The use of FiReP^® GRP rock bolts in mines is increasing from year to year and GRP rock bolting is becoming one of most common support system in worldwide mining industries. With the introduction of FiReP^® GRP rock bolt systems, the choice of GRP rock bolts has expanded and new applications have been made possible. Today, most GRP rock bolts are used in coal mines because they provide the necessary support, but can easily be cut and do not impede the excavation of coal.

CUTTABILITY IN MINING

Cuttable rock bolts and dowels have been used for a long time in the form of Bongossi dowels, wood-FRP and steel-FRP combination or as injection moulded plastic dowels. With all these products there is a price to be paid for cuttability in form of compromised strength, reuced availability of lengths and anchor head design. FiReP^® GRP rock bolt systems offer a fully developed range of GRP rock bolts, which are well adjusted to support the modern extraction methods. All system parts are made of plastic and designed to suit the needs of the user’s cutting method without compromise. High tensile strength, easy handling even under the most confined conditions, low weight and a bolt surface free of protruding and skin-irritating glass fibers translate the products into the state of economy, security and user-friendliness.

ANTISTATIC COATING

Generally FRP-rock bolts can become charged with static electricity during transportation or handling, which can cause dangerous sparks. FiReP^® GRP rock bolts are available with a special antistatic coating to prevent charge buildup.

MORE ADVANTAGES

Since all parts of the FiReP^® GRP rock bolt systems are manufactured from fiber glass reinforced plastics, the spoil material does not contain any disturbing metal parts, which would otherwise have to be removed in expensive processes or can damage conveyors and removal systems.
FiReP^® GRP rock bolt systems are corrosion resistant and can be used for permanent roadway support without the necessity of periodically replacement of corroded steel bolts. Even aggressive environments do not reduce the life expectation of FRP bolts.
FiReP^® GRP rock bolts weigh only 25% of regular steel bolts, a fact that simplifies transport and saves cost. Due to these characteristics and the high quality, FiReP^® rock bolts are the first, certified by British coal mines. The system is also used in large number of bolts in German coal mine as well as in several European mines for sole bolt support at the coal faces.