Manhole covers might seem like mundane pieces of urban infrastructure, but their weight and construction play matter for city planning and public safety. In this post, we will answer some of the most common questions people have about manhole covers. If you have ever wondered how much do manhole covers weigh, what they are made from, or why they are made the way they are, this blog is for you!
After breaking down some of the general characteristics of manhole covers, we will take an in-depth look at the manhole covers we make at Vodaland, so you can find the right product for your needs.
General Overview of Manhole Covers and Their Characteristics
Why Manhole Covers Are Heavy
Manhole covers are designed to be heavy for several practical reasons. First and foremost, their weight ensures that they stay in place. A heavy manhole cover is less likely to be displaced, which is critical for safety, preventing accidents where pedestrians or vehicles might encounter an open manhole.
Heavy covers also serve to deter unauthorized access. Many manhole covers lead to underground infrastructure such as sewage systems, electrical utilities, and telecommunications lines. By making these covers difficult to lift without specialized tools, cities can protect their critical underground utilities from tampering.
Materials
Traditionally, manhole covers have been made from cast iron, a material chosen for its durability and strength. A cast iron manhole cover can withstand the pressures exerted by vehicles and heavy machinery, which is why cast iron manhole covers, or ductile iron manhole covers, are most often used on city streets.
In recent years, composite materials have become popular alternatives. These materials, often made from a combination of resin and fiberglass, offer comparable strength to cast iron but are significantly lighter. Composite covers are not only easier to handle but also provide additional benefits such as resistance to corrosion and electrical conductivity.
How Much Does a Manhole Cover Weigh?
The weight of a manhole cover can vary widely depending on several factors, including its size, material, and intended use. Typically, a standard manhole cover weighs between 90 to 250 pounds. This range accommodates various load ratings and applications, from light-duty pedestrian areas to heavy-duty roadways.
Manhole Cover Design Variations
Manhole covers come in various shapes and sizes, each suited to different applications. A round manhole cover design is the most common, however, square and rectangular designs are also used, particularly for access points that need to accommodate specific utilities or equipment.
Vodaland's Manhole Cover Offerings
At Vodaland, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive manhole cover selection to meet diverse needs and applications.
Our manhole covers, crafted from durable materials like PPE plastic with steel reinforcement, heavy-duty cast iron, and corrosion-resistant stainless steel and galvanized steel, provide unmatched reliability and strength. Featuring advanced designs such as water-tight seals, hinged lids, and customizable logos, our covers ensure top-notch performance and security.
Whether for lightweight, easy handling or robust heavy-duty requirements, Vodaland delivers solutions that set the highest standards of safety and functionality.
Round Manhole Covers
Our custom logo manhole cover is made from PPE plastic with steel reinforcement, combining lightweight properties with enhanced strength. With an external diameter of 31.5 inches and an internal diameter of 24 inches, this cover is 3.25 inches high and weighs only 25 pounds. Despite its relatively light weight, it boasts a B Class load rating, capable of withstanding up to 27,500 pounds. Its water-tight and hinged lid design ensures easy access and secure closure, making it ideal for a variety of urban settings. Additionally, the bolt-down installation adds an extra layer of security.
Square Black Manhole Covers
For those requiring a different shape, our black square manhole cover offers an alternative. Made from the same PPE plastic with steel reinforcement, this cover measures 23.62 inches on each side and is 3.25 inches high, maintaining the same 25-pound weight. Its B Class load rating of 27,500 pounds and water-tight, hinged lid design make it suitable for various applications, particularly where a square cover might be more appropriate or visually appealing.
Cast Iron Manhole Storm Covers
For heavy-duty applications, our cast iron manhole storm cover is the ideal choice. While the exact dimensions are standard, its cast iron construction ensures it is significantly heavier than the plastic alternatives. This cover is designed to withstand the heaviest loads, making it suitable for vehicular traffic and other demanding environments. Its durability and bolt-down installation provide long-lasting reliability and security.
12x12 Catch Basin Stainless Steel Fillable Access Cover
This smaller cover, measuring 12 inches by 12 inches, is made from stainless steel, offering a robust and corrosion-resistant solution. The fillable design allows it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, whether in concrete or other materials. Its bolt-down installation ensures it remains secure, providing a practical and durable access point.
Galvanized Steel Fillable Access Covers (15x15 & 23x23)
Our 15-inch by 15-inch and 23-inch by 23-inch fillable access covers, both made from galvanized steel, offer exceptional durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. These covers feature a fillable design that ensures smooth integration into various environments and a bolt-down installation for enhanced stability and security. The 23-inch by 23-inch cover, being the largest, provides all the benefits of its smaller counterpart, making it ideal for urban infrastructure needing robust and reliable access solutions.
Comprehensive Landscape and Drainage Solutions
At Vodaland, we offer a wide range of high-quality landscape and drainage solutions.
Our manhole cover selection includes durable options made from PPE plastic with steel reinforcement, heavy-duty cast iron, and corrosion-resistant stainless steel and galvanized steel. Each cover is designed with advanced features like water-tight seals, and hinged lids.
Whether for lightweight, easy handling or robust heavy-duty requirements, our manhole covers meet the highest standards of safety and functionality.
