Guide: Weight load classes for channel drainage & more…

When selecting channel drainage, manhole tops, gully grates & other such load-critical products it’s imperative that you consider the typical weight loading requirements before deciding which product or system to install within a specific area. Consideration should always be given to the intended use and the different types of traffic that are likely to pass over and service the area in question. This is a critical part of the overall decision making process when choosing suitable products for each project. Loading requirements are categorised into six standard Classes that are defined in European Standard BS EN 1433:2002 & BS EN 124:2015, setting out the performance characteristics required in order for a product or system to fulfil the loading requirements for exposure to specific classes of traffic, ranging from pedestrian foot traffic up to exceptionally heavy vehicular traffic such as forklift trucks, aeroplanes & other specialised vehicles. For example, a Class D400 drainage channel, manhole top or gully grate would be designed to take up to 40 tonnes driving over it and would typically be used for petrol station forecourts, general car parks and access routes that are restricted to vehicles no greater than 40 tonnes in weight. Any traffic or loading above 40-tonnes could potentially cause damage to the installed product or system and could potentially create a hazard, which is why it’s critical that the anticipated loadings are considered before arriving at your choice. If higher loadings are likely then a more heavy duty product would need to be considered, such as E600 or even an F900 class, designed to take up to 60 or 90 tonnes respectively. Standard weight load classes We’ve produced the following table of standard weight load classes to provide a quick-fire visual aid showing (side-by-side) each loading class, test load applied & typical installation areas. For more in depth knowledge of the industry standard requirements please refer to BS EN 1433:2002 & BS EN 124:2015. For further information please visit our online resource Channel Drainage Explained

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