GRP for Rail & Light Rail

Rail and light-rail infrastructure is one of the most demanding environments to build in. Works are typically carried out during short overnight possessions, next to live overhead lines and to high safety standards for both passengers and trackside crews. GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) has quickly become a preferred material in trackside structures because it solves several of these challenges at once.

Byggkomposit supplies GRP structures to Swedish and Nordic rail projects — from station platforms and platform extensions to cable ladders, trackside walkways and handrailing around bridges and tunnel portals. The material is approximately 30% of steel's weight, does not conduct electricity and can be installed without welding. That means a track contractor can install or swap sections in a single overnight possession — something that would have required several nights in steel.

GRP applications in rail and metro

Station platforms

GRP station platform panels are a modular system that lets contractors build or extend platforms in record time. Sections come pre-fabricated with built-in cable routes, tactile paving and safety markings — a platform can be completed in days rather than weeks. The anti-slip surface is permanent and meets accessibility standards.

Handrailing trackside, bridges and tunnels

GRP handrailing is used as fall protection along track, rail bridges and at tunnel portals. Because the material does not conduct electricity, handrails can sit close to overhead lines without arcing risk assessments. They are also light enough to be carried into place without a crane — essential when working between tracks without blocking adjacent lines.

Cable ladders and trackside walkways

GRP pultruded profiles and composite cable ladders are used across the Swedish rail network for signalling and power cables. The material is electrically neutral, does not corrode outdoors and easily withstands the mechanical vibration generated by train passages in the formation.

Metro and tramway

In metro and tramway environments, GRP is used as trackside walkways, depot platforms and tunnel inspection routes. Fire-rated grades meet the requirements of EN 45545 for underground rail traffic.