Gatic Access Covers from Alumasc Water Management Solutions (AWMS) have been supplied as part of major resurfacing works at London’s Heathrow Airport.

The project, which involves around 90,000 tonnes of asphalt being laid to the Southern entry/exit taxiways and runway, forms part of Heathrow’s new investment programme, which is being delivered by engineering and construction specialist VolkerFitzpatrick. The covers were specified by leading consultancy firm, Jacobs, who are managing product specification for the entire project, and have a successful track record with Gatic Access Covers across other areas of the airport.

For this phase of the works, single and double units were installed, with solid covers featuring an anti-slip surface and load bearing capabilities of F900. F900 assemblies are able to withstand a 35-tonne slow moving wheel load, making them perfect for aircraft hard-standings and taxiways. Additional strengthening was provided by way of mounting trays, which enable a reinforcement bar to be passed underneath the units, helping to tie the cover and frame into the concrete slab.

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 multi-span 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 CO2 emissions year on year
• Use energy from sustainable resources wherever possible

AWMS: Leading the way in sustainable drainage

The AWMS ‘Concept to Completion’ process is underpinned by a solid company infrastructure which offers the following:

• UK-based manufacturing facilities and foundry
• national brand-specific sales team and regional support network
• in-house technical team
• design team to fulfil bespoke design requirements
• rainwater and drainage calculations and on-site surveys
• take off and estimations
• in-house, BBA approved powder coating facilities
• unrivalled dedicated UK technical and after-sales support

Gatic Civil Drainage & Access Covers sits under the AWMS umbrella, as one of five brands well known for innovation, quality and longevity. The four accompanying brands are: Alumasc Rainwater Gutters & Downpipes; Skyline Architectural Aluminium; Harmer Building Drainage; and Wade Building Drainage.

Our extensive product portfolio ensures sustainable rainwater and drainage solutions that set the standard for urban water management.

Alumasc Water Management Solutions is part of the Alumasc Group. The Group proudly holds the London Stock Exchange Green Economy Mark, which is awarded to companies generating 50% or more of their total annual revenues from products and services that contribute to the global green economy.

For more information call the Gatic team on 01787 475151 or visit: https://www.alumascwms.co.uk/products/gatic