The Benefits of ACO Drains in Commercial and Industrial Applications

Introduction

This is due to their efficient water management capabilities, enhanced safety features, and durability in demanding conditions. In this blog, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about ACO drains including who can benefit from them, how they compare to other drainage systems, and how we can help.

What Are ACO Drains?

ACO drains are advanced drainage systems that are designed to effectively channel and manage water flow in various commercial and industrial environments. They are made with stainless steel, polymer concrete, or fibreglass channels with grates or covers that capture and redirect water, preventing flooding and water damage.

Why Do I Need an ACO Drain?

In 2008, the SUDS legislation and Front Garden Rules were introduced to tackle urban flooding caused by more houses and paved front gardens. The idea was to manage rainwater better and reduce the strain on drainage systems. As a result, if you're planning a new driveway with a solid surface, you'll need a drainage system that keeps the water on your property, rather than letting it flood the road or overwhelm the storm drain. The rules mainly apply to the side of your property that faces the road or path, while the back of your property has more flexibility. By following these rules, we can create more sustainable and flood-resistant urban areas.

Which Industries Would Benefit from Channel Drains?

Channel drains are most often seen on commercial premises in common locations like car parks, driveways, swimming pools, patios, gardens that include water features, and more. They are suitable for a range of industries, including:

• Food and beverage processing
• Manufacturing and industrial facilities
• Warehouses and logistics centres
• Commercial kitchens and restaurants
• Retail spaces and shopping centres
• Airports and transportation hubs
• Healthcare facilities
• Sports facilities and stadiums

Benefits of ACO Drains

Efficient Water Management

ACO drains efficiently collect and redirect water which prevents standing water or flooding. They have self-cleaning features and customisable flow rates ensuring proper drainage, and reducing the risk of water damage, mould growth, and slippery surfaces.

Safety

The grates and covers that come with ACO drains are designed to provide slip resistance which minimises the risk of accidents. This feature is important, especially in high-traffic areas.

Contamination Removal

Channel drains can be equipped with additional features like oil separators, sediment traps, or grates with small slots to help filter out debris, contaminants, and pollutants. This helps maintain a cleaner and healthier environment.

Durability

ACO channel drains are made to withstand heavy loads, chemical exposure, extreme temperatures, and other demanding conditions. They’re therefore highly durable and can handle heavy traffic making them perfect for industrial and high-stress environments.

Versatility

ACO drains offer a lot of versatility in terms of design options, channel width, and load classes, allowing you to customise to specific requirements.

Are There Disadvantages to ACO Drains?

Whilst ACO drains provide many benefits, there are also a few potential drawbacks. First of all, depending on the design and installation requirements, ACO drains may have a higher initial cost compared to a traditional drainage system. Also, the maintenance of ACO drains may require professional expertise and specialised equipment.

It’s also possible that ACO channel drains can become clogged and blocked with soil, silt, leaves, and other debris due to their open design.

What Size ACO Channel Drain Do I Need?

To determine what size channel drain you need, you need to get an accurate assessment of the expected flow of drainage water on your premises. Examine the area and whether any water drips from the roof in rainy conditions as this is often the case in certain areas.

It’s also important to choose an ACO drain that can withstand an expected loading weight, for example, if the drain is being placed where there are many heavy goods vehicles. You will therefore need a heavy-duty ACO drain that is durable for these conditions. If you’re unsure, a professional like the Drain Guys can help.

How The Drain Guys Can Help You

Here at the Drain Guys, we specialise in providing professional drainage solutions including the installation, maintenance, and repair of channel drains. Our experienced team are on hand to assess your specific requirements, recommend suitable ACO drain systems, and ensure they are installed efficiently and reliably. Contact us today for a consultation where we can help with your drainage needs.