You can avoid having to replace a grating system prematurely by taking your time when selecting the trench grates to install at your facility. This article discusses some of the considerations that you should have in mind when you are specifying the kind of grates that should be made for your application.
The Material
You should start by deciding the material to be used to make the grating system. In the past, cast iron was the go-to material whenever someone needed grates. Today, grating systems can be made from a wide variety of materials, such as stainless steel, plastic and composites. Each of those materials has its pros and cons. For example, stainless steel is long lasting due to its corrosion resistance. However, the cost of making such grates is high and they can be stolen for their scrap metal value. Similarly, plastic is affordable, but it may not be suitable for heavy-duty applications.
The Cover Style
You should also select a cover style based on your needs. For example, select trench grating with small slots in case you anticipate foot traffic on the grating system. The small openings are desirable because they will prevent the heels on people's shoes from getting caught within the slots. The grate openings can also be arranged in different ways, such as slanting, to suit your aesthetic and functional needs.
The Size
The size of the trench grates depends on how big the area of interest is. Larger areas, such as parking lots, often require larger grates (like 50-inch grates) to provide drainage for the water. The expected volume of water should also play a role in determining the size of the grates that you procure. Get smaller grates in case you don't expect a large volume of water to flow through the system.
Framing
Decide whether the trench grates should have a frame or not. It is advisable to include frames in case the trenches are going to be poured onsite. This is because the edges of the trench may not be straight enough to keep the grates stable for long. However, you can opt out of including frames in case the trench system will be prefabricated. Frames are also good in case you want to bolt the grates in place so that they don't shift under pressure.
Meet a grating expert and discuss all the parameters above. This professional will help you to select a grating system that will serve your needs for a long time.