Composite rather than metal manhole covers are better for the UK road network, according to a recent technical paper by distinguished chartered engineer John Newton. In his paper Mr Newton, inventor of the composite manhole cover, claims tests have proved a new generation of innovative composite covers, developed and manufactured by Barrow-in-Furness-based Structural Science Composites (SSC), outperform ductile iron manhole covers, while also offering better value for money.
Composite rather than metal manhole covers are better for the UK road network, according to a recent technical paper by distinguished chartered engineer John Newton.
In his paper Mr Newton, inventor of the composite manhole cover, claims tests have proved a new generation of innovative composite covers, developed and manufactured by Barrow-in-Furness-basedMr Newton argues that studies have shown that ductile iron covers - which represent the vast majority of the 10m manhole covers installed on UK roads - wear smooth over time and pose a serious safety risk to two-wheelers, especially when worn or wet.
“In the case of SSC manhole covers, we are referring to a technologically advanced manufacturing process which bonds together a structure of glass fibre with a matrix resin to produce a structure which is many times stronger than traditional metal materials,” said Mr Newton.
“In addition, they are extremely durable and light weight – up to three times lighter than steel and iron and four to five times lighter than concrete – thus enabling single person removal preventing the risk of injury to operators.” SSC says its composites can save in excess of £12.5m over a period of 15 years, representing a potentially huge cost saving to cash-strapped local authorities and utility companies.
