## Luke cast -iron with a lid: types, features and choice
Cast iron hatches are an integral part of the city infrastructure, imperceptibly, but reliably serving us for years. They hide underground communications, ensuring the safety of pedestrians and transport. However, not all cast -iron hatches are the same. A variety of types of covers and structures can be at a dead end even an experienced specialist, not to mention a simple layman. Let's figure out the main types.
### Types of covers: from classics to innovation
The most common type is a hatch with a flat lid. A simple, reliable design, time -tested. It easily withstands significant loads, suitable for pedestrian zones and roads with moderate traffic. More modern solutions offer hatches with lids that have a relief surface that prevents sliding. This is especially true for places with high humidity or in winter. There are also hatches with a decorative coating that can harmoniously fit into the environment, for example, imitating paving stones or pavement. For roads with intensive traffic, hatches with an enhanced design are used that can withstand the weight of heavy vehicles.
### materials and durability
Traditionally, hatches are made of gray cast iron - the material of durable, durable and resistant to corrosion. However, modern technologies allow you to use other materials, for example, composite materials that combine strength and lightness. The choice of material depends on operating conditions and the required degree of wear resistance. Cast iron, despite its weight, provides high resistance to mechanical damage and a long service life. Proper installation and regular inspection is the key to the long and trouble -free work of the hatch.
### selection criteria: what to look for?
When choosing a cast -iron hatch, it is important to consider several factors. First of all, this is the estimated load on the lid. For pedestrian zones, there is enough hatch with less bearing capacity, and for roads you will need a more strong design. You should also pay attention to the size of the hatch, which should correspond to the size of the hatch in the existing well. And finally, it is important to consider the appearance of the hatch so that it looks organically in the environment. The right choice of hatch is a guarantee of security and durability of underground utilities.