What Is the Trough Drain Kit?

It’s a pre-bundled trench (trough) drain system designed for embedment in concrete. Each kit includes a neutral (flat) invert channel, two ductile iron grates with fasteners, an end outlet, an end cap, and grate locks. In plain English: you receive the water-carrying channel, durable metal grates that finish flush to your slab, and the end pieces—so takeoffs are simple and installation stays on schedule.

Key Specifications & Performance

When a Neutral-Invert Channel Is the Right Choice

A neutral invert means the channel’s interior base is flat—no built-in slope. Choose it when your concrete slab establishes the grade or when you need precise elevation control at transitions (door thresholds, ADA routes, track edges, plaza joints). In short: the slab dictates drainage; the channel follows.

Ideal applications

• Running tracks, stadium concourses, and campus walkways
• Drive lanes, aprons, and loading thresholds
• Retrofits with limited excavation depth
• Door/gate openings requiring exact grate height

Concrete-Embed Installation: Step-by-Step

1. Layout & Elevations: Snap lines; set finished grate height. Verify the slab design provides fall toward the outlet.
2. Excavate & Bed: Allow space for the channel plus concrete encasement. Compact base and place stable bedding.
3. Form & Support: Set forms. Dry-fit channels, end cap, and end outlet. Use rebar legs/ties or channel feet (if provided) to hold elevation.
4. Join Sections: Connect channels per instructions. Use grate locks or temporary bracing to prevent bulging during the pour.
5. Verify Alignment: Check straightness, joint seating, and top-of-grate height vs. slab edges.
6. Place Concrete: Pour evenly on both sides to avoid floating. Consolidate gently to remove voids without shifting channels.
7. Finish & Cure: Finish flush to the grate rails. Allow full cure per mix design before traffic.
8. Install Grates: After cure, set ductile iron grates and fasteners; torque to recommendations.

Case Study: Athletic Track Perimeter Drainage

Site: High school athletics complex with frequent events and stormwater crossing pedestrian paths.
Problem: Ponding along the track edge caused slick spots and maintenance work after storms.
Solution: A 140-ft run of the Trough Drain Kit was installed along the outer lane. The slab band was re-poured with ~1% fall toward the end outlet, and ductile iron grates were selected for durability and secure footing.

Why this kit: The all-in-one package simplified purchasing and staging; the neutral invert made it straightforward to match existing grades. The H-20 rating provided confidence for service vehicles on adjacent access roads.

• Install time: Two days (demo, trenching, set, pour), then post-cure grate install.
• Outcome: Better drainage, fewer slick areas, and a clean, continuous grate line.
• Maintenance: Seasonal grate lift/flush; minimal debris accumulation reported.

Choosing Ductile Iron vs. Galvanized Steel Grates

Ductile iron grates deliver long-term strength and wear resistance in concrete, supporting the kit’s H-20 traffic rating when installed properly. For lighter-duty or decorative zones, galvanized steel grates are an option; note this reduces the load class to C and requires two grates per channel.

Common Installation Mistakes

• Insufficient support during the pour—leads to bowing or misalignment.
• Voids beside the channel—reduce support and lower load rating.
• Incorrect grate elevation relative to slab—creates trip edges or bypass flow.
• Skipping locks/fasteners—allows rattle or displacement under traffic.

Maintenance & Service Life

Establish a routine inspection/cleanout cadence—quarterly for most facilities, monthly during rainy seasons. Lift grates, remove debris, and flush toward the outlet. With proper embedment and care, the channel and ductile iron grates provide a long, low-maintenance service life.

FAQ: Trough Drain Kits

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