Composite Cover
A lighter approach to secure underground access
Composite covers from Cubis Systems provide a practical alternative to conventional access covers.
They reduce the weight involved in routine chamber access, without compromising on loading performance. Their non-metallic construction also removes scrap value and allows compatible telemetry readings to be taken without lifting the cover.
Available in A15, B125, C250, and now D400 load classes, composite covers are specified across a wide range of infrastructure applications. Standard and bespoke sizes, multi-cover layouts, locking and customer badging are all available — get in touch to discuss.
At a glance
Key product highlights
⬆ Lightweight
Composite covers weigh less than 25kg. Lightweight manoeuvrability improves installation practicality and makes routine access safe and simple.
ᯤ Permeable to radio waves
Radio waves can pass through the composite material, allowing telemetry readings to be taken conveniently, without lifting the cover.
👟 Anti-slip design
The cover surface is designed with safety in mind. Its anti-slip tread pattern has a Slip Resistance Value exceeding 80, providing secure footing in service.
📏 Available in bespoke sizes
Composite covers can be manufactured in a large size range, using cross-beams and cross-pieces to build multi-cover units.
⛏ No inherent scrap value
The non-metallic composite cover has no inherent scrap value, helping reduce theft risk and the disruption it causes.
⛊ Custom badging
Covers can be badged with information (such as network operator name or logo) to allow for identification by operatives.
⌛ Long lifespan
Composite access covers have long service life when installed, providing lower total life costs for the end user.
🔒︎ Locking options
Bolt-down locking options help prevent unauthorised access and can be matched to end-user keying requirements.
How it works
A suitable frame with additional cross pieces (where applicable) are fitted to the chamber top. The composite cover(s) are then placed carefully into the frame. Grommets are added in the lifting points and the cover secured using supplied screws.
Product properties
Available sizes
Composite covers are available in a range of standard sizes. (See size guide for details.) Bespoke covers are also available using cross-beams and cross-pieces to build multi-cover units with options in security and badging.
Load rating
Composite covers are versatile in terms of load rating options. We have options to meet EN124 load classes of A15, B125, C250, and D400. So, we have a solution for everything from pedestrian areas through to carriageways.
Materials
Frames, covers and cross pieces are manufactured from rolled steel section in compliance with BS1449 and galvanised in compliance with BS EN ISO 1461. Covers are manufactured from Glass Reinforced Polyester Resin (GRP).
Options and accessories
Composite covers can be supplied with the following components:
Customer badging
Bespoke customer details can be included in the access cover badge for identification and awareness. Contact the Cubis Systems team to request badge branding on your order.
Locking arrangements
Covers can be fitted with a bolt-down locking system to deter vandalism. Standard keys are also available as well as flat head, penta head, offset circle and snake eye arrangements.
Frames
Concrete infill access covers can be supplied with a number of frame options, including: raising, BLOK adjust, high-top, composite.
Composite cover grommets
Grommets are added in the cover lifting points once installed. They ensure a complete installation, with openings secured. Each grommet is matched to its cover’s load rating and size.
Bespoke keys
Locking keys can also be adapted to suit the end user’s needs. Contact us to discuss any specialist needs - we're happy to work under NDA for sensitive projects.
Accessory options
Alongside cover options, we also supply a range of chamber accessories including steps, cable management and duct entries so you can specify a complete solution.
Proven in practice
Composite cover FAQ
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Are different composite materials used for different cover ratings?
Yes. 'A' rated covers are manufactured from BMC (Bulk Moulding Compound). 'B' and 'C' rated covers are manufactured from SMC (Sheet Moulding Compound).
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Where can composite covers be used?
Composite covers are suitable for a range of applications, depending on the load rating specified:
- A15: Suitable for pedestrians only areas
- B125: Suitable for footways, pedestrian areas and comparable areas, car parks or parking decks
- C250: Suitable for kerbside channels
- D400: Suitable for carriageways of roads, hard shoulders and parking areas for all types of road vehicles
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What happens if I lose a grommet?
Replacement grommets are available from our stockists. (Just make sure they’re matched to the relevant cover specification.) Refer to the accessory webpage for more FAQ around composite cover grommets.
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When should I specify a composite cover?
Composite covers are particularly suitable where lower individual cover weights or radio-wave permeability are important to the project. (Handy for applications like telecoms cabinets, rail platforms, and traffic signals.) The required loading class, location, and chamber configuration should always be considered before selecting the final cover system.
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Can composite access covers be installed with any access chamber?
Any STAKKAbox™ access chamber from Cubis Systems, yes. It's worth noting that all our chambers and covers are designed, supplied and rigorously tested as a complete system. So, our STAKKAbox™ chambers and access covers should always be paired together for assured performance and load-rating validation.
