Developed for quick installations, even in the most difficult location, the RapidSTACK underground access chamber system is used by many industries due to its immense strength, light weight, adaptability and dramatic project cost saving.

Design

The RapidSTACK access chamber consists of four modular panels that are bolted together in each corner to form an easy to handle, robust, 150mm deep chamber ring. A finished chamber is produced by simply stacking the rings to the required depth. The ribbed structure design improves chamber performance through efficient material usage and resists both vertical and lateral applied loads. The RapidSTACK provides a full 76mm width-bedding area for the access cover and frame as required in the Highways Agency Design Manual for Roads and Bridges - HA104/02.

Material

RapidSTACK access chambers are manufactured in DMC (Dough Moulding Compound) and SMC (Sheet Moulding Compound), which are a mixture of polyester resins, glass fibre and fillers. These materials are typically five times stronger than thermoplastic alternatives and are resistant to many acids, alkalis and aggressive water and soil.

Assembly

Whilst the RapidSTACK is of a comparable cost to that of traditional methods such as concrete or brickwork the overall project cost saving is considerable. The chambers can be built by non-specialist labour, require no lifting equipment on site, are at full strength from the moment of installation and fully conform to manual handling regulations. A typical installation of a 1220x675x900mm deep chamber will take no longer than 2 hours, including backfilling, whereas a concrete or brickwork chamber can take anything up to 4 days to complete. Click here to see a Cost Comparison.

Strength

The RapidSTACK was initially designed around the British Standard used for Manhole Covers and Frames, BS EN124:1994 and, as such, is tested in accordance with the requirements of this standard. Click here for more information about BS EN124. Vertical load testing programmes have been carried out by The University of Nottingham Civil Engineering Department, Lloyds British Testing plc and Saint Gobain Pipelines plc where loads in excess of 44 tonnes have been achieved on unsupported chambers of 600mm deep. At Ceram Building Technologies Ltd a lateral side load test programme took place to simulate the ground pressures placed on chamber walls at various depths up to 7 metres deep. Copies of these reports are available on request.

Adaptability

The RapidSTACK design, and controlled manufacture, ensures repeatable performance and a high strength without weight penalty. The design also allows for the chambers to be customised should the need arise. The chambers are easily drilled or cut to allow the entry of ductwork or pipes and can be quickly modified to fit over existing services. An operating temperature range of -40ºc to +140ºc means that RapidSTACK access chambers are not softened by heat or embrittled by frost. The chambers can be supplied either pre-assembled for ease of use of ‘flat-pack’ for maximum transport efficiency.

Dimensions

As the RapidSTACK system was originally designed around the manhole cover & frame British Standard, so too are the chamber clear opening dimensions. Starting at 450mm x 450mm, standard access chambers are available up to 1220mm x 1220mm, however, as the RapidSTACK is such a versatile product, bespoke chambers with sizes up to 2500mm x 2500MM have been constructed with the insertion of specially designed saddles or fillets.

Accessories

With each installation site varying, the need for retro fitting of equipment on-site is becoming more and more popular. The RapidSTACK can be simply fitted with a range of after market products such as Bolt-on Step Irons, Sub Cover Security Systems, Cable Bearers and Brackets.