A large water treatment plant on the Atlantic coast of Florida chose to replace aging concrete trench panels with a series of lightweight composite alternatives. The facility, which produces approximately 30 million gal of drinking water per day, employs maintenance operatives who regularly lift trench covers in order to make checks and emergency repairs to pipework.
The existing concrete panels—commonly used in the U.S. water industry—were not only difficult and dangerous to remove but also had degraded and crumbled over time. Traditional metal covers were considered as an alternative, but in the end, Fibrelite’s FRP composite, medium-duty trench covers were chosen.
A prime reason for selecting a composite cover is because of its inherent resistance to corrosion, making it an ideal choice where water, wastewater or corrosive liquids are involved, as well as where underground infrastructure requires protection from external corrosive compounds such as salt.
The covers are lightweight, and the ergonomically designed lifting handle has the added benefit of eliminating the risk of back injury and crushed fingers for operatives.
An anti-slip finish is an additional safety benefit, with non-slip treads molded into the product at the manufacturing stage, making it safe to use in any weather condition.
The composite covers are available in a range of sizes, colors and load ratings. They are maintenance free, durable and strong. Naturally inert, they have no impact on the environment where they are installed.
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