Composite Access Covers and EN 124:2015.
Raising the standard for Traffic Systems Infrastructure
In recent years, the arrival of composite access covers to the market has delivered new advantages and a new level of choice for project managers of utilities and municipalities, engineers and specifiers. A substantial revision of the performance standard from the EU in the shape of EN 124:2015 has provided a clear framework for composite manufacturers like EJ to adhere to and confirms that composites are here to stay.
The advantages of using composite access covers
Composite materials are used today for a wide range of applications from construction to the aerospace industry. When it comes to manhole covers and access solutions, high quality composite products now offer many benefits.
Composite access covers..
Are easy to handle and install, due to their low weight.
Have no resale value to the scrap market, therefore eliminating theft.
Are corrosion-resistant -composite products will remain unchanged, even in the most aggressive environments. This can apply to areas with exposure to sewers, petrochemicals, diesel, de-icing solutions, and salt water
Exhibit no signal interference with wireless communication devices which makes them particularly suitable for applications associated with water metering automation or electrical switching for smart grid technology.
Do not conduct stray voltage nor heat and can shield pedestrians from the underground environment.
Can be colour-customised to display a personalised logo or service identification.
While composite products offer many advantages, how composite products are made and what standards they are produced to, can vary widely – and this is the primary reason why the European standard was expanded.
Meeting the new standards – the EJ approach
In Ireland the standard EN 124 : 1994 has been superseded by EN 124 : 2015 (please refer to www.nsai.ie for more details). The revised standard moves to standardise the design and manufacture of composite covers to ensure good quality, durable products are brought to market as there was no specific composite testing in EN124:1994.
There are now extensive test requirements for load and fatigue testing, fuel absorption, water absorption, UV protection, etc; all specified to ensure there are no future issues with the product, offering peace of mind to the contractor, client and public.
To find out more about the E J range of composite access covers manufactured in Birr, Co. Offaly.
Please contact Caroline O’Brien on 057 9123100