1. Reduced weight
Composite manhole covers can weigh up to 85% less than their metal counterparts. This makes them easier to transport and to move into place, reducing the equipment and manpower needed. It also greatly decreases the risk of worker injury, reducing compensation, lost working time and distress.
2. No scrap value
Theft is a huge problem with traditional cast iron covers because of their high scrap value, however composite manhole covers contain no metal and so are not targeted by thieves.
3. Same or higher weight loads
Composite manhole covers come in a range of load bearing capacities to meet the specifications for the required location. In tests they have been shown to cope as well, or even better, with heavy and continuous traffic flow then cast iron covers and they can withstand a weight of up to 60 tons.
4. Don’t move
Cast iron manhole covers are generally loose fitting and are kept in place by their own weight which means they are prone to being uplifted and displaced by truck tires, extreme weather conditions and vandals. Composite manhole covers however, fit tightly and are secured with a locking mechanism or worm gear which ensures they remain in place.
5. Reduce inflow of unwanted water
Due to the loose fit of traditional metal covers a large amount of unwanted water can enter into the wastewater and sewage collection systems increasing unnecessarily the amount of fluid which is passed through the treatment plant. Tight fitting composite covers are 100% waterproof and reduce this problem as well as decreasing the risk of contaminating elements such as oil entering the system.
6. Reduce odors
Again the tight fitting composite manhole covers effectively reduce the escape of odors and gases which can occur from sewer systems.
7. Reduce corrosion
Manhole covers often cover access points into sewage and waste water systems where a high level of microbiologically induced corrosion occurs and composite covers stand up to these conditions far better than cast iron alternatives.
8. Reduce maintenance
Composite manhole covers have a working life expectancy of 30-50 years and unlike their metal cousins they do not require much regular maintenance during this time.
9. Reduce manpower
Due to the light weight of composite manhole covers they can easily be removed for access by just one worker, so reducing manpower costs.
10. Non-conductive
For electrical and telecommunication applications manhole covers are required to be non-conductive which or course cast iron models are not!
11. Permit passage of radio waves
Composite manhole covers permit the free passage of radio waves and signals form automatic meter reading systems making them preferable for telemetry systems.
12. Better antiskid capacity
The surface of composite manhole covers can be molded in different ways and a deeply ridged and textured surface offers excellent antiskid properties.
13. Choice of colors
The wide choice of colors in which composite covers can be produced make them perfect for brightening and beautifying an urban environment.
14. Advertising potential
Composite manhole covers can be molded with company logos, slogans, city symbols or messages and have a great advertising potential.
15. Reduce costs
While the initial buying price of composite manhole covers may be a little higher than metal options in the long run all of the above reasons can actually reduce the final operating costs making them a fantastic option.
