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The load classification of drainage channels indicates the maximum load capacity a channel can support without suffering damage. This classification is generally defined by standards such as EN 1433.
Commonly used load classes are A15, B125, C250, D400, E600, F900. Each represents a specific range of maximum loads in kilonewtons (kN) per square meter.
A15: Pedestrian zones, sidewalks and residential areas.
B125: Pedestrian zones, green spaces, light residential areas.
C250: Parking lots, heavy residential areas.
D400: Heavy traffic areas, urban roads.
E600: Industrial zones, heavy parking lots.
F900: Extremely heavy industrial areas, airports.
The load class must be chosen according to the channel's intended use and the expected traffic level. Consult local standards and project specifications to determine the appropriate load class.
Drainage channels can be manufactured in concrete, polymer concrete, SMC (glass-fiber reinforced composite), plastic or steel, depending on project requirements and the required load class.
Yes, most drainage channels are designed and manufactured in compliance with international standards such as EN 1433 in Europe.
The level of maintenance depends on the material used and the environment. Channels should be inspected regularly to ensure that they remain efficient and show no signs of deterioration.
We strongly advise against using channels with loads lower than those specified for a particular application. This can lead to structural damage and compromise safety. Always comply with the manufacturer's load recommendations.
A drainage channel is a linear or trench-like structure designed to collect, convey and evacuate runoff, liquids or other materials.
For information specific to local standards, we recommend consulting local authorities, standards bodies or project specifications to ensure compliance with current regulations.
A drainage channel is a linear or trench-like structure designed to collect, convey and evacuate runoff, liquids or other materials.
A drainage channel prevents flooding by eliminating excess surface water. It is also used to collect rainwater, waste and other liquids, ensuring the safety, hygiene and durability of surfaces.
The channels are installed in various locations such as:
  • Roads and traffic lanes: To manage rainwater from roads.
  • Pedestrian areas: To evacuate water and avoid puddles.
  • Industrial areas: To manage stormwater, industrial liquids and waste.
  • Parking lots: To evacuate rainwater and prevent it from accumulating on the surface.
  • Residential areas: To ensure drainage in urban areas.
The installation of culverts is essential to prevent flooding, reduce erosion, improve road safety, avoid the accumulation of stagnant water and protect infrastructure from water damage.
A culvert collects runoff water from paved or asphalt surfaces through a linear opening, conveys it through the culvert channel, and directs it to a discharge point such as a storm drainage network, a storage or retention system or a water treatment system.
Yes, there are specific channels for different applications. The channels are classified according to standard load classes ranging from A15 for pedestrian traffic to F900 for installations involving heavy loads, such as airports and industrial, logistics or transshipment zones.
The choice depends on the level of traffic, the type of activity in the area, the characteristics of the ground, and the requirements of the project. Our MEA teams are here to help you choose the most appropriate solution.
Yes, it is possible to install drainage channels yourself. There are dedicated packs available online and in stores for DIY installation, such as the PEAPRK channel packs with different covers. DIY installation should be limited to private areas such as driveways, terraces, gardens or courtyards. We recommend that you follow the manufacturer's installation instructions to the letter. For all other areas of application, we strongly advise you to call on the services of professionals.
You can buy your drainage channels for private use at major DIY stores, but also online at sites such as ManoMano, Leroy Merlin or Amazon. In particular, you'll find MEAPARK packs of 3, 6, 9 or 12 meters, depending on your needs and desired grating design. Professional channels are sold through dedicated distribution networks.
Rainwater infiltration is the process by which rainwater penetrates the ground, recharging the water table and contributing to the natural recharge of groundwater reservoirs.
Rainwater infiltration is crucial for several reasons:
  • Groundwater recharge: Helps maintain groundwater levels, essential for drinking water supplies.
  • Flood reduction: By absorbing rainwater, infiltration limits runoff, helping to prevent flooding in urban and suburban areas.
  • Improved water quality: Soil acts as a natural filter, removing contaminants and improving water quality before it reaches the water table.
To encourage infiltration, we can use practices such as creating permeable surfaces, installing retention basins, using green roofs and preserving natural wetlands.
Environmental benefits include preserving aquatic ecosystems, reducing surface water pollution, preserving biodiversity and regulating ground temperatures.
Environmental benefits include preserving aquatic ecosystems, reducing surface water pollution, preserving biodiversity and regulating ground temperatures.
In urban areas, rainwater infiltration can contribute to the sustainable management of water resources, the reduction of drainage-related infrastructure costs, and the creation of more resilient urban environments.
Some challenges include soil contamination by polluting substances, soil compaction due to urbanization, and the need to design infrastructures suitable for infiltration.
Yes, many local and national regulations require proper stormwater management, including provisions for infiltration, to minimize environmental impacts.
Yes, in addition to providing aesthetic and energy benefits, green roofs help infiltrate rainwater by absorbing and retaining water.
By recharging the water table, rainwater infiltration contributes to the long-term availability of groundwater, essential for drinking water and irrigation.
You can promote stormwater infiltration by adopting sustainable stormwater management practices, encouraging the use of permeable surfaces and participating in community water conservation initiatives.
A rainwater infiltration tunnel can be part of a stormwater management system used to collect, store and infiltrate rainwater into the ground. This type of structure is designed to prevent flooding, reduce rainwater runoff, and allow water to infiltrate into the ground rather than collecting on the surface. What’s it for? Flood prevention: Infiltration tunnels help prevent flooding by collecting excess rainwater and directing it to areas where it can infiltrate into the ground. Reduced runoff: By capturing rainwater, infiltration tunnels help reduce surface water runoff, thereby limiting soil erosion and the transport of pollutants to watercourses. Groundwater recharge: The infiltration of rainwater into the ground contributes to groundwater recharge, thus supporting the availability of groundwater. Sustainable management of water resources: By encouraging the infiltration and reuse of rainwater, infiltration tunnels contribute to the sustainable management of water resources, reducing dependence on conventional sources of drinking water.
SMC MEA (Sheet Molding Compound) is a heat-set composite material used in the manufacture of drainage channels. It consists of glass fibers impregnated with thermosetting resin.
SMC MEA channels offer excellent resistance to corrosion, chemicals and weathering. They are lightweight, durable and easy to install. The composite material also allows for flexible design and offers good mechanical strength.
SMC MEA offers a unique combination of lightness, mechanical strength, chemical resistance and durability. It is often chosen for its ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions while being easy to handle and install.
SMC MEA channels are commonly used in stormwater drainage systems, parking lots, industrial areas, commercial zones and other areas requiring efficient drainage.
SMC MEA can be considered environmentally friendly thanks to its durability, corrosion resistance (reducing the need for frequent replacement) and potential recyclability.
Maintenance of SMC MEA drainage channels is generally straightforward. Regular cleaning to remove debris and sediment is recommended. The material’s chemical resistance minimizes the risk of corrosion.
Yes, SMC MEA channels are often suitable for industrial environments because of their chemical resistance, durability and ability to withstand mechanical loads.
Factors such as load-bearing capacity, chemical resistance, drainage requirements and environmental conditions must be taken into account when selecting SMC MEA channels.
Polymer concrete is a composite material combining mineral materials with polymer resins. It is used in the manufacture of drainage channels to offer improved properties over conventional concrete, in particular non-porosity, lightness and resistance to chemicals and hydrocarbons.
Polymer concrete drainage channels offer high resistance to weathering, corrosion and chemicals. They are also lightweight, durable and easy to handle.
Polymer concrete drainage channels are often used in outdoor spaces such as parking lots, industrial areas, courtyards, driveways and other areas requiring effective stormwater management.
Some polymer concrete drainage channels can be made from recycled materials, which can help reduce environmental impact. The durability of the material can also minimize the need for frequent replacement.
Maintenance is generally straightforward. Just clean the channels regularly to prevent debris build-up.
Yes, because of their resistance to chemicals and ability to withstand heavy mechanical loads, polymer concrete drainage channels are often suitable for industrial environments.
Factors such as drainage capacity, load-bearing capacity, aesthetic requirements and local environmental conditions must be taken into account when selecting polymer concrete drainage channels.
An English courtyard is an excavation built into the side of a roadway to allow sunken access, often to a basement window or door. It can be built in SMC (thermosetting matrix composites) or concrete.
SMC yards generally offer superior lightness, corrosion and weather resistance, and ease of handling. SMC also allows for a more flexible design.
Concrete courtyards are often preferred for their strength and mechanical resistance. They are also adaptable in height and width, and can be made to order.
English courtyards in SMC or concrete are commonly used in urban areas to provide access to building basements, particularly in residential or commercial areas.
Routine maintenance usually involves cleaning the grilles or openings to prevent debris build-up.
Yes, SMC or concrete English courtyards are often used in residential areas to facilitate access to basements while offering protection against water infiltration.
Yes! MEA is constantly working on developing new solutions for the challenges of the future. We can already see today that our climate is changing and bringing with it new weather conditions. We are increasingly experiencing concentrated heavy rain, which encourages flooding and high water events. That is why we not only offer reliable drainage and storage solutions for rainwater, but also, for example, waterproof basement windows and light shafts. We would be happy to advise you comprehensively on your options for preparing yourself for heavy rain and high water events.
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