With the effects of storm damage and flooding hitting the news headlines in recent months, the need for effective drainage systems has again been brought into stark focus. PBM takes a look at Brett Martin’s new modular StormCrates.
Designed to provide an answer to managing heavy rainfall, Brett Martin Plumbing & Drainage has launched StormCrate55, an underground modular geocellular unit which the company says is “proven as a cost-effective solution to surface water run-off in a wide range of below ground applications”.
Faced with rising costs and stricter deadlines, modularisation is growing in popularity as contractors look to find the next generation of efficient and economical products and systems. Due to the numerous benefits both on and off site, the manufacturer says that underground modular geocellular units such as the new StormCrate55 will become an increasingly popular choice for merchants and their customers.
Weighing in at only 15.5kg per module and measuring 1200 x 600 x 347mm, the StormCrate55 units can be easily lifted by hand and then laid or stacked in rows. There are four units per 1m³ which is said to simplify calculations, and the crate is high strength with a loading capability of 562kN per m2.
Manufactured from 100% recycled plastic at Brett Martin’s factory in Northern Ireland, StormCrate55 has a high void ratio of 95% which means that the units are highly efficient at storing up to 237.5 litres of water in the event of heavy rains. The units are suitable for installation in landscaped areas, pedestrianised spaces, playgrounds, parking areas, driveways and access zones.
Paul Grills, Technical Manager, said: “The UK has experienced some of the worst floods on record in previous years and will continue to do so, which is why engineered Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) such as StormCrate55 can provide effective flood protection for both the short and long term.
“StormCrate55 is simple and quick to install and due to its high strength, it can be used for both pedestrianised and trafficked applications.”
The units can be wrapped in a geotextile which allows stored water to slowly seep into the surrounding ground and back into the water table. Another common practice is to surround the modules with an impermeable geomembrane to create a sealed underground tank. The outlet from this tank is then controlled to facilitate a slow release of the stored water back into the drainage system over a longer period.
One way of addressing the problem of flooding and avoiding using an overloaded sewer system, Brett Martin says that StormCrate55 is available for delivery to site with a fast 2-3 day lead time. The firm adds that all of its products are “underpinned by exceptional sales and technical support”, ensuring that every merchant is guaranteed the highest quality of service.
To view full details on StormCrate55, go to: https://www.brettmartin.com/~/media/Files/Plumbing-and-Drainage/Underground/StormCrate55-Brochure.pdf
