Exacting standards for harsh environments
Gatic Access Covers can be typically found in airports, ports, container docks, data centres, water treatment works, gas and electricity facilities, highways and tunnels. As a modular system manufactured using ductile cast iron components, Gatic Access Covers can be assembled into a wide range of sizes. Additionally, by utilising steel beams in multispan applications, endless size opportunities are possible, allowing easy access to a comprehensive range of underground services across various commercial and industrial venues.
These volatile applications require the guaranteed protection offered only by Gatic Access Covers. Examples include:
- Manhole/pump/valve/transformer chambers
- Pipe and cable service trenches
- Cable draw pits
- Lighting pits
- Fuel and fire hydrant pits
- Machinery/plant access chambers
- Combined sewer/overflow chambers
The composition of the ductile iron is tightly controlled and the casting process is held to stringent limits. The covers and frames are pre-assembled at Gatic’s factory achieving a ‘metal to metal’ fit within 0.25mm tolerance.
This unique seal has been subject to independent BBA testing and has achieved BBA approval for guaranteed levels of gas-, air- and water-tightness, which cannot be attained when alternative options, such as composites, are retrofit into existing frames.
When correctly installed, this degree of fit also ensures Gatic covers will be non-rocking under traffic, and sealed against ingress of road dirt and other detritus.
Environmental Considerations
Importantly, Heathrow’s investment programme is intended to transform the airport into a net-zero aviation hub. The provision of Gatic Access Covers not only suits the demanding application at Heathrow, but also aligns with the project’s environmental considerations.
Gatic are committed to working processes that meet the requirements of Quality (BS EN ISO 9001) and Environmental (BS EN ISO 14001) Management Systems. These processes are practised company-wide to ensure their commitment to continuous environmental improvements in terms of product design and manufacture. Most notably, these systems enable Gatic to do the following:
- Minimise environmental impact
- Commit organisational resources to energy management
- Reduce energy costs
- Give high priority to energy efficient investments
- Consider life cycle energy costs for all new projects
- Minimise CO2emissions year on year
- Use energy from sustainable resources wherever possible
