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Ductile Iron Manhole Covers and Plastic Manhole Covers: Which is the Best Choice for Your Infrastructure Project?
In infrastructure projects involving heavy vehicle traffic, harsh weather conditions, and long-term usage, the durability of the covers and grate systems used is of vital importance. In urban roads, industrial areas, organized infrastructures, and public projects, components such as manhole covers, manhole systems, and stormwater grates play a critical role in terms of both load capacity and safety. In this context, ductile iron infrastructure products offer unrivaled solutions in terms of durability, long lifespan, and reliability.
Infrastructure components made from ductile iron are suitable for use across a wide load-bearing range, from A15 to F900 class, in compliance with the EN 124 standard, with high impact resistance and abrasion resistance. These products are safely preferred even on major arterial roads and industrial transitions under heavy traffic loads, thanks to their load capacities of up to 90 tons. Additionally, their resilient structure against high temperature changes and chemical effects ensures they maintain performance even in the most challenging climate conditions.
While composite materials may offer advantages such as aesthetics or low weight in certain light infrastructure applications, their sensitivity to impact resistance and UV-heat effects moves them away from being long-term solutions. Deformation, cracking, and insufficient load capacity seen in public projects, especially, highlight the vulnerabilities of composites in the field. Furthermore, the difficulties in recycling and the fastening problems encountered post-installation show that composite materials are disadvantaged in terms of sustainability and operational safety.
Ductile iron manhole and sewer covers, on the other hand, are one of the most critical building blocks of urban infrastructure, with their 100% recyclable structure, high manufacturing standardization, easy installation possibilities, and robust durability that requires no maintenance for years. These products not only ensure durability but also security, with special locking mechanisms against theft.
In short, choosing the right material in infrastructure projects is a key factor for ensuring both safe and economical use, not only for today but for many years ahead. While composite covers provide a temporary solution, ductile iron products offer permanent security. Therefore, all stakeholders, from municipalities to infrastructure contractors, can contribute to city safety by minimizing risks through the preference of ductile iron in infrastructure components.