TDS Drainage Glossary

Lead time in the trench drain industry refers to the amount of time the customer may need to wait for the product to be available. If items are out of stock, customers are provided with a time frame of when the product will be available from the manufacturer. Trench Drain Systems is the largest stocking distributor for POLYCAST and ULMA products within the USA which lessens the chance of having long lead times depending upon the system needed. Feel free to contact us to check for availability and possible lead times at 610-882-3630.

There are a few terms used when discussing the covers for trench drain systems. The more common term is grates or grating but some other terms include lids, grates, or plates. Grates are available for just about any width and length. Visit our online store to shop for replacement grates in a wide selection of sizes, shapes, and materials that include fiberglass, ductile iron, cast iron, bronze, aluminum, and plastic(s).

Load Class refers to the weight of the moving traffic that will be crossing the trench drain system. For example, Load Class A refers to pedestrian traffic while Load Class F is related to highway and jetliner airport traffic. Keep in mind that the word ‘moving’ traffic is important. If you are planning a project that will have standing weight on a system, ensure that the grate and channels are able to handle the stationary weight. Click here to view a Load Class chart.

Many trench drain grates have openings that accept locking devices that hold the grate in place. Locking devices usually entail a bar and bolt system that locks into the coordinating channel. Some trench drains made of plastic use screws that keep grates in place. This can deter thieves who steal grates for scrap metal but also prevents debris from working in between the grates and channels which can ultimately damage the grates. Hold-down devices also keep grates from hopping when vehicles cross the trench drain system.

Most grates have a slotted pattern that is positioned perpendicular to the trench drain system. Grates with a transverse slotted or longitudinal pattern have slots that run lengthwise rather than across the width of the drainage channels. These grates, depending upon the placement and application, can provide a more polished appearance. They are typically designed for areas needing heel-proof, bicycle-safe, or ADA-compliant grates.