A common belief among engineers and facility designers is that coated stainless steel vent pipe is more expensive than FRP duct alternatives. While the upfront material costs of fiberglass may appear slightly cheaper on estimates, it is most important to compare equivalent systems, such as the resin and service type of FRP duct, and to include an evaluation of system installation time and cost.
Whether it's flange or PSP-EZ™ Clamp style joints, the cost and time savings of installing PSP® fluoropolymer coated stainless steel duct versus butt and wrap FRP is significant. The video below clearly demonstrates this factor:
Unlike fluoropolymer coated stainless steel, fiberglass reinforced plastic requires an internal corrosion wrap and extended time to "heat cure" each joint. Fiberglass is also sensitive to weather and temperature fluctuations during the installation process, which can create unanticipated delays or defects. PSP® coated stainless steel duct is not affected by ambient temperature or humidity during assembly and install. Additionally, if fiberglass duct is assembled using flanges this will significantly increase the per foot cost of labor for the system, as hand laid-up FRP flanges are very expensive.
Mechanical contractors who have worked with both systems have claimed that coated stainless steel duct can be installed in half the time of FRP. As the diameters get larger, the labor savings also increase.
If you would like more information about PSP® corrosive fume vent pipe and duct, please feel free to download our general information guide below:
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Read More About The Advantages of PermaShield Pipe vs FRP Duct Here