Recessed Manhole Cover – Split Type with Concrete Infill
Product Introduction
The Recessed Manhole Cover (Split Type) is an invisible access solution designed for landscapes, plazas, pavements, and other finished ground surfaces where a flush, discreet appearance is required. The system consists of two separate components: a sturdy support frame (tray) made from stainless steel, galvanised steel, or aluminium, and a recessed lid that is filled in-situ with concrete, paving stones, or other ground-matching materials.
Once installed and filled, the cover blends seamlessly with the surrounding surface – only the hairline gap reveals its presence. For maintenance access, the entire lid can be lifted out using simple lifting keys, leaving the frame in place. The open recess depth allows 50mm–80mm of infill material, making the cover virtually invisible while supporting pedestrian, cycle, or light vehicular traffic. Hot-dip galvanised or stainless steel variants provide long-term corrosion resistance for exterior applications.
Typical Applications
- Public squares, pedestrian plazas, and commercial precincts
- Private driveways, residential courtyards, and garden pathways
- Pavement utility access (water meters, electrical pits, telecoms)
- Airport aprons and concourses (non-runway areas)
- Hotel forecourts, museum courtyards, and heritage paving zones
- Light-duty industrial floors where a flush finish is required
Product Specifications
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Recessed manhole cover – split two-piece design (frame + infill lid) |
| Frame Material | Stainless steel 304 / 316 (1.5–3.0mm thick), hot-dip galvanised mild steel (2.0–4.0mm, ≥85µm), or aluminium 6061 |
| Lid Material | Steel rim (matching frame material) with recessed cavity for infill |
| Infill Material | Concrete (C25/30 or higher), paving blocks, resin bound stone, or site-matched flooring (by installer) |
| Recess Depth | 50mm, 65mm, 75mm, 80mm (custom depths available) |
| Clear Opening | 300×300mm, 450×450mm, 600×600mm, 800×800mm, 900×600mm, 1000×1000mm (rectangular or square) |
| Frame Outer Size | Clear opening + 80–120mm frame width (custom per project) |
| Load Rating (EN124) | A15 (15kN – pedestrian only) B125 (125kN – footway, pedestrianised zone) C250 (250kN – kerbside, car parks, light traffic) D400 (400kN – roadway, slow-moving vehicles) |
| Lifting System | Two concealed lifting keyholes (penta-key or triangular), optional removable stainless steel plugs |
| Hinge Option | Optional stainless steel piano hinge for hinged lid (split type remains free-liftable without hinge) |
| Surface Finish | Bare (for concrete bonding), mill finish, brushed (stainless), or powder coated (RAL colours) – top surface of lid is intentionally unfinished for infill adhesion |
| Frame Features | Built-in anchor lugs (2 per side), pre-drilled for ground bolts, optional traffic-rated rubber seal ring |
| Corrosion Protection | Passivated & pickled (SS304/316); hot-dip galvanised (min 85µm for steel); anodised (aluminium) |
| Design Life | Stainless steel frame: 50+ years Galvanised steel frame: 25–40 years (depending on environment) Aluminium frame: 40+ years (non-coastal) |
Key Features & Benefits
Truly Invisible when Finished
The concrete or paving infill matches the surrounding ground exactly. No visible metal cover breaks the visual continuity of plazas, walkways, or heritage paving.
Split-type Installation & Access
The frame is permanently set into the ground. For inspection or repair, only the lightweight lid (filled section) needs to be lifted – no need to break surrounding concrete. Lifting keys operate through two small hidden holes, leaving no exposed lifting slots.
Engineered Load Capacity
Load ratings from A15 to D400 (EN124 certified) ensure the cover can withstand expected traffic. The deep recess (up to 80mm) allows a thick infill layer that distributes point loads into the frame, preventing edge chipping. Each unit is proof-tested to 2× rated load.
Corrosion Resistance for Long Service Life
Stainless steel 316 trays are specified for coastal or de-icing salt areas, delivering 50+ years without rust staining. Hot-dip galvanised steel (≥85µm) offers 25–40 years in inland urban or residential environments. Aluminium provides a lightweight, non-rusting alternative for pedestrian zones.
Superior Bonding Design
The lid’s recess features internal cross-ribs, undercut sidewalls, and a rough-finished base. This mechanical key prevents the concrete infill from spinning or delaminating, even under repeated wheel loads.
Anti-rock & Anti-rattling
The lid sits on a continuous perimeter ledge with neoprene or EPDM rubber pads (optional). This eliminates metal-to-metal contact, prevents rocking, and reduces noise from foot or vehicle traffic.
Custom Dimensions & Shapes
Available in any rectangular, square, or custom polygonal size to fit existing pit openings. Frame outer dimensions can be matched to pre-cast concrete rings or brickwork.
One-Stop Customisation
- All specifications – frame material, steel thickness, clear opening size, recess depth, load rating (A15 to D400), anchor lug configuration, lifting key profile, rubber sealing type, and even colour-matched powder coating for the visible frame edge – are fully customisable.
- We provide drawing review, 3D modelling, sample fabrication, and full EN124 performance testing upon request.
- Whether you need a single prototype for a heritage plaza or a high-volume order for an airport expansion, our one-stop solution delivers recessed manhole covers that disappear into your finished ground – yet remain instantly accessible for maintenance.
Downloads
Brochures, CAD drawings, and installation guides will be available for download soon.
Material Standards
Material testing standards and certifications will be updated soon.
Fabrication & Application Standards
Fabrication and application testing standards will be updated soon.
Manufacturer’s Certification
Manufacturer certification details will be updated soon.
Calculators
Cover sizing, load rating, and material calculators will be available soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Product-specific FAQs will be added soon. Please check our main FAQ page for general inquiries.
CUSTOMER TESTIMONIALS
Hot-dip galvanized steel grating is easy to install, gratings are strong, slip-resistant, and rust-proof. The product is strong and well-made. They have their own factory with 20 years+, Had sent me photos during shipping. Very satisfied! Will definitely order from them again.
Absolutely love this fence! The material is thick, galvanized well and anti-rust. Super easy to assemble, strong and stable for outdoor use. The team is very responsive and helpful throughout the whole order. 100% satisfied and will be a long-term buyer.
Bulk order of mesh finished perfectly. Uniform size and high hardness, suitable for construction and fencing projects.
These invisible decorative manhole covers are beyond my expectations. Fine welding, smooth edges and premium material. It can be fully covered with tiles to achieve a completely invisible effect, greatly improving the overall aesthetics of the project. The supplier is responsive and reliable, will definitely reorder.
The chain link fence we ordered is absolutely fantastic in every detail. The galvanized coating is even and thick, providing great anti-rust and weather resistance for long outdoor service. The mesh structure is tight and uniform, very tough and not easy to deform. The whole cooperation experience was wonderful, the supplier replied quickly and arranged everything professionally. Highly recommended for all fencing projects.
Perfect fit and excellent quality. This security door hinge is solid, durable and beautifully finished. It greatly improves door stability and safety. Smooth communication and fast delivery. Very happy with my purchase.
The temporary fence is made of high-quality metal material with solid overall structure. The welding work is neat and firm, not easy to bend or damage. Hot galvanized surface provides great rust and corrosion resistance, perfect for outdoor construction sites, events and public isolation. The whole set is easy to move, assemble and store. The supplier is professional with fast reply and thoughtful service. I am very satisfied with this purchase.
Very happy I chose this linear steel grating! The design is practical, the gaps are well spaced for quick drainage, and it’s really easy to install. The material quality is top notch, tough and weather-resistant for long outdoor life. The service was warm and professional, always quick to reply and helpful. Will absolutely order again for our next project.
Amazing pets mesh! Durable, lightweight and extremely functional for all pet containment needs. The construction is solid, not easy to fray or deform. Perfect for garden fencing, animal pens and outdoor protection. Great communication throughout the whole order. 100% trustworthy supplier, love this product!
Perfect fence for my outdoor space! Very stable, easy to assemble and incredibly durable. The build quality is amazing, no bending or damage at all. It greatly improves my yard security and overall appearance. Friendly support and fast delivery, 100% recommended.