Uncategorized Archives - Diamond Fiberglass

Visit Diamond Fiberglass at WEFTEC! Booth 6316

Mike Merrick — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 18:50:25 +0000

From the pipes beneath our cities to the technologies that protect our rivers, lakes and oceans, water touches everything we do. Once a year, the global water community gathers at WEFTEC to share solutions, spark innovation, and shape the future of clean water. And like the past 20 years, Diamond Fiberglass Sales & Service will be exhibiting at WEFTEC25, Sept 27th thru Oct 1st!

In Chicago this time, WEFTEC is one of the world’s largest and most important Water Treatment and Waste Water Treatment events. Over 20,000 attendees from more than 80 countries will walk through the equivalent of a dozen football fields to see the 1000+ exhibiting companies.

WEFTEC consistently brings together tens of thousands of water professionals – from municipal leaders and engineers to scientists, technology providers, and policy makers. Important topics this year include water recycling, AI-driven monitoring, PFAS removal, nutrient recovery, data center demands, smart infrastructure, climate change, urban growth, and new regulations.

If you are planning on attending WEFTEC25, please come see us in booth #6316! Our team will be on hand to discuss how Andronaco and Diamond Fiberglass provide Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) solutions that aid in the processing of water and wastewater treatment for numerous applications, including reverse osmosis, filtration, demineralization, coagulators, dewatering and disinfection.

About Diamond Fiberglass Systems and Services
Diamond Fiberglass Systems and Services has been delivering value to customers since 1986. Diamond manufactures quality, custom-engineered Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) tanks and vessels. The company also provides field services that include general maintenance, complex turnaround installations, emergency services, and on-site FRP tank inspections. Facilities are located in Texas and Louisiana. For more information about Diamond Fiberglass Systems and Services, please visit: diamondfiberglass.com, diamondservices.com, and fibrex.com.

About Andronaco
Founded in 1994, Andronaco Industries is a Total Systems Turnkey™ provider for demanding flow control and fluid management applications. Andronaco is unique in its ability to provide field services and to manufacture a broad product line consisting of multiple materials of construction. Products include lined valves, metallic and nonmetallic piping and fittings, expansion joints, hoses, system accessories, pumps, and process and storage FRP tanks and vessels. No other manufacturer in this space brings together end-to-end flow control and fluid management product needs in combination with field services for safe and reliable operations. For more information about Andronaco Industries, please visit: www.andronaco.com.

Total Systems Turnkey™ Approach
Andronaco Industries, supported by Diamond Fiberglass Systems and Services, is a Total Systems Turnkey™ provider for demanding flow control and fluid management applications. Andronaco and Diamond are unique in that we provide field services as well as manufacture a broad product line consisting of multiple materials of construction. Our products include lined metallic and nonmetallic piping and fittings, valves, expansion joints, hoses, system accessories, pumps, and vessels/tanks. No other manufacturer in this space brings together your end to-end product needs in combination with field services for your safe and reliable operations. To learn more about the Total Systems Turnkey™ Approach, please visit: The Total Systems Turnkey™ Portfolio.

For the most recent news and insights, connect with Andronaco Industries and Diamond Fiberglass on LinkedIn.

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The Big Beautiful Bill Act & U.S. Fabricated Engineered FRP Tanks

Mike Merrick — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 18:46:37 +0000

The Big Beautiful Bill Act, a significant federal infrastructure and economic stimulus initiative, is bringing a renewed focus on America’s infrastructure and business environment. For industrial facilities using corrosive liquids such as mineral mining, this legislation is an opportunity to upgrade to U.S. fabricated engineered fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) tanks.

An opportunity to replace inferior and aging tanks: U.S. fabricated engineered FRP tanks are considered state of the art when it comes to corrosive environments. Their ability to outlast other materials while providing lower lifetime costs is hard to ignore. FRP tanks offer a wide range of benefits over other storage systems materials:

Excellent Corrosion Resistance for harsh chemical or water treatment environments
Lightweight for easier transport and installation
Good Durability and Low Maintenance, reducing long-term operational costs

With billions in federal funding aimed at enhancing domestic manufacturing competitiveness, FRP tank systems are a smart choice for engineers, municipal planners, and industrial operators.

Environmental and Economic Benefits of FRP Tanks: The Big Beautiful Bill Act emphasizes American self-sufficiency provided by American businesses. U.S. fabricated engineered FRP tanks support this vision by:

Resisting chemical degradation and environmental wear
Reducing lifecycle costs through longer service life
Minimizing the carbon footprints of transportation and installation

FRP tanks stand out as a cost-effective, sustainable storage option.

The Big Beautiful Bill Act and U.S. Fabricated Engineered FRP Tanks: The combination of federal investment, sustainability goals, and American manufacturing mandates is encouraging a renewed look at engineered FRP tanks.

For the most recent news and insights, connect with Andronaco Industries and Diamond Fiberglass on LinkedIn.

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Engineered FRP Tanks: A Smart Solution for Modern Data Centers

Mike Merrick — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 18:18:53 +0000

As data centers continue to expand and evolve, so too does the need for reliable infrastructure to support their operations. One increasingly popular solution is the use of engineered fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) tanks. These tanks offer a range of benefits that align well with the demands of data center environments—especially in applications like cooling, water storage, and fire suppression.

Why Data Centers Need Reliable Tanks

Data centers generate enormous amounts of heat, and effective cooling is critical for maintaining equipment performance and uptime. Many facilities use liquid-based cooling systems that require the storage of chilled or deionized water. Additionally, fire protection systems and emergency preparedness plans often call for large volumes of water or chemical agents to be stored on-site.

Traditionally, storage tanks in these settings have been made from steel or concrete. While common, these materials come with drawbacks such as corrosion, weight, and limited flexibility. Engineered FRP tanks, by contrast, are designed to meet the unique performance and spatial needs of data centers.

Key Advantages of FRP Tanks

1. Corrosion Resistance:
FRP is inherently resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for storing deionized water, chemical fire suppressants, or greywater without risk of tank degradation or contamination.

2. Lightweight Yet Strong:
FRP tanks are much lighter than steel, simplifying transport and installation. This is especially valuable in facilities where tanks may need to be installed in tight or elevated spaces.

3. Design Flexibility:
FRP tanks can be custom fabricated in various shapes and sizes to fit specific building layouts or equipment configurations, offering unmatched flexibility in design.

4. Low Maintenance and Long Life:
With high resistance to chemicals, UV exposure, and temperature fluctuations, FRP tanks typically require minimal maintenance and offer a long service life—an essential feature in 24/7 operations.

5. Thermal Efficiency:
FRP provides natural insulation, which helps maintain fluid temperature in cooling systems, boosting efficiency and performance.

Applications in Data Centers

Chilled Water Storage: For air or liquid-based cooling systems.
Fire Suppression: For storing water or chemical agents used in emergency systems.
Rainwater or Greywater Storage: For sustainable water reuse in cooling towers or sanitation.

Built for Critical Infrastructure

Engineered FRP tanks are manufactured to meet rigorous standards such as ASTM, ASME RTP-1, and AWWA. Partnering with experienced suppliers ensures compliance and reliability in mission-critical applications.

The Future of Tank Systems in Data Centers

As data centers grow in scale and complexity, engineered FRP tanks offer a modern, cost-effective alternative to traditional materials. Their lightweight, corrosion-resistant construction, combined with customizability and long-term durability, makes them a strategic investment for today’s data center operators.

For the most recent news and insights, connect with Andronaco Industries and Diamond Fiberglass on LinkedIn.

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Diamond Fiberglass RTP-1 Certification: A Mark of Excellence in FRP Tanks and Vessel Manufacturing

Mike Merrick — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 13:50:54 +0000

In the world of industrial equipment, certification matters – especially when it comes to safety-critical components like tanks and vessels. The certification that stands out in the fabrication of non-metallic FRP tanks and vessels is the ASME RTP-1 designation.

But what does it really mean to be an RTP-1 fabricator? And why is it such a significant achievement in the industry? Let’s break it down.

What Is RTP-1? RTP-1 stands for Reinforced Thermoset Plastic, and the ASME RTP-1 standard sets the design, fabrication, and inspection requirements for FRP (Fiber-Reinforced Plastic) vessels. Unlike traditional steel vessels governed by the ASME Section VIII codes, RTP-1 focuses specifically on non-metallic vessels – especially those used in corrosive or sanitary environments.

These vessels are widely used in industries like:

- - Chemical processing
  - Water and wastewater treatment
  - Semiconductor manufacturing
  - Food & Beverage
  - Brine
  - Chlor Alkali

RTP-1 Proves Technical Mastery

Meeting the RTP-1 standard isn’t easy. It means the fabricator can design and build FRP tanks and vessels that meet stringent safety and quality requirements. This includes ensuring proper design, materials choice, laminate construction, and thorough 3^rd party inspection procedures.

RTP-1 Is Backed by ASME

ASME is a globally respected engineering organization. When a fabricator such as Diamond Fiberglass earns the ASME RTP-1 stamp, it shows that their operations have been independently evaluated and approved. It’s a level of assurance that no other credentials can match.

RTP-1 Delivers a Competitive Edge

In many industries, especially those where safety, purity, and chemical resistance are paramount, buyers often limit their choices to only RTP-1-certified fabricators. The certification sets those companies apart and opens doors to projects with higher technical demands.

RTP-1 Reflects a Commitment to Quality

Becoming an RTP-1 fabricator isn’t just about passing an inspection. It’s about building a culture of quality. From material traceability to in-process testing and documentation, certified fabricators operate with systems designed to deliver reliable, long-lasting vessels.

Real-World Applications

An RTP-1-certified fabricator can build custom FRP vessels capable of:

Withstanding demanding corrosive environments
Operating in sensitive manufacturing environments (e.g., cleanrooms or chemical plants)
Providing long service life without the risk of rust or contamination

This makes them ideal for applications where steel isn’t suitable, and where failure isn’t an option.

Final Thoughts

For Diamond Fiberglass, being an RTP-1 fabricator is more than just having a stamp. It’s a statement of engineering credibility, operational excellence, and industry leadership. Whether you’re sourcing FRP vessels for a high-spec project or looking to partner with a top-tier manufacturer, RTP-1 certification is a sign that you’re working with the best.

To learn more, please visit diamondfiberglass.com.

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Evaluating FRP Cure IV: Beyond Barcol to Differential Scanning Calorimetry

Mike Merrick — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 20:30:47 +0000

In previous months we discussed the use of Barcol Hardness testers to measure and quantify the degree of cure of fiber reinforced plastics (FRP). This month we finish the discussion of FRP cure with the most accurate method, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC).

This method uses a dynamic mechanical analyzer, shown in the photo above, to monitor and graph the temperature flow of the cured resin when it is heated or cooled. A trained technician performs this test in controlled laboratory conditions and compares the sample results with properly cured resin data provided by the resin manufacturer. The graph below is from a test performed on a laminate made with polyester resin.

In terms of convenience, cost and speed, Barcol testing is the clear winner. But Barcol testing is only reasonably accurate, whereas differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is very accurate. If Barcol test results are ambiguous or show a pattern of under cure, taking the next step and performing DSC testing is appropriate.

An important difference between Barcol testing and DSC testing is that while the latter is more accurate, it is destructive. Barcol testing does not normally injure the FRP part being tested. In DSC testing, a small sample coupon of the FRP part in question has to be removed to be tested, and the coupon is then discarded after the test. If the FRP is to be trimmed to shape after the laminate has cured, the trimmings may be DSC tested without effecting the actual FRP part. Same with any cut-outs that may be removed from the FRP as part of its later processing. Also, if it is known before lamination starts that DSC testing will be performed, it may be possible to laminate a test coupon at the same time as the FRP part is being laminated. This is allowed if all the same resins and fabrics are used the same ways in both the part and the coupon. However, in all cases of differential scanning calorimetry testing, the actual FRP part itself is not tested.

Attaining the proper cure of the resin in any FRP part is vital to attaining the desired physical properties. At Diamond Fiberglass, we Barcol test our FRP tanks often. Between the ease, low cost and speed of Barcol testing, and the accuracy of DSC testing, any FRP part can be tested to measure degree of cure.

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Evaluating FRP Cure III: Interpreting Barcol Hardness Tester Readings

Mike Merrick — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 16:51:09 +0000

Last month we described proper use of a Barcol Hardness Tester to get accurate hardness readings. This month we describe how to interpret Barcol Hardness Tester readings to develop an accurate evaluation of FRP cure.

Be aware that during a test, if the probe contacts a reinforcement fiber near the surface of the FRP, the gauge will read higher than if it had only contacted cured resin. This is especially true for laminates with a high fiber content. A synthetic veil reinforcement might be found in the corrosion liner of equipment intended for use in corrosive service and may cause the Barcol Hardness Tester readings to be 2-3 points lower. Also, normal irregularities in the surface may produce lower readings than if the probe had only contacted resin.

To prevent readings with issues such as the above from true hardness readings, exclude the highest and lowest readings and average the remaining readings. This average hardness is the number to compare to the resin manufacturer’s published hardness number, which appears on the resin manufacturer’s Technical Data Sheet for the resin being tested.

For example, let’s assume you want to know if the cure of an FRP tank has met the resin manufacturer’s specifications. You’ve used a Barcol Hardness Tester properly on the tank and recorded the readings as below:

Top – 38,36,35,38,38,34,44,36,35,30
Bottom – 36,36,34,39,38,34,35,36,35,30
Side – 33,35,28,39,38,34,35,39,35,34

Removing the highest and lowest readings and averaging the remainder:

Top – 31.5
Bottom – 35.5
Side – 35.4

If the average tester readings (as calculated above) in each cluster are higher than the resin manufacturer’s published full cure hardness, then full performance and service life of the FRP equipment can be reasonably expected. In this example, the resin manufacturer specified a hardness of 30 as properly cured, and in all three cluster tests performed above, the averaged readings exceeded 30.

However, if the Barcol Hardness Tester readings are below the resin manufacturer’s published full cure hardness readings, then full cure has not been achieved and full performance and service life of the FRP equipment cannot be expected. In such case, post curing the part with heat applied according to the resin manufacturer’s instructions may increase hardness sufficiently; if that doesn’t work, the FRP equipment may have to be replaced.

Next month we’ll discuss another method of testing FRP cure, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DCS) analysis.

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Evaluating FRP Cure II: Use of a Barcol Hardness Tester

Mike Merrick — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 19:43:56 +0000

Last month the Diamond Fiberglass blog post described the most common cure testing device for FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic) equipment, the Barcol Hardness Tester. This month’s blog post will describe proper use of the Barcol hardness tester to get accurate and usable data.

To maximize performance and service life of FRP equipment such as tanks or piping, the resin must achieve proper cure. Cure is expressed in hardness. Resin manufacturers publish hardness specifications; if the hardness of a certain FRP equipment is within the range provided by the resin manufacturer, it is said to have achieved proper cure and maximum performance, and service life can be expected.

The most used Barcol hardness tester is Model #934 from the Barcol-Coleman company. Before a Barcol tester is used on FRP, it should be checked for proper readings. The tester should be used on a known hardness material to confirm accuracy. Most testers are supplied with coupons of various hardnesses; the tester should indicate the correct hardness of the known hardness coupons. If it doesn’t then the tester cannot be used to measure hardness. Some Barcol hardness testers can be adjusted by the user to correct readings, but also there are Barcol certifier services that will calibrate testers to read hardness correctly. It may be obvious, but to maintain their accuracy, Barcol testers should not be mishandled or abused.

Using Barcol hardness testers properly requires cluster testing at multiple locations on the FRP item to get a clear picture of the cure of the entire part. The test surface should be clean, dry, and free of contaminants such as oil, dust, wax, etc. The FRP surface to be tested should be flat and thick enough to prevent deformation during testing. There must be reasonable access to the part surface so that the Barcol tester can be held firmly and perpendicular to the surface being tested. In addition, the FRP surface profile must have a range that does not exceed that of the tester’s probe. Most reinforcements used in FRP produce surface profiles that are within the range of most Barcol testers, so unless there are wrinkles in the fabric or other irregularities, surface profile is usually not a problem.

More accurate readings will be attained at room temperatures than in extreme hot or cold. Eventually the tip of the impressor will dirty or become dull; clean or replace as necessary.

To conduct an individual test, the Barcol hardness tester is simply pushed by hand against the FRP surface until the impressor “clicks” indicating it has probed the FRP surface properly and the measured hardness will appear on the tester’s gauge.

It is best if cluster testing can be conducted on the top, bottom and sides of the FRP equipment. If possible, test the inside, too. It is especially important to test secondary bonds, such as flanges or tabbings. Cluster test within a 3″ X 3″ (75mm x 75mm) area 10-12 times and record the readings. Each test should be in a slightly different location within the cluster test area; do not test in the exact same spot more than once.

Interested in finding out how to interpret Barcol readings in order to determine state of FRP cure? Read blog post here.

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Evaluating FRP Cure: Using a Barcol Tester

Mike Merrick — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 20:31:03 +0000

The resin in any equipment fabricated from FRP needs to attain a proper cure in order to reach its full physical properties. The most common and reliable way to determine cure stage is to use a Barcol tester. Diamond Fiberglass tests the FRP tanks and vessels it manufactures every day for proper cure. Barcol testers are easy and quick to use and are accepted in the industry as the most common way to confirm that proper cure has been attained. Manual dial and digital dial testers are available starting about $600.

A Barcol test of FRP material is a non-destructive method that measures the depth of penetration of a calibrated spring-loaded indenter into the surface of the material. The depth of the penetration is measured and compared to known depth penetrations of that particular resin when fully cured.

Resin manufacturers provide Barcol test readings for all their resins when fully cured.

The governing standard for the Barcol hardness test is ASTM D 2583. Barcol hardness is measured on a scale from 0 to 100 with the typical range being between 50B and 90B. A measurement of 60B is roughly equivalent to a Shore hardness of 80D or a Rockwell hardness M100. As defined in ASTM D 2583 the scale divisions from 0-100 should each indicate a depth of 0.0076 mm or the equivalent 0.0003 inches.

Like many other kinds of test equipment, Barcol testers should be calibrated by using a set of standard test discs with known hardness values. The Barcol tester is used on test discs and the readings compared to the known test disc hardness. The Barcol tester is then adjusted if needed achieve the correct readings.

Interested in finding out more information on the proper barcol testing procedure? Read the following blog post.

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Diamond Systems & Services ASME RTP-1 FRP Tanks Since 2009

Mike Merrick — Wed, 18 Dec 2024 18:16:45 +0000

Diamond Systems & Services – ASME RTP-1 FRP Tanks Since 2009

Only a small percentage of FRP tank and pipe fabricators in North America have attained ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) RTP-1 certification. This certification is the most comprehensive in the industry; only top-tier fabricators have been able to attain it. Diamond Systems & Services has been re-certified as an RTP-1 FRP tank and vessel fabricator in accordance with ASME standards since 2009
(26 years!).

Diamond Fiberglass Systems & Services utilizes rigorous shop procedures, documentation requirements, and quality assurance procedures to maintain its certification. RTP-1 is not easy or inexpensive to attain, nor is the process fast; however, Diamond believes being certified reflects our dedication to meeting demanding specifications.

Beware; some competing fabricators claim their shop is RTP-1 capable and their equipment meets RTP-1 standards, but in reality, they are not RTP-1 certified. Their workers and facilities are not RTP-1 certified, nor have they passed the required company-wide third-party audit.

Congratulations to the engineers, production staff and quality assurance teams at Diamond Fiberglass for achieving this accomplishment!

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Evaluating Fabricators of Engineered FRP Tanks and Pipes

Mike Merrick — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 22:05:04 +0000

Which fabricator is the best choice for your engineered FRP tanks and pipes?

If the answer that comes to your mind is “The lowest cost provider!” then maybe you could use some help. There are important considerations besides cost. When you don’t purchase engineered FRP tanks and pipes often, it is a hard to know how to answer that question. Here’s some ideas:

How long have they been in business? If you’re specifying complex or large engineered products, look for a fabricator in business at least 10 years. For less demanding projects, a fabricator in business at least 5 years is probably safe.

How many assets similar to what you need have they manufactured, and how recently? Make sure your project is in their “wheelhouse”, meaning they won’t be using your project to learn how to manufacture it! For example, If you need large diameter FRP pipe, find fabricators that supply such pipe often. A good fabricator will be able to provide case studies of FRP tanks and pipes they fabricated recently that were similar to yours.

Diamond Fiberglass FRP Piping System

Have they proven they can meet exacting specifications? If your project requires fabricators to meet lengthy and/or detailed specifications, find fabricators that routinely meet such specs. If you are replacing an FRP asset with a new one, was the old one successfully manufactured to the same specifications, and who fabricated it?

Try to find references for fabricators you are considering. One way is to simply search a fabricator’s name online, looking for customers or consultants you can contact. Ask these references if they would hire the same fabricator for the same project again.

If you are receiving quotes, analyze their pricing structure for transparency and honesty. Ensure the estimate includes all aspects of production, delivery, and support to avoid hidden fees.

For more information on how Diamond Fiberglass Systems and Services is the best choice for your next engineered FRP project, please contact diamondfiberglass.com.

About Andronaco
Founded in 1994, Andronaco Industries is a Total Systems Turnkey™ provider for demanding flow control and fluid management applications. Andronaco is unique in its ability to provide field services and to manufacture a broad product line consisting of multiple materials of construction. Products include lined valves, metallic and nonmetallic piping and fittings, expansion joints, hoses, system accessories, pumps, and process and storage vessels/tanks. No other manufacturer in this space brings together end-to-end flow control and fluid management product needs in combination with field services for safe and reliable operations. For more information about Andronaco Industries, please visit: www.andronaco.com.

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