Project Specs:
Location: Merritt, Michigan
Application: FRP Walkway over the Reedsburg Dam
Product: Aqua Grate® Pultruded Grating
Overview
Located in eastern Missaukee County, Michigan, this non-hydroelectric dam has a pedestrian bridge that is used to cross the Muskegon River and access a state forest campground. The campground is known for bird watching, fishing, swimming, and canoeing.
Problem
After exposure to both the elements and moisture from the river flowing underneath the bridge, the steel walkway used to access to the state forest campground deteriorated and needed to be replaced. Because the bridge is located over a river, the walkway is often wet. The frequent exposure to water makes this environment moderately corrosive. Furthermore, this bridge needed to be safe for campers and swimmers.
Solution
The dam and walkway were renovated in 2019, and the contractor, Cadillac Fabrication, selected Fibergrate’s Aqua Grate® Pultruded Grating with an isophthalic polyester resin formulation (ISOFR) for the pedestrian bridge. This grating is designed for foot traffic. The aquagrit surface of Fibergrate’s Aqua Grate pultruded grating will increase pedestrian safety by providing a slip-resistant surface that is comfortable for barefoot traffic. While the original steel bridge often got too hot to walk on without shoes, Fibergrate’s FRP grating has low thermal conductivity resulting in a more comfortable walking surface with or without shoes (even during a hot summer day after several hours of sun exposure).
The corrosion resistance of Fibergrate’s fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) products made this the perfect fit for the wet environment. The walkway will not require constant maintenance and will have a long service life compared to traditional products.
The community from Missaukee County can enjoy this bridge for years to come! This project was a very positive experience for both Cadillac Fabrication and Fibergrate, and it opened the door for a second project immediately as this one concluded.
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