GRP Pultruded Profiles

Manufactured from a high strength glass-reinforced polymer, our GRP pultruded profiles are strong, durable and lightweight components. They are ideal accompaniments to our GRP grating and handrail systems when creating load-bearing walkways, platforms and access structures.

Our profiles are widely used in structural and industrial applications where traditional materials such as steel may be unsuitable due to weight, corrosion, or electrical conductivity concerns.

GRP Profile Range

The Barclay & Mathieson range of GRP Pultruded Profiles is generally manufactured in accordance with EN 13706 and supplied in 6-metre lengths from stock.

All our profiles are lightweight, easy to handle and suitable for cutting on site. We supply cut-to-size components on request.

Box Sections
I-Beams
H-Beams
C-Channels
Angle Sections
Rods
Flats
Handrail
Round Tubes
Kick Plates

Structural Grades: E17 and E23

GRP pultruded profiles are classified by modulus grade, which defines stiffness (longitudinal tensile modulus of elasticity).

The difference between E17 and E23 is stiffness, not strength. Both grades may achieve similar strength performance depending on design, with E23 providing improved resistance to deflection under load.

BS EN 13706 Minimum Property Requirements

Property	Units	E23 Grade	E17 Grade
Full section modulus	GPa	23	17
Tensile strength (axial)	MPa	240	170
Tensile strength (transverse)	MPa	50	30
Tensile modulus (axial)	GPa	23	17
Tensile modulus (transverse)	GPa	7	5
Flexural strength (axial)	MPa	240	170
Flexural strength (transverse)	MPa	100	70
Inter-laminar shear	MPa	25	15
Pin bearing strength	MPa	70	50

E23 Grade

Our pultruded profiles generally conform to the higher E23 grade.

Suitable for primary structural elements where stiffness, span capability, and serviceability limits are critical.
Greater than 5 mm wall thickness - typically E23
Minimum modulus: 23 GPa
Higher stiffness
Preferred for structural applications requiring reduced deflection and greater rigidity

E17 Grade

Suitable for general-purpose structures, moderate spans, and applications with relaxed deflection limits.
3-5 mm wall thickness - typically E17
Minimum modulus: 17 GPa
Lower stiffness
Suitable for general-purpose and lighter-duty applications.
Appropriate where deflection requirements are less critical

Key Advantages of GRP Pultruded Profiles

GRP structural profiles offer a wide range of performance benefits:

High strength-to-weight ratio
Up to 75% lighter than steel and 30% lighter than aluminium
Excellent corrosion resistance in aggressive environments
Maintenance-free performance (no painting or surface treatment required)
Low thermal conductivity
Electrically non-conductive
Electromagnetic transparency (suitable for RF/microwave applications)
Excellent dimensional stability under load and temperature variation
Thermal stability up to 65°C continuous service
Quick and easy to install

Applications

GRP pultruded profiles are widely used in:

Walkways and access platforms
Stairways and ladders
Bridges and support structures
Industrial and marine environments
Electrical and utility installations

Technical Support

Our technical team advises on the correct profile type, size, and configuration to meet your structural and safety performance requirements. Call us on 0114 254 3220.

Contact Us

Versatile GRP Profiles for Creating Complete Access Walkways and Structures