Manhole covers are one component that is often overlooked in construction and drainage management projects. Incorrect installation can have a big impact, ranging from road damage to safety hazards for pedestrians and motorists. To help you avoid unnecessary mistakes, here we discuss five common mistakes in installing manhole covers and how to overcome them.
1. Choosing the wrong size
One of the most common mistakes is choosing a manhole cover with the wrong size. Sometimes due to limited stock or cheaper prices, people tend to choose drainage covers that are not the right size. An inappropriate size can cause the lid not to close completely or too loose, potentially resulting in an accident.
Solution:
Before ordering, ensure you have measured the diameter and depth of the manhole correctly. Use a precise measuring tool and choose a manhole cover that meets your project’s standards. Then, consult the Infiniferro Team to get the right size.
2. Uneven manhole cover installation (not parallel to the road surface)
Ever felt shaken when passing through the road because the vehicle’s wheel shit a protruding or sank drainage cover? This is the result of an uneven fit. In addition to interfering with driving comfort, installation that is not parallel to the road surface can accelerate damage to the manhole cover and the surrounding road.
Solution:
Ensure the surface where the manhole cover is installed is compacted and leveled first. Use the water pass tool to ensure the cover position is completely parallel to the road surface. If you find any misalignment, make repairs immediately before the installation is complete.
3. Use of improper materials
Choosing the wrong manhole cover material is also often a fatal mistake. For example, using low-grade cast iron drainage covers in areas frequented by heavy vehicles. As a result, the manhole cover can quickly be damaged or even broken.
Solution:
Choose materials according to the needs of the location. For highway and industrial areas, ductile iron manhole covers are the best choice because they are resistant to heavy loads and have high durability. Meanwhile, for pedestrian areas, you can choose gray cast iron because it is more economical and strong to withstand light loads.
4. Not paying attention to the drainage system around the manhole
Installing a manhole cover without paying attention to the surrounding drainage system can cause waterlogging. This usually happens because the position of the manhole is higher than the road level, and water cannot flow smoothly into the drainage channel.
Solution:
Always ensure that the manhole cover is installed parallel to or slightly lower than the road level to prevent standing water. In addition, make sure that the waterways around the manhole are clear of garbage or materials that can block the flow of water.
5. Not installing a safety lock or locking system
Manhole covers that are easy to open without safety are often the target of theft or even pranks from irresponsible parties. If the manhole cover is stolen or opened, this can be a serious threat to the safety of road users.
Solution:
Choose a manhole cover that is equipped with a locking system. This system makes manhole covers more difficult to open without special tools, so they are safe from theft and vandalism. Infiniferro provides various types of manhole covers with locking types that can be adjusted to your project needs.
The installation of manhole covers may seem trivial, but it greatly affects the safety and durability of drainage infrastructure. By avoiding the five mistakes above and implementing the right solutions, you can ensure that the drainage system functions optimally and lasts for a long time.
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