GRP Trough Covers
The Channel Tunnel Rail Link was the first major new railway in the UK for more than a hundred years. Of the 68 miles of track, that links London to the Channel Tunnel, some 2.4 miles is elevated on viaducts.
We were excited when a major rail company, who were looking for an alternative to concrete for all the viaducts cable trough covering, approached us.
After lengthy investigation, they identified our Fibreglass Grating as a viable alternative to concrete as not only was it cost effective but also conformed to their stringent requirements, which included:
- An anti-slip surface with superior slip resistance to concrete, particularly when wet- A 25kg weight restriction on each section so a single operative could handle them
- Excellent corrosion resistancy
- A load rating for heavy pedestrian traffic of 5KN/m2
- Having a class 1 flame spread rating of 25 or less
- Long life expectancy
- Containing inhibitors to counter act the effects of sunlight
In theory, once it has been established that our Fibreglass Grating was to be used, the supply of the covers should have been relatively straightforward. However a lengthy technical survey of each viaduct revealed that there were numerous variations in the concrete cable trough recesses. Subsequently, it was necessary for the covers to be supplied in varying widths and thicknesses. The degree of varying trough sizes was such that it was agreed that it would be impractical to produce every panel to size. However, to assist with each installation and to minimise the amount of cutting required on site, delivery of the covers to each viaduct was supported with a detailed installation schedule.
In total circa 9 miles worth of grating trough covers were supplied and as some of the covers would also act as a walkway each panel had to be secured in place with special steel plates with a countersunk fixing hole in order to minimise the potential trip hazard.
Use as cable trough covers is just one of the many applications our Fibreglass Grating is suitable for, other uses include trenches, access pits, gully covers, fencing and walkways.
If you are interested in GRP trough covers then please contact us for a free quotation.
