Kijlstra launches square concrete manhole system

Kijlstra launches a pre-cast concrete manhole that can typically be installed 16 times faster than traditional systems on standard units.

The system is manufactured from self-compacting concrete and poured monolithically with benching to guarantee optimum size consistency and strength.

It is combined with a finish that gives a 120-year design life.

Once on site, the Kijlstra standard square manhole can be installed by a couple of men and an excavator within 30 minutes compared to the one to two days it takes on average to install traditional round manholes.

This off-site ability means the Kijlstra system is cost effective in multiple ways; requiring less men, materials and plant, taking less time and money to install.

As the manufacturing process ensures the square manholes are just as strong and robust as their predecessors, they do not need reinforcing or shuttering, saving more time and minimising Health and Safety issues.

Unaffected by the extremes of the British weather that can bring the pouring of concrete to a grinding halt, their self-containment also means there is less on-site wastage.

WRc-approved and Kitemarked in respect of BS EN 1917:2002, the manholes are manufactured to concrete quality C40/50 and Environmental class XA3, with lifting anchors for ease of lifting and placing.

Different modules such as base units, raising units or slab units come with a socket-spigot connection which is 100 per cent watertight without the use of cements or sealants.

The manhole can be fitted with various options including flow control devices such as flap valves, penstocks and hydrobrakes, valves and pipework for pump stations and valve chambers, and special chamber linings.

The square manholes have already been used in the UK on several high profile developments.

They are particularly effective where there are poor ground conditions and a high water table.

Kijlstra has a sales and training facility in the UK, near Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire.

Manholes and other pre-cast systems are manufactured at Kijlstra's two production facilities in the Netherlands.

Kijlstra has formed partnerships with key distributors within the UK to keep lead times to a minimum.

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