Looking For Fiberglass Fabrication Near Me? CTI Can Help.

As you seek out fiberglass fabrication near me, check out these tips about the process. Call CTI at 419-924-5566 for more!

What is fiberglass fabrication?

When people think of fiberglass, they may automatically jump to insulation. While that is one of the most common uses for fiberglass, it’s certainly not the only one. In actuality, fiberglass is made of glass—and more specifically, the kind of glass used for kitchen windows. However, in order to fabricate fiberglass, you must first heat it then push it through extremely fine holes. The resulting glass filaments are so thin that fiberglass fabricators measure them in microns.

If you’re looking up “fiberglass fabrication near me”, chances are that you’re seeking out third party fabrication. This is understandable—the fiberglass fabrication process is quite precise. The next step for many business owners, after procuring fiberglass, is fiberglass lamination. Fiberglass is one of the most common products with which contract manufacturing laminators work.

What do fiberglass fabricators do?

Fiberglass fabricators, of course, handle fiberglass fabrication. They do so, typically, to not only provide insulation but laminates. Some of the most common fiberglass laminated products include:

• Windows
• Boats
• Roofing
• Aircraft
• Bathtubs

Once you properly fabricate fiberglass, you can use it in conjunction with a large laminator machine. The laminate machine takes the fiberglass to the next level, moving it from a simple product to its actual application. While you may source fiberglass from a fabricator, you can move on to a different provider for laminating services. You may not have a thermal laminating machine on hand—but a third party manufacturer will.

What are the three types of fiberglass?

Naturally, when a product like fiberglass serves so many purposes, it comes with multiple variations. A few of the most common types of fiberglass include:

A-glass. Sometimes referred to as alkali glass, we rely on this option for its resistance to chemicals. You can compare it to window glass. When outside the United States, we most often use it for process equipment.

C-glass. Consider C-glass chemical glass. Like A-glass, it’s perhaps more valued for its resistance to chemical damage. Fiberglass products tend to experience a great deal of pressure, much of it chemical. Therefore, the more chemical resistance you can get out of fiberglass, the better.

E-glass. Also known as electric glass. Why do we call it that? E-glass is a great insulator of electricity.

Although these are the most common forms of fiberglass, you may come across less well-known options like:

AE-glass. This form of glass is resistant to alkali.

S-glass. You may also see this referred to as structural glass, and we usually use it for its mechanical properties.

Though you’ll note the key differences between these types of fiberglass, you can potentially source them from the same fiberglass fabricator. However, it’s important to note that when you search online for fiberglass fabrication near me, you shouldn’t settle for the first option off the bat. You need to do your research on your options before making a final decision.

One of the best things you can do is consult with an expert in the field—and among the best fiberglass experts are laminators. At CTI, we not only provide lamination services, but the expertise you need to make decisions about fiberglass fabrication. You need experienced, reliable providers, and that’s what we’re here for.

One thing you should familiarize yourself with, however, is working with a third party manufacturer.

What is a third party manufacturer?

A third party manufacturer is essentially a manufacturer through whom you’re outsourcing production. Rather than handling manufacturing in your own facilities and with your own employees, you’ll pay the third party to do it for you. Many business owners choose this route, some of their reasons including:

• Again, you’re not investing in those permanent facilities, employees, and equipment. In the long term, this will usually save you money.
• You don’t have to worry about learning the necessary processes. Nor is there as much trial and error. An experienced third party can provide you with the results you need faster, with far fewer bumps in the road.
• As we keep saying, reliability is key. An experienced manufacturer allows you to avoid the mistakes and flaws that beginners run into.

For most business owners, the decision comes down to two different types of third parties: contract manufacturers and toll manufacturers.

What’s the difference between contract manufacturing and toll manufacturers?

The differences between these two options are fairly straightforward.

When selecting contract manufacturing, you don’t have to worry about any part of the production process. The third party handles everything, including the procurement of raw materials. You’re still involved in the process, consulting with the manufacturer and remaining up to date at all times. However, there’s generally less for you to worry about.

Toll manufacturing offers you a bit more involvement, though you’re also maintaining some of the work. In this case, you procure the raw materials before the manufacturer gets to work.

Can third parties offer advice on finding fiberglass fabrication near me?

Yes! When you work with the right third party manufacturer for processes like lamination, you can ask questions about fiberglass fabrication and get the advice you need.

Ready to start? Contact CTI here or call us at 419-924-5566. We can offer our expertise anytime!