Fiberglass modules provide a lightweight, lower-cost alternative to steel-constructed offshore modules for locations that don’t require classification certifications. When working offshore, there are facilities, such as fixed platforms or barges, that operate in locations that do not require fire ratings, blast ratings, or third-party certification. These locations can take advantage of the benefits that fiberglass modules offer. Fiberglass modules are also an alternative to a traditional trailer and skid housing/officing units used in land applications.

Armoda offers modular solutions for additional housing, officing, and workshop spaces. For projects that don’t require third-party certifications (like ABS, USCG, DNV), a custom fiberglass module might be the right solution. In this article, we will go over what fiberglass modules are, where they are deployed, and the unique benefits they offer over other building materials.

What are Fiberglass Modules?

Fiberglass modules provide a range of layouts to support projects in remote locations. They are constructed using a wood structure with a fiberglass exterior applied to protect against the marine environment. The wood fiberglass structure is built on a steel skid foundation that wraps around the module and allows the module to be transported by winch trucks and lifted by cranes.

What types of fiberglass modules are there?

The modules come in many different layouts and sizes. Their sizes range from smaller single-room units at 8’ x 10’ to larger multi-room units at 50’ x 36’. They come in standard types that include:

• Sleeper Modules
• Galley
• Diner
• Offices
• Workshops
• Recreation Room
• Medic Room
• Restroom
• Utility
• Storage
• Electrical Enclosures

What are fiberglass modules used for?

These modules provide mobile solutions for projects requiring additional structures for Living Quarters, Man Camps, Workforce Housing, Officing, Storage, and more.

Where are fiberglass modules deployed?

Fiberglass modules are mainly deployed to non-rated/non-classed safe areas for onshore and offshore applications. The primary use is adding additional accommodations to fixed platforms in the offshore oil and gas industry. For land-based projects, fiberglass modules are often used to support coastline operations in marine environments for oil and gas and petrochemical facilities, as well as shipyards and port facilities.

Benefits of Fiberglass Modules

Lower Cost of Fiberglass vs. Steel options

The manufacturing process for fiberglass modules uses materials that are not as costly as steel modules. While there is some steel used in the construction and manufacturing of fiberglass modules, it is at a significantly reduced amount when compared to traditional steel modules. This reduction in material costs is then passed along to the customer, which results in lower-cost options for these modules.

Lightweight Fiberglass Modules

Fiberglass modules offer a lighter-weight alternative to steel modules. Their weight allows them to be used where heavier steel modules cannot be accommodated, like locations with limited lifting capacity.

Flexible Layouts / Footprint of Fiberglass Modules

The construction of the module allows for a wide range of options for building dimensions. This flexibility means that a custom design can be developed to suit almost any need. If larger complexes are required, then multiple units can be stacked together, or a multi-section, consisting of multiple fiberglass modules linked together, can be provided. 

Fiberglass Modules are Easy to Transport and Can Use Less Space

The skid design provides the ability to load and unload the modules at locations that do not have access to a crane. Instead, winch trucks transport the modules and make for quick and efficient loading and unloading, especially for onshore applications. The skid also enables the modules to be stacked on top of one another, giving them an advantage over traditional land trailers and skid houses. Stacking is helpful for locations that have a limited amount of space available for the modules. In addition, it allows for significantly increasing the number of modules while keeping the overall footprint as small as possible.

Multiple Applications of Fiberglass Modules

Their high wind ratings make them great options for providing facilities for offshore fixed platforms as well as onshore coastline operations. Fiberglass modules provide a lightweight, lower-cost alternative to steel modules for offshore locations that don’t require classification certifications. For onshore locations, they provide an easily transportable solution that can scale vertically to increase the number of units while minimizing the overall footprint at the site. Not sure if your project requires certified modules? We've written about the most common offshore certifications. 

And, if you think a fiberglass module is the solution for your project, contact us today to talk about options or to get a project started.