Why Use Dura Slab Structural Trench Covers







ANTI-SLIP
Dura Slab flooring features a gritted surface that provides
outstanding anti-slip protection for personnel - in wet and
oily environments. The grit is embedded in the top surface
of each panel prior to curing. This combination of integral
construction, plus depth of the embedded grit, creates a long-lasting
maximum anti-slip top surface. CORROSION RESISTANT
The ability of our Dura Slab flooring to guard against deterioration
from industrial chemicals and environmental factors mean that
it is a logical and cost-effective alternative to carbon steel,
aluminium, wood or other conventional materials. The panels
will not corrode even when exposed to continuous submersion,
splash, spills, fumes or gases. FIRE RESISTANT
Dura Slab is available in various resin systems, two of which
meet the Class 1 flame spread rating of 25 or less, in accordance
with ASTM E-84 Tunnel Test Method and to British Standard
Part 7 Class 1. classification. NON-MAGNETIC
The non-magnetic properties allow the panels to be used in sensitive installations where the inherent magnetic properties of other materials would prove unsuitable.
IMPACT RESISTANT
The construction of Dura Slab Flooring means that even after
repeated impacts there is no permanent deformation. The material
structure allows deflection, however, once the load is removed,
the panel will return to its original shape. NON-SPARKING
The non sparking qualities of Dura Slab are ideally suited for those installations where hydrogen or other combustible gases may be found. This prevents explosion or fire resulting from sparks produced from accidental dropping of tools onto the panel surface.
MAINTENANCE FREE
The use of Dura Slab virtually eliminates maintenance. This can drastically reduce costs since painting is not required, and UV inhibitors protect against degradation from the sun which means the material does not need replacing.
EASY INSTALLATION
Dura Slab panels weigh about one-quarter as much as steel grating. Two men can easily handle full panels, without the need for hoists, pulleys or dollies. If the panels need to be moved for cleaning, maintenance or utility access, there is less chance of back injuries. The lightweight design of the material therefore reduces installation costs.
ALLOWS DEFLECTION
The design procedures associated with Dura Slab are entirely different from those associated with traditional materials. The prime consideration in designing with fibreglass is allowable deflection as opposed to ultimate loading used with steel and aluminium. The reason for this is the inherent elasticity of reinforced plastic, permitting far greater deflection than steel, without the danger of structural failure or permanent deformation.
STANDARD BEARING SURFACES
A minimum of 38mm bearing support can be provided under the edges of Fibreglass panels. This complies to industry standards. |
LOWER COSTS
Dura Slab can provide significant savings over the use of
most other materials when taking into account life cycle
costs. This is due to the fact that heavy installation
equipment is eliminated, there is zero maintenance plus the
fact that access can be provided for servicing simply by lifting
the panels. NON-CONDUCTIVE
The non-conductive properties make Dura Slab panels ideally suited for work platforms and flooring situated in electrically hazardous locations.
LOW INSTALLATION COSTS
Fibreglass weighs considerably less than conventional materials,
and is easier and less expensive to transport, install and
remove. Only simple hand tools are required for installation
and removal, eliminating the need for costly equipment and
labour costs associated with heavy lifting, cutting and welding
equipment. SUPERIOR STRENGTH
The high glass-to-resin ratio of Dura Slab flooring provides superior strength and load-bearing characteristics. With structural integrity protected by its unique corrosion resistance capabilities, fibreglass lasts longer than traditional materials.
MECHANICAL STRENGTH
Breaking strength under a lateral force is exceptional. The uni-directional continuous fibreglass reinforcement offers numerous advantages, including rigidity, shock-resistance and no permanent deformation after overloading. These factors provide excellent mechanical strength and a generous factor of safety. Fibreglass is designed for maximum safety in intensive industrial use.
CONDUCTIVE GRATING
Dura Slab can be supplied with a specially formulated carbon, black surface, which will eliminate hazardous static electricity when properly grounded. This anti-static property is most advantageous in high tech electronic industries where sophisticated equipment may be damaged due to static electricity. It also provides a safe environment in combustible areas by not allowing static sparks. It can be used in railway fuel stations, circuit board manufacture, oil refineries, underground mining operations, ammunition factories etc. The surface electric resistance is 1 x 105½ to 5 x 105½.
RAISED FLOORS
Many plant operations have a need for slightly elevated flooring. Fixed or adjustable pedestals can be used for applications up to a height of 600mm.
HIGH PERFORMANCE
Composite structural materials have demonstrated a proven ability to withstand the harsh side effects of corrosive conditions better than galvanised steel. For many years, composites have been reliably used in traditionally corrosive industries such as chemical processing, plating and marine construction. While the cost of material is an important criteria in the design of a project, it does not reflect the total cost of the project. Beyond material purchase price, the engineer also should consider the related costs of installation, maintenance over time and replacement of debilitated materials. |
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