Round Manhole Cover

Designed and manufactured according to EN124

Load capacity: D400 E600 F900

Material: Ductile iron GGG500 / Grey iron HT200

Coating:  Bitumen coating (Epoxy coating available)

Most of the standard sizes are available. 

A round manhole cover is a ubiquitous sight in urban and industrial landscapes. Its design, seemingly simple, is the result of careful engineering considerations.

Design Features

The most prominent feature of a round manhole cover is, of course, its circular shape. It is typically made from materials like cast iron, steel, or high-strength plastic. Cast iron covers are popular for their durability and load-bearing capacity. They can withstand the weight of heavy vehicles passing over them without significant deformation.

The edges of the cover are designed to fit snugly into a circular frame in the manhole. This ensures a secure fit, preventing the cover from accidentally dislodging, which could pose a serious safety hazard.

Working Principle

The circular geometry of the manhole cover plays a crucial role in its functionality. When pressure is applied evenly from above, as when a vehicle drives over it, the round shape distributes the load symmetrically. This is in contrast to square or rectangular covers, which can experience stress concentrations at the corners.

Moreover, the round shape ensures that no matter how the cover is rotated, it will always maintain the same diameter and fit within the circular opening. This makes installation and replacement straightforward, as there is no need to align specific edges or corners precisely.

Advantages

Safety: Its design minimizes the risk of the cover falling into the manhole. Since the diameter of the cover is always larger than the inner diameter of the opening, regardless of its orientation, it provides a reliable barrier.

Ease of Manufacture: Circular shapes are relatively easier to manufacture compared to more complex geometric forms. This simplifies the production process and reduces manufacturing costs.

Aesthetic Appeal: The smooth, circular form of the manhole cover blends well with the surrounding environment, whether it's a city street or an industrial area. It gives a sense of order and uniformity.

Applications

Round manhole covers are used in a wide range of applications. In urban sewer systems, they provide access points for maintenance and inspection of underground pipes. In industrial settings, they are used to cover access points to tanks, pits, and other underground structures. They are also commonly found in stormwater drainage systems, where they prevent debris from entering the pipes while allowing water to flow freely.