The EN 124 standard is the European benchmark used globally to classify manhole covers and gully gratings based on their load-bearing capacity and installation location. Selecting the wrong class can lead to structural failure, vehicle damage, or serious injury.

1. The EN 124 Load Class Hierarchy

The standard is divided into six classes, ranging from light pedestrian use to heavy industrial applications.

Class	Test Load	Typical Application Area	Recommendation
A15	1.5 tons	Green spaces, gardens, and pedestrian-only areas.	Lightweight Composite/Steel
B125	12.5 tons	Footways, pedestrian precincts, and private car parks.	Ductile Iron
C250	25 tons	Carriageway channels of roads (within 0.5m of the curb).	Heavy-duty Ductile Iron
D400	40 tons	Main roads, highways, and high-traffic areas.	Ductile Iron (D400)
E600	60 tons	Docks, aircraft pavements, and industrial loading bays.	Reinforced Cast Iron
F900	90 tons	Airports, runways, and extra-heavy load areas.	Heavy Industrial Iron

2. How to Choose for Heavy Traffic Areas (Class D400)

For “Heavy Traffic,” Class D400 is the industry standard. However, the load class is not the only factor. For long-term durability on busy highways, consider these three technical requirements:

A. Material Selection: Ductile Iron vs. Grey Iron

While Grey Iron is cheaper, Ductile Iron (Grade GJS 500-7) is mandatory for heavy traffic. It offers a superior strength-to-weight ratio and “elongation” properties, meaning it will bend rather than snap under extreme pressure.

B. Anti-Rattle and Stability Features

In high-speed zones, the “clatter” of a manhole cover is a sign of wear. Look for:

• Three-point suspension: Prevents the cover from rocking.

• PE/E-Gasket inserts: Absorbs shock and reduces noise pollution in urban areas.

C. Security and Anti-Theft

Heavy traffic areas often coincide with high-theft risks for scrap metal. Opt for hinged designs or locking mechanisms that require specialized tools to open, ensuring the cover remains in place even under hydraulic pressure from flooding.

3. Why Material Quality Matters (E-E-A-T Signal)

At China Build Material, our manhole covers are manufactured under ISO 9001 and third-party certified to meet EN 124-2 (Ductile Iron) and EN 124-5 (Composite) specifications.

4. FAQ for Global Buyers

Q: Can I use a B125 cover in a residential driveway? A: Yes, B125 is rated for 12.5 tons, which is sufficient for passenger cars and light vans. However, if heavy delivery trucks access the driveway, C250 is recommended.

Q: What is the benefit of Square vs. Round Manhole Covers? A: Round covers are the safest for heavy traffic because they cannot fall through their own opening. Square covers are typically preferred for paved areas (slabs) to maintain aesthetic symmetry.

Q: Does galvanized steel meet EN 124? A: Galvanized steel is often used for recessed covers (A15/B125). For heavy traffic (D400+), ductile iron is the preferred material due to its fatigue resistance.