Trench and Channel Covers close up and make safe channels that hold cables, telecoms ducts, pipes of all kind end even just water. Storm water covers or grids have openings to let water into channels for taking away.
From a cover point of view, what is inside the channel is not as important as what goes on top of the cover. This is the load and, depending on the application, it can vary from nothing to massive. Some covers carry only their own weight while others are installed in roadways where they have to bear high frequency heavy vehicle wheel loads at speed. The worst cases for channel covers are the air side of airports and on shipping docks.
With channel covers, what you see is NOT what you get. The only visible part is usually just the top surface. All covers look good at first. What is not apparent is the concrete quality, the reinforcing steel and the thickness. Those are the three aspects that determine the strength and durability of the cover.
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An example of Trench Covers that were not strong enough for the load it was subjected to. |
When it comes to cover integrity and durability, other considerations are also important like:
- Possible damage during handling and installation
- Damage due to heavy vehicle wheel scoffing
- Ease op lifting for inspection and maintenance.
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"Dog Bone" type grid covers severely damaged by truck wheel scoffing. |
DO NOT BUY YOUR TRENCH COVERS FROM ANYONE.
What Vanstone offers
Vanstone has a Civil Engineering Division that specializes in the design, development and manufacturing of precast concrete products for the built environment. Its professional engineer has 45 years of experience in civil engineering, construction and manufacturing. He has been with Vanstone for 28 years.
Vanstone will hear what your needs and requirements are, offer advise on appropriate solutions, do a draft design and quote. No commitment is required. If the proposal is acceptable, Vanstone will manufacture and deliver it for you.
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Removable Service Channel Covers by Vanstone |
Robust Grid Covers by Vanstone at Nova, Kew, Johannesburg. |
Roadside Channel Covers by Vanstone at the Mabopane Station City of Tshwane. |