With the continuous evolution of composite material technologies, FRP panels (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic panels), known for their lightweight, corrosion resistance, and high strength, are widely used in industries such as construction, chemicals, and transportation. Whether it's the fiberglass panels on factory roofs or corrosion-resistant linings in laboratory fume hoods, precise cutting is a critical step in ensuring the quality of the project. This article will systematically explore the core techniques of how to cut FRP panels, from tool selection to cutting procedures, safety protocols, and more, helping professionals efficiently complete their processing tasks.

1. Tool Selection: Key to Matching Material Properties

1.1 Power Tools: Balancing Efficiency and Precision

Diamond Blade: Suitable for handheld angle grinders or vertical cutting machines, the high-speed rotation reduces the risk of fiber delamination. It is recommended to use a dry-wet blade, paired with a cooling system to reduce dust pollution.

Fine-Tooth Bandsaw: With a carbide-tipped blade and a tooth spacing of less than 3mm, this saw minimizes edge burrs, making it particularly useful for cutting curves. Ensure the feed speed is controlled at 0.5–1 meter per minute to prevent resin melting due to excessive friction.

Waterjet Cutter: For high-precision industrial applications, the cold-cutting technology avoids heat-affected zones. However, this equipment is costly and requires a custom solution through a professional composite supplier.

1.2 Manual Tools: Flexible Solutions for Small-Scale Operations

FRP Shears: Suitable for sheets with a thickness of ≤3mm, offering clean cuts but with slower processing speed.

Scoring Knife: Used with a ruler to score the material before snapping along the line, ideal for environments without electrical power.

2. Cutting Process: Step-by-Step Operations to Minimize Errors

2.1 Preparation: Measurement and Marking

Use a wear-resistant marking pen to draw cutting lines on the surface, marking both sides to avoid visual deviations. For curved or irregular components, it's recommended to create templates from cardboard to improve the accuracy of complex shapes.

2.2 Core Cutting Techniques: Minimizing Delamination and Burrs

Cutting Direction: Cut along the direction of the fiber layers to reduce the risk of edge cracking. For bidirectional woven structures, prioritize cutting parallel to the main fiber direction.

Pressure Control: For power tools, maintain consistent speed to avoid sudden pressure that could cause fiber breakage. For manual tools, use leverage to apply force evenly.

Auxiliary Materials: Apply painter's tape along the cutting lines to minimize edge chipping and prevent resin debris from splashing.

2.3 Post-Processing: Refining the Edges

Sanding and Polishing: Use 80-120 grit sandpaper to remove burrs, and employ rotary files or belt sanders for complex cut surfaces.

Resin Edge Sealing: Mix epoxy resin with a hardener and apply to the cut edges to seal fiber voids, enhancing moisture resistance.

3. Safety Protocols: Full-Process Management from Protection to Environmental Considerations

3.1 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Respiratory Protection: Wear an N95-grade dust mask to avoid inhaling fiberglass dust.

Eye and Skin Protection: Use safety goggles and long-sleeve gloves to prevent cuts from debris. It is recommended to use nitrile gloves for enhanced grip.

3.2 Dust Control Techniques

Wet Cutting: Utilize a water spray system to suppress dust dispersion while reducing tool temperature. Ensure water is cleared promptly to prevent electrical equipment short circuits.

Vacuum Dust Collection System: In industrial workshops, connect a vacuum cleaner directly to the cutting tools, with filtration efficiency meeting the HEPA H13 standard.

3.3 Waste Disposal Recommendations

Cutting waste should be sealed in designated containers to prevent environmental pollution. Collaborate with local certified recyclers, as some composite suppliers offer material recycling services, reducing solid waste disposal costs.

4. Supplier Collaboration: Optimizing Material and Process Compatibility

4.1 Customizing Panel Specifications

Inform the composite supplier about the application scenario (e.g., load-bearing requirements, temperature tolerance) in advance, and select pre-cut services to reduce on-site processing. For large-scale installation projects, request standard-sized Fiberglass Panels to reduce joint waste.

4.2 Technical Support and Training

Some suppliers provide a cutting parameters database, offering recommended feed speeds for different thicknesses and resin compositions. Participate in hands-on training sessions organized by suppliers to master the latest tools, such as laser-assisted cutting systems.

Conclusion: Precision Cutting Empowering the Expansion of FRP Applications

From traditional construction to new energy equipment, the processing precision of FRP panels directly impacts project safety and service life. Through scientific tool selection, standardized procedures, and strengthened safety measures, even small and medium-sized teams can efficiently handle complex cutting tasks. As composite supplier technical services deepen, the threshold for processing FRP panels will continue to lower, driving this high-performance material to replace metals and traditional plastics in more industries.