This document provides information on fiberglass production including: 1) There are four main methods for producing fiberglass: hand lay-up, spray lay-up, pultrusion, and chopped strand mat. 2) Fiberglass was accidentally discovered in the 1930s and was used as a replacement for plywood in aircraft during World War II. 3) The document focuses on Mahavir Enterprise, a manufacturer of fiberglass sheets in India, and describes their production process, applications, and health and safety considerations.

1. A Presentation on:
FIBER GLASS
PRODUCTION
-Group ‘E’
FY MBA

2. Introduction
 Fiberglass is a lightweight,
extremely strong, and robust
material.
 Fiberglass combines its light
weight with an inherent strength
to provide a weather resistant
finish with a variety of surface
textures.

3.  There are 4 methods by which fiberglass can be
made. They are:
 Fiberglass hand lay-up operation
 Fiberglass spray lay-up operation
 Pultrusion operation
 Chopped strand mat

4. History
 The history of modern
fiberglass really only
stretches back to the 1930s.
 Mass production of glass
strands was accidentally
discovered in 1932 by a
researcher at the Owens-
Illinois, who accidentally
directed a jet of
compressed air at a stream
of molten glass and
produced fiber.

5. Continue…
 A suitable resin for combining the fiberglass with a
plastic was developed in 1936.
 During the Second World War, it was developed as a
replacement for the molded plywood used in aircraft.

6. Company Profile
 The company, MAHAVIR ENTERPRISE, is engaged in
supplying high quality Fiberglass Sheets :
1. Designer Fiberglass Sheet
2. Plain Fiberglass Sheet
 This company deals with the sheets which are used only for
shedding and roofing purposes.

7. Some Facts about MAHAVIR ENT.
 Year of Establishment : 1990
 Legal Status of Firm : Sole Proprietorship
 Nature of Business : Manufacturer
 Number of Employees : 11 to 25 people
 Turnover : US$ 0.25-1 Million
(Rs.1-4 crores Approx.)

8. Inputs
 Fiberglass mat can be used
between layers of woven fabric
to help build thickness quickly
and aid in all layers bonding well
together.
 MEKP (Methyl Ethyl Ketone
Peroxide) is the catalyst added
to polyester resin. It is a clear
and colorless solution.

9. Continue…
 Polyester resins are the
most commonly used matrix
in the marine and
composite industry.
 Polyester film is useful for
making sheet. Polyester film
is reusable.

10. Production Process
 Plain Fiberglass sheet’s production starts with polyester film

11.  Then polyester resin is spread on the polyester film
 After the polyester resin is spread completely over the film,
fiber glass mat is applied over it.

12.  Over this arrangement,
polyester film is again laid
which gives strength and
support to the sheet.
 The air between the layers
is then removed with a
spatula-type object.

13.  It is allowed to dry for 7 to 8 hours so that it can take the
shape of the mould.

14.  When dried, the sheets
are given proper shape
with a cutter and edges
are smoothened.

15.  Designed fiberglass sheets
are made by adding many
other materials such as
agro net, bamboo sheet,
colored papers or cloth are
used.

17. Output
 These sheets are then transported locally or within the state
as per the client’s order.

18. Applications
 Telecommunications
 Making storage tanks
 Septic tanks
 House building, door
surrounds

19. Continue…
 Automotive industry
 Small watercrafts
 Fire water, sewage, wastewater and
drinking water systems.
 Gas system

20. Health Problems
 Workers are more likely to get affected by exposure to
fiberglass. Some of the problems are:
1. A rash can appear on skin.
2. Eyes may become red and irritated.
3. Temporary stomach irritation.
4. Soreness in the nose and throat.
 Smaller fibers have the ability to reach the lower part of the
lungs increasing the chance of adverse health effects.

21. Steps to reduce exposure
 Wear loose fitting, long-sleeved clothing and gloves.
 Wear a mask over the nose and mouth to prevent breathing
in the fibers.
 Wear goggles or safety glasses with side shields to
protect the eyes.
 Open a window or a door to increase ventilation and
reduce dust levels.
 Use a shop vacuum after wetting the dust and fibers.

22. Conclusion