, or switch to vinyl ester where acids and caustics are present. For extremely long, high-load spans, compare with pultruded grating.
ZeAllgrate 38mm molded grating is manufactured under ISO 9001. Flame spread meets ASTM E84 and panel construction follows ASTM D3743 industry practice. Panels are inspected for resin coverage, grit uniformity and flatness before packing.
Support on steel or FRP stringers and fix with stainless C- or L-clips at every bearing bar intersection. Cut with a diamond or fine-tooth saw, deburr edges and seal cuts with resin. Provide not less than 25 mm bearing on supports.
Q: Why is 38mm the most popular size?
A: It is the best balance of weight, span and cost for ordinary industrial walkways and suits most pedestrian and light-trolley loads.
Q: Will 38mm grating take a pallet truck?
A: Occasional pallet-jack traffic is acceptable; for regular powered pallet trucks or forklifts specify 40mm/50mm or pultruded grating.
Q: Can panels be laid in either direction?
A: Yes. Molded grating is bi-directional, so panels perform the same whether laid with the grid aligned or rotated 90 degrees.
Q: What open area does the standard mesh give?
A: The 38 x 38 mm opening provides roughly 70-75% open area for drainage and light penetration.
Compare sizes: 25mm, 40mm heavy-duty, 50mm extra heavy. See our molded FRP grating page, standard mesh and mini-mesh options, plus applications in chemical plants and construction.