Fibre-reinforced plastic is a revolutionary material used in several industries. It has also become one of the leading choices for multiple industries and infrastructural projects. FRP composites offer various perks, including being highly elastic, durable, and lightweight. This makes it suitable for manhole covers. FRP manhole covers provide several benefits compared to cast-iron manhole covers. Here are a few of them:
Light-weight
FRP manhole covers weigh less than any traditional ones like cast or ductile iron manhole covers. This makes them suitable for use within residential infrastructure and in commercial areas. These covers can be easily transported and installed, giving you the advantage of not bearing extra handling costs.
Excellent durability
FRP manhole covers are made using high-quality materials. Consequently, they have excellent durability and are resistant to impact. They are also good at withstanding heat and cold. They can also withstand heavy loads without suffering any damage. You can even find covers in various sizes with load-bearing capacities of 1.5 tons to 40 tons.
Resistance to fire
FRP is a composite material usually reinforced with fibreglass. Consequently, it is resistant to fires. It is also resistant to pests and freezing.
Maintains their integrity
FRP manhole covers are known to maintain their integrity over a long time due to their anti-corrosion features. The compressive strength of fibre-reinforced material also makes it a good alternative if you are looking for a rust-proof manhole cover for harsh environmental conditions.
Protection from theft
FRP covers also provide protection and safety from thieves. This is usually one of the top advantages of these covers. Unlike cast iron manhole covers, FRP products have a low scrap resale value. Consequently, this makes such covers perfect for pedestrian areas and minimises the risk of thieves targeting metal products and vandalism.
Resistant to electric
Suppose you have an underground sewer passage with electric utilities. In such a case, you need to get a non-conductive manhole cover. While cast iron or steel covers may be sturdy and durable when looking for non-conductive properties in a manhole, you should opt for FRP manhole covers. This is because they offer insulation against electricity.
No maintenance
FRP manhole covers do not need to be maintained since you need not clean, paint, or ensure other types of maintenance. FRP covers are effortless to care for. You can clean them occasionally using a brush. Besides, even when these covers get wet, they do not become slippery. Consequently, people can walk safely.
Budget-friendly
FRP manhole covers may cost you a little more than alternative manhole drain covers. However, if you want a longer lifespan for your manhole cover and decreased maintenance costs, FRP covers can be an excellent alternative. This long-term commitment prevents you from spending money regularly.
Conclusion
Now that you know these advantages, you can conveniently opt for ones made using FRP when looking for manhole covers.