How Do Production Processes Differ Between GRC Manufacturers?

In the field of architectural decoration materials, GRC (Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete) has become the ideal choice for many high-end building projects thanks to its advantages of light weight, high strength, and flexible shaping. However, differences in production processes among GRC manufacturers directly affect product quality and project outcomes, which is a core concern for designers and developers during product selection. Qinglong Group, with 28 years of industry experience and deep expertise in full-chain services for UHPC/GRC/GRG/GRP materials, today provides an in-depth analysis of the key differences in GRC production processes to support project decision-making.

1. Raw Material Selection: Differentiation in the Foundation of Quality

The production of high-quality GRC begins with strict control of raw materials. Industry-leading GRC manufacturers such as Qinglong use high-grade sulphoaluminate cement or ordinary Portland cement, combined with alkali-resistant glass fibres (such as rovings with a zirconia content ≥16%), and ensure uniform fibre dispersion through precise proportioning. In contrast, some small manufacturers may use low-grade cement or inferior glass fibres, resulting in insufficient flexural strength (high-quality GRC can reach over 20MPa in flexural strength, while inferior products are often below 10MPa). In addition, Qinglong has established a comprehensive raw material testing system; every batch of materials must pass tests for mechanical properties, weather resistance, and other indicators, safeguarding the durability of GRC components at the source. For more industry information: +WeChat qlfsbl123

2. Forming Processes: The Balance Between Efficiency and Precision

GRC forming processes are mainly divided into the spray-up method, premix casting method, and press moulding method; a manufacturer's choice of process directly reflects its technical strength. Qinglong adopts an automated spray-up forming process, uniformly mixing glass fibres and cement mortar through high-pressure spray guns, combined with vacuum degassing technology to ensure component density and surface flatness. This process is especially suitable for customized shapes such as complex double-curved surfaces and openwork reliefs, with a minimum curvature radius controllable within 300mm. In contrast, some manufacturers still use manual casting, which not only results in low production efficiency but is also prone to defects such as fibre clumping and air bubbles, affecting the product's mechanical performance and aesthetics.

3. Curing Technology: A Key Link in Performance Stability

The curing process is what guarantees GRC strength development and stability. Qinglong has introduced constant temperature and humidity curing kilns, combining steam curing with natural curing so that components reach design strength within a 28-day age period while effectively controlling shrinkage cracks. Some manufacturers, however, adopt non-standard curing methods such as rapid drying to shorten construction schedules, resulting in insufficient later-stage strength and poor frost resistance, which easily leads to cracking in cold northern regions. The Technical Standard for Building Application of Glass Fibre Reinforced Cement (GRC) (JGJ/T423-2018), which Qinglong participated in developing, clearly standardizes the curing process—another important distinction between leading industry enterprises and ordinary manufacturers.

4. Quality Control: Demonstrating Strength Through Full-Chain Quality Management

Mature GRC manufacturers have full-process quality control systems. Taking Qinglong as an example, from the application of BIM technology in the detailed design stage, to 3D scanning and positioning during production, to flexural and impact performance testing before delivery, every step follows strict standards. For example, Qinglong equips large projects with a dedicated quality traceability system, using RFID chips to record component production information and ensure traceable accountability. In contrast, some manufacturers lack systematic quality control and rely solely on manual visual inspection, making it difficult to guarantee product consistency and increasing project construction risks.

5. Customization Capability: Service Differences from Design to Delivery

High-end building projects demand an extremely high level of GRC customization, which tests a manufacturer's comprehensive service capability. As a national-level high-tech enterprise with a provincial R&D centre, Qinglong provides clients with “one-stop” services from scheme deepening and parametric design to on-site installation. For example, in the Dongguan Women and Children's Activity Center project, Qinglong used Grasshopper parametric modelling to perfectly achieve the precise implementation of complex curved GRC curtain walls, winning the Silver Award of the AALBORG WHITE Cup GRC Construction Engineering Innovation Award. In contrast, some manufacturers can only produce standardized components and struggle to meet customization needs for special shapes and oversized dimensions, limiting the realization of designers' creativity. For more industry information: +WeChat qlfsbl123

When choosing a GRC manufacturer, process differences are by no means simple technical details—they directly affect project quality, cost, and delivery timelines. Qinglong Group has focused on the UHPC/GRC/GRG/GRP materials field for 28 years. With the mission of “Creating Beautiful Architecture,” it provides reliable support for over one thousand major projects worldwide through advanced processes and full-chain services. Whether for the special-shaped curtain walls of landmark buildings or the artistic components of cultural venues, only by choosing a GRC manufacturer with strong technical capabilities can design visions be perfectly realized.