Load Classes for Drainage Channels

The recognised international standard relating to modular drainage channel systems is the European Standard EN 1433:2002 – drainage channels for vehicular and pedestrian areas. The standard defines six load classes within a load range between A 15 – F 900. In addition, EN 1433 specifies applications, definitions, design aspects, testing requirements, markings and quality control for linear drainage channels. The standard also requires drainage channel systems to be tested for loading and watertightness.

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Load classes A 15 – F 900

The European Standard EN 1433:2002 uses six load classifications between A15 – F900 for drainage channels for vehicular and pedestrian areas. The specified values refer to the test load in kilonewtons (kN).

Possible applications:

Footpaths
Cycle paths

Road user:

Pedestrians
Cyclists
Motorbikes
Walkers and wheelchairs

Possible applications:

Driveways
Yards
Terraces
Gardens

Road user:

Small-medium size vehicles
SUVs

Possible applications:

Public areas
Parking spaces (e.g. supermarkets)
Residential areas
Parks

Road user:

Small-medium size cars (optionally with trailer)
SUVs (optionally with trailer)
Vans and transporters
Light trucks and campervans (up to 7.5t)

Possible applications:

Logistics
Commercial areas
Bus stations
Petrol stations
Lorry car parks

Road user:

Lorries
Transporters

Not for installation in the carriageway of motorways

Possible applications:

Industrial yards
Loading area

Road user:

Lorries
Forklifts

Possible applications:

Airports
Ports
Container terminals
Race and test tracks

Road user:

Aeroplanes
Reachstackers
Race cars

Dynamic forces and increased traffic frequency change the requirements for drainage systems! If in doubt, choose a higher load class. If you have any questions, our experts will be happy to advise you on the selection of the right system!

Load classes for ultra heavy-duty loads and dynamic forces

The load classes of the EN 1433 standard are sufficient for many installation situations. For areas that are subject to a high frequency of ultra heavy-duty vehicles exerting extremely high loads and dynamic forces, they need to be more carefully considered on a project-specific basis. There are several factors that need to be taken into account such as steel reinforcement and expansion joints at the installation stage. Our technical support team are able to provide help and advice in these cases based on our knowledge and experience.