Why Is Composite Manhole Cover So Popular Now?
SMC manhole cover is based on high-strength SMC sheet molding material, comprising primarily a thermosetting resin, filler(s), and fiber reinforcement. which is moulded at high temperatures to form a high-density whole. It is shaped like an iron plate with a hard texture. It has a smooth surface and can resist a large amount of load.
SMC has excellent electrical properties, corrosion resistance, light weight, and engineering design easy, flexible, etc., its mechanical properties can be comparable with some metallic materials, which are widely used in transport vehicles, construction, electronics / electrical and other industries.
The composite manhole cover is durable, lightweight and safe. Therefore, the labor and equipment costs for installation, maintenance, and replacement are reduced. You can also save money as it only needs cleaning and clearing of mold, rot, and moss as maintenance.
Light-weighted. 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.
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.
Comparing with the traditional ductile cast iron , SMC manhole cover owns very similar or even better performance at testing load rating. And composite manhole covers contain no metal and so are not targeted by thieves.
Composite manhole covers have a working life expectancy of 30-50 years and do not require much regular maintenance during this time.
With all the advantages mentioned above, switching from a cast iron or metal cover to a composite manhole cover is a smart move.
In the past, it is not always easy to remove a manhole cover from over drainage inspection chambers because the cast iron covers are very heavy and if they have not been removed for years there will be rust and soil around the edges. However, composite manhole covers do not have these problems.
More advantages of a composite manhole cover：
- Higher stretch resistance and bend resistance.
- Anti-theft, no recycle value.
- Durable service life.
- Anti-corrosion, anti-slip.
- UV-proof and V0-flammability rating.
- Permit passage of radio waves.
