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Polymer Concrete
What is polymer concrete?
Polymer concrete is a compound material made from two components: Reactive resin as a binder and aggregates. The material properties depend on the type and quantity of binder and mineral aggregates as well as on grain size and distribution. The suitability of polymer concrete for the production of manhole components has been established through scientific research.
Features of polymer concrete
Components made of polymer concrete outperform similar components made from ordinary concrete. Strength in tension, compression and flexure ate 3 to 5 times higher and polymer concrete is more tolerant of shock loading. It is more resistant to corrosion than cast iron and strength is basically unaffected by normal exposure to oil, diesel or petrol. The products should however be used in environments where high concentrations of acids or alkalis are regularly inspected. The load bearing specifications as set by the SABS (SABS 558/1973 AND SABS 1115/1976) for conventional (Cast iron) manhole covers are met and in certain cases exceeded. Withstands high mechanical compressive and bending stress. Excellent resistance to chemical attack, smooth surface without pores prevents settling of solids. The material structure is free of capillaries, absorbs no water and does not allow gas diffusion covered by standards and approved by the municipalities and construction authorities.
Reasons to use polymer concrete
Cost effectiveness - as the components have no scrap value, the risk of theft is dramatically reduced. Damages claims - The chance of facing damages claims for injury or damage resulting from accidents due to the theft of manhole covers, is greatly reduced. Appearance - Products can be delivered in a variety of colours to suit the customers complex logo's can be done on client specification Ease of handling - Heavy duty polymer concrete manhole components are lighter than most cast iron products, while still being quite heavy enough not to be flipped out of the frame when used in roadways. This reduces both transport and installation cost prices are competitive - With conventional manhole components, particularly when considering all the advantages polymer concrete has to offer.
Benefits of polymer concrete
By using polymer concrete products the afore-mentioned problems are virtually eliminated, as polymer concrete has no scrap value. The products can also be produced in a range of colours, therefore reducing maintenance costs to meet any special customer requirement. They comply with the SABS load bearing specifications for conventional cast iron manhole covers and frames. Relative low costs. Designer manhole covers can support logo's or complex names etc.
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