Introduction to Utility Identification Products by Carsonite

What is Carsonite?

Carsonite material is a composite, made from glass-fiber reinforced polymers. The major difference between Carsonite composites and other polymer products (non-reinforced plastics) is the fiber reinforcement. Consider concrete as an example: it is a mixture of Portland cement, rock, sand and steel rebar. Without the steel reinforcement, concrete is limited in its design life and long-term durability. Likewise, non-reinforced polymers are limited in their ability to carry loads, and are not as strong or predictable in performance as a reinforced composite.

The unique reinforced composite construction of Carsonite products offer many advantages over other materials such as plastic, metal, or wood. Carsonite composites, as opposed to metal and wood, are distinctive in their ability to flex above ground level. Test results prove Carsonite products exhibit a 20-year life cycle, unlike non-reinforced polymers, which have a limited life. Carsonite markers will not rust, rot, or fade, embrittle in the cold, or soften in the heat. Carsonite markers are pigmented throughout, with permanent colors that resist discoloration due to ultraviolet exposure. Clearly, Carsonite composites are beyond compare.

How Carsonite Does It ...

First, high-strength glass fibers are drawn through a bath of hi-performance thermosetting resin. These materials are pulled into heated, precision ground dies where the resin cures, forming a composite of exceptional strength. The finished composite continues to a cut-off saw and optional decals and anchors are applied as a final step before shipping.

Carsonite International stands behind their composite utility marking products with a Fifteen (15) Year Warranty. We are the only supplier that can do this because of our proven track record. Our commitment to providing you the most cost effective and complete line of composite utility markers and accessories is unmatched in the industry. After using Carsonite products, you will agree that Carsonite is the only way to go when you want the best in composite utility marking products.

Carsonite Composite Composition

Carsonite's patented composite composition provides a combination of strength, flexibility, and durability. This unique construction of fiberglass, marble, and thermosetting polymers will not rust like metal, rot like wood, or fade like most plastics. It will not become brittle in the cold or soften in the heat. Carsonite markers are guaranteed to provide the most weather, impact, and vandal resistant flexible marker available today.

Uniform A.P.W.A. Color Coding

Carsonite offers a full line of utility markers available in A.P.W.A. specified colors. Carsonite pioneered the introduction and widespread use of vertical warning messages. This format was developed to efficiently use the maximum display area for a message. All Carsonite decals meet D.O.T. (Department of Transportation) specifications and are R.E.A. (Rural Electrification Association), Office of Safety Operations approved. Custom and standard decals are available for any utility application.