ACO POLYCRETE PTY LTD PRODUCT APPRAISAL REPORT 13/24

Transcription

1 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 1 ACO POLYCRETE PTY LTD PRODUCT APPRAISAL REPORT 13/24 SAKU Thermoplastic Access Cover with Ductile Iron Frame STANDARD: pren 124-6:2014.2(E) Gully tops and manhole tops for vehicular and pedestrian areas Part 6 Gully tops and manhole tops made from Polypropylene (PP), Polypropylene with mineral modifiers (PP-MD), Polyethylene (PE) or Polyvinyl-chloride (PVC-U). Publication Date: 20 February 2015

2 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 2 Document History The following information indicates the changes made to this document. Date Version File Location 20/10/2014 Peer Review 20/2/2015 Publication Version Peer Reviewers U:\PP1 Industry Performance and Regulation\PP1-012 Product Appraisals\Civil Asset Infrastructure\2013\PA 1324 ACO Polycrete Pty Ltd SAKU Thermoplastic Cover and DI frames\peer Review\PA 13_24 ACO Polycrete_SAKU.docx U:\PP1 Industry Performance and Regulation\PP1-012 Product Appraisals\Civil Asset Infrastructure\2013\PA 1324 ACO Polycrete Pty Ltd SAKU Thermoplastic Cover and DI frames\final\pa 13_24 ACO Polycrete_SAKU Publication docx Name/Title Organisation Date Expert Panel WSAA Infrastructure Products and Material Network 2/12/2014 Mohamed Yoosuf, Senior Engineer, Standards Standards & Design, Engineering Dept City West Water 21/11/2014 Adam Glasson, Technical Officer Goulburn Valley Water 28/11/2014 Leith Forbes, Contractor WSAA 17/10/2014 Carl Radford, Product Appraisal Manager WSAA 20/10/2014 Approvals Name/Title Signature Date Carl Radford, Product Appraisal Manager Carl Radford 20/2/2015

3 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 3 Overview of WSAA The Water Services Association of Australia (WSAA) is the peak industry body that supports the Australian Urban Water Industry. Its members and associate members provide water and sewerage services to approximately 20 million Australians and many of Australia's largest industrial and commercial enterprises. The Association facilitates collaboration, knowledge sharing, networking and cooperation within the urban water industry. It is proud of the collegiate attitude of its members which has led to industry-wide approaches to national water issues. WSAA can demonstrate success in the standardisation of industry performance monitoring and benchmarking, as well as many research outcomes of national significance. The WSAA Executive retains strong links with policy makers and legislative bodies and their influencers, to monitor emerging issues of importance to the urban water industry. WSAA is regularly consulted and its advice sought by decision makers when developing strategic directions for the water industry. WSAA was formed in 1995 as a non-profit organisation to foster the exchange of information relating to the provision of urban water services between industry, government and the community, and to promote sustainable water resource management. The Association s main activities focus on four areas: 1.influencing national and state policies on the provision of urban water services and sustainable water resource management 2. promoting debate on environmentally sustainable development and management of water resources and the community health requirements of public water supplies 3. improving industry performance and establishing benchmarks and industry leading practices for water service processes; and 4. fostering the exchange of information on education, training, research, water and wastewater management and treatment and other matters of common interest. Copyright This document is copyrighted. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronically or mechanical, for any purpose, without the express written permission of Water Services Association of Australia Limited. Copyright 2014 by WATER SERVICES ASSOCIATION of Australia Limited All rights reserved.

4 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 4 CONTENTS 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Recommendation THE APPLICANT Supplier Manufacturers Thermoplastic Cover: Frame: THE PRODUCT SCOPE OF THE APPRAISAL APPRAISAL CRITERIA General Quality Assurance Requirements Performance Requirements COMPLIANCE WITH APPRAISAL CRITERIA Compliance with Quality Assurance Requirements Compliance with Appraisal Requirements Material requirements Thermoplastic materials UV resistance Glass fibres Ductile iron materials Elastomeric materials HDPE materials - not included in this appraisal Stainless steel components Compliance with WSA PS-293 pren 124-6:2012 Performance Requirements General Design requirements Permanent deformation Effect of heating Fatigue resistance Deflection under load Creep strength Shock resistance at lower temperatures (impact resistance) Assessment summary Class B125 load bearing capacity pren 124-6: load tests Compliance with WSA PS (a) Requirement Variations Class B Additional Classification Gas-tightness Water-tightness Skid resistance FITTING INSTRUCTIONS, INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE GUIDE PRODUCT MARKING PACKAGING AND TRANSPORTATION PRODUCT WARRANTY... 21

5 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/ WATER AGENCY EXPERIENCE WITH THE PRODUCT OR FIELD TESTING REPORT DISCUSSION OUTCOMES OF EXPERT PANEL PRODUCT REVIEW LIFE EXPECTANCY FUTURE WORKS REPORT RECOMMENDATION DISCLAIMER Issue of Report Limits on Reliance on Information and Recommendations Disclaimer of liability Need for independent assessment No Updating No Warranty APPENDIX A - QUALITY CERTIFICATIONS APPENDIX B - WSA PRODUCT SPECIFICATION APPENDIX C - ACO POLYCRETE PTY LTD - SUPPLIER CONTACTS APPENDIX D FIELD REPORT APPENDIX E PRODUCT DRAWINGS APPENDIX F INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS... 38

6 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/ EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ACO Polycrete Pty Ltd imports the thermoplastic SAKU access cover from ACO Severin Ahlmann GmbH & Co. KG in Germany. The Ductile Iron (DI) frame is manufacture in China by Weifang Weikai Casting Ltd. The ACO SAKU Access Cover is assembled and marketed from ACO Polycrete premises in Emu Plains, NSW. ACO Severin Ahlmann is responsible for the design and tooling of the SAKU access cover and the manufacture is by another German company, Burener Maschinenfabrick GmbH (BMF) a specialist in plastic processing. ACO was established in Germany in The now ACO Group has subsidiaries and manufacturing facilities in over 40 countries employing more than 3,800 people with sales in excess of $1 billion p/a. ACO Polycrete Pty Ltd was established in 1993, and offers an extensive portfolio of stormwater, building drainage, cable pit ducting, access covers and other products for niche applications. ACO Polycrete Pty Ltd has AS/NZS ISO 9001:2008 quality management system certified by SAI Global with Certificate No. QEC1883. ACO Severin Ahlmann GmbH & Co has a Quality Management System in compliance with ISO 9001:2008 certified by Kiwa international License No Burener Maschinenfabrick GmbH has a Quality Management System in compliance with ISO 9001:2008 certified by DQS Registration No QM08. Weifang Weikai Casting Co. Ltd is certified to ISO 9001:2008 by SGS United Kingdom Ltd. Certificate No. CN04/ The SAKU Access Cover and Frame has demonstrated compliance with WSA PS-293 Thermoplastic Access Covers and Frames for Water Supply and Sewerage to pren 124-6:2014.2(E) with described variations (See Appendix B ). The SAKU thermoplastic circular cover is: Rated Class B wrt AS 3996 and Class B125 wrt pren Lightweight (8.3 kg) which benefits WHS to minimise lifting injuries. Manufactured from polypropylene with 30% short glass fibres and 2% carbon black for UV resistance. Durable and resistant to corrosive environments such as sewer and seaside applications. Elevated temperature tested. Sustained load tested. Impact tested. Slip rated for pedestrian safety. Bolted down to frame with A4 M12 stainless steel hex-head bolts with removable plastic plugs. Fitted with a single industry standard AS 3996 lift point with a removable plastic cover. The SAKU Class B Access Cover and Frame is suitable for sewerage installations, including maintenance holes, maintenance chambers, maintenance shafts and inspection openings and also water supply covers including valve or scour chambers. Although not included in this appraisal, ACO also supply optional HDPE riser rings to provide incremental height adjustment to suit surface changes. pren includes in Appendix ZA 2.2 Declaration of performance (DoP) and ACO advise that this declaration will be available from ACO (Germany) after EN is published.

7 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 7 The life expectancy of the ACO SAKU thermoplastic access cover and frame is indeterminate and reference to pren124-6:2014 indicates UV stability (artificial weathering resistance is performance based with prescriptive criteria). Life Expectancy will depend on site specifics. ACO will provide a recommendation and/or warranty on request. The ACO recommendation will include the seal and is contingent on correct installation and proper specification in the correct application. Over many years, ACO would expect some (aesthetic) deterioration in the material but not its strength i.e. the surface could show aging by perhaps turning grey colour or some delamination. As the material is UV stabilised, this should not occur for a long time. 1.1 Recommendation It is recommended that WSAA members and associates, subject to any specific requirements, conditionally accept/authorise the ACO SAKU DN 600 thermoplastic access cover and DI frame as listed in Section 4 "Scope of Appraisal, on the understanding that this product is innovative and yet to be fully proven as fit for purpose. Installation should be relevant to systems as provided in pipeline design, installation, acceptance testing and commissioning in accordance with applicable WSAA Codes and the manufacturer s requirements where specified. 2 THE APPLICANT 2.1 Supplier ACO Polycrete Pty Ltd is located at Old Bathurst Rd, Emu Plains, 2750, NSW. ACO Polycrete assemble and market the SAKU access cover and frame from the above location. Established in 1946, the ACO Group has manufactured products for the construction industry for over 60 years. The group operates on a global basis through its subsidiaries and manufacturing facilities in over 40 countries. ACO employs more than 3,800 people and has sales in excess of $1 billion p/a. ACO Polycrete Pty Ltd was established in Australia in 1993, and offers an extensive portfolio of stormwater, building drainage, cable pit and ducting; access covers and other products for niche applications, both external and internal. The SAKU cover and frame is assembled in Emu Plains, NSW. The cover is sourced from ACO Severin Ahlmann GmbH & Co. KG, Germany. The manufacturer of the frame is Weifang Weikai Casting Ltd and imported by Kede (Australia). 2.2 Manufacturers Thermoplastic Cover: ACO Severin Ahlmann GmbH & Co. KG was founded as a family owned company in 1946 and renamed as ACO Severin Ahlmann in ACO Severin Ahlmann is a world market leader in drainage technology built on intense research and development. ACO Severin Ahlmann is responsible for the design and tooling of the SAKU access cover and the manufacture is by another German company, Burener Maschinenfabrick GmbH (BMF). BMF is a specialist in plastic processing with some 60 modern injection moulding machines, removal robots and centralised material feed to support the production processes Frame: Weifang Weikai Casting Ltd was relocated in 2004 and hence changed its name. Today it still specialises in manufacturing and exporting grey cast and ductile iron products. The foundry has a working area of 48,618 square metres and has the capability of producing 10,000 tonnes of casting products per year. The foundry is equipped with more than 80 sets of cast iron-processing machines complete with testing facilities and technical

8 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 8 inspection equipment. Products manufactured from the foundry include access covers, road grates, hand wheels and bases for road signs/lamps. Weifang Weikai Casting Ltd exports grey cast and ductile iron products to Australia, Japan, South Korea USA, UK, Germany, and several other European countries, and employs around 400 people with sales in excess of US$11 million. In order to meet EN 124, in 2004, Weifang Weikai Casting Ltd was audited and accredited through SGS quality system certification for ISO The foundry and its licensees products are also Product Certified to EN 124. The foundry is also Product Certified to AS for cast iron access covers sold by ACO into Australian market. 3 THE PRODUCT ACO s SAKU cover and frame system provides 600 mm diameter clear opening and comprises a sealed and lockable lightweight thermoplastic cover and ductile iron frame. ACO also has available optional light weight HDPE riser rings (ASTM D-4976) (Not included in this appraisal.). The ACO Product Data Sheet for the SAKU cover, frame, seal and riser rings is shown in Figure 1.

9 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 9 FIGURE 1 PRODUCT DATA SHEET ACO ACCESS COVER

10 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 10 The SAKU thermoplastic circular cover is: Rated Class B wrt AS 3996 and Class B125 wrt pren Lightweight (8.3 kg) which benefits WHS to minimise lifting injuries Manufactured from polypropylene with 2% carbon black and 30% short glass fibres Durable and resistant to corrosive environments such as sewer and seaside applications Elevated temperature tested Sustained load tested Impact tested Slip rated for pedestrian safety Bolted down to frame with A4 M12 stainless steel hex-head bolts. The ACO SAKU cover is also fitted with a single industry standard AS 3996 lift point with a removable polypropylene cover. This lift point allows access to a short handled lifting key. Example shown below. FIGURE 2 ACO POLYCRETE UNIVERSAL LIFTING KEY The ductile iron frame (fitted with an EPDM rubber seal) is: 600 mm diameter clear opening. Manufactured from ductile iron to AS 1831, grade 500/7, coated (except for screw threads and sealing surfaces) with Alkyd Ready Mixed Paint (C03-4) and described as black with alkyd resin modified with styrene and acrylics with Exlander Pigment, Drier and Organic Solvents. The DI frame weight is 18 kg. Water-tight and gas-tight with EPDM seal to AS bolt points for anchorage and to fasten industry standard makeup riser rings. The HDPE optional riser rings (Not included in this appraisal.) provide six overall rise combinations from 38mm to 204mm. See ACO SAKU Product Data Sheet in Section 3 above. 4 SCOPE OF THE APPRAISAL The scope of the appraisal covers the ACO SAKU cover and frame system as generally described in Section 3 above.

11 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/ APPRAISAL CRITERIA 5.1 General Appraisal criteria is determined by the WSAA Infrastructure Products and Materials Network and regularly reviewed to ensure that the criteria reflect the requirements of WSAA members. 5.2 Quality Assurance Requirements The WSAA product appraisal network accepts access covers manufactured under cover of a third party certified management system complying with AS/NZS ISO 9001 and having ISO Type 5 product certification in accordance with EN (when published) by a JAS- ANZ accredited Certification Assessment Body (CAB) or by a CAB accredited by an international accreditation system recognised by JAS-ANZ. 5.3 Performance Requirements The Appraisal Criteria is drawn from WSA PS 293 and EN 124 Part 6 (under development pren 124-6:2014.2E) with additional load test requirements based on WSA Copies of the above Product Specification can be found in Appendix B or downloaded from the WSAA website. 6 COMPLIANCE WITH APPRAISAL CRITERIA 6.1 Compliance with Quality Assurance Requirements The following certificates have been submitted by ACO to demonstrate quality compliance: ACO Polycrete Pty Ltd is quality assured to ISO 9001:2008 by SAI Global Certificate No. QEC1883. The scope of this certification covers the manufacture of precast polymer concrete (polycrete) products, steel access covers, gratings and chemical containment products. The registration also covers the supply of glass reinforced plastic (GRP), plastic concrete and metal products to the building industry. ACO Severin Ahlmann GmbH & Co applies a Quality Management System in compliance with ISO 9001:2008 certified by Kiwa international License No The scope of this certification includes design, production and sales of products and systems for civil engineering including plastics products. Burener Maschinenfabrick GmbH maintains a Quality Management System in compliance with ISO 9001:2008 certified by DQS Registration No QM08. The scope of this certification includes manufacture of plastic moulded parts and injection moulds. Weifang Weikai Casting Co. Ltd has been certified as meeting the requirements of ISO 9001:2008 by SGS United Kingdom Ltd. Certificate No. CN04/ The scope includes manufacture of cast iron covers, gratings and fittings for vehicular and pedestrian areas. ISO Type 5 product certification is not available at this time due to there being no particular published standard. See Future Work in Section 15 below. Refer to Appendix C for details of the above certificates. Copies are held by WSAA. Note: PrEN 124-6: (E) includes in Appendix ZA3, a requirement for CE Marking and labelling. ACO has advised that; at this stage, the Saku cover does not meet with the CE Marking requirements as this is not a requirement of the current EN124. However, by the time EN124-6 is published, ACO in Germany will ensure CE marking requirements will have been met. 6.2 Compliance with Appraisal Requirements Material requirements Thermoplastic materials Ref: WSA PS and PrEN 124-6:2014.2E Clauses 4.1, 4.2 and Annex A

12 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 12 PrEN 124-6: Clause 4.1, Table 1 Materials for thermoplastic manhole tops and Gully tops nominates a series of EN standards for polypropylene (PP) materials as acceptable and ACO has not provided evidence that the SAKU KARILEN -P material is in compliance with any of the listed EN Standards. However, PrEN 124-6, Annex A Permanent Set Test is also listed and the SAKU cover has demonstrated compliance with those requirements. PrEN 124-6: Table A2 Typical properties for PP filled with 30% glass fibres provides the following: Property Value / Unit Method Density 1.14 g/cm 3 ISO 1183 Melt volume flow rate (230ºC / 2, 16 kg) (230ºC / 5 kg) 1.00 cm 3 /10min 5.00 cm 3 /10min ISO 1183 Tensile Modulus (Secant) 26,500 MPa ISO Flexural Modulus (Secant) 5,500 MPa ISO 178 The basic properties of KARILEN -P are shown in Table 2. TABLE 2 PROPERTIES OF THE KARILEN -P Properties Unit Test method Condition value Density g/ml ISO C 1.13 Melt flow rate MFR g/10 min ISO /2,16 3 Shrinkage % ISO Langs quer Mechanical Bending strength MPa ISO mm/min 140 Tensile strength at break MPa ISO mm/min 85 Strain at break % ISO mm/min 3.5 Modulus of elasticity in tension MPa ISO mm/min 6,500 CHARPY impact strength kj/m 2 ISO 179/1eU 23 C -30 C CHARPY Notched impact strength kj/m 2 ISO 179/1eA 23 C -30 C Thermal 10 8 Heat deflection temperature HDT/A C ISO MPa 145 Electrical

13 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 13 Properties Unit Test method Condition value Spec Surface Resistivity Ω ISO 93 Platte 1mm Spec volume density Ω x cm ISO 93 Platte 1mm UV resistance Ref: WSA PS and PrEN 124-6:2014.2E Clause 4.3. ACO has submitted a Data Sheet stating the SAKU access cover material as KARILEN -P, nominally black, UV stabilized with 2% carbon black, 30% short glass fiber filled polypropylene (homopolymer). Component sections are welded together. Polypropylene (PP) Materials fulfilling the requirements of Clause having 2% carbon black are deemed UV resistant without further testing. PrEN 124-6: (E) Table 2 UV Stability (artificial weathering resistance) describes the change of colour shall not exceed Stage 3 of the grey scale according to EN A02. Due to the above UV resistance statement no information has been provided on change of colour due to weathering Glass fibres. Ref: PrEN 124-6:2014.2E Annex A. ACO has submitted a Material Specification Sheet (SAKU-1.2 Budelsdorf, August 2014) demonstrating glass fibre compliance with the PrEN 124-6:2014.2E - Annex A - Nominated characteristics of glass fibres used for reinforcement of PP polymer. ACO has also submitted Taiwan Glass Ind. Corp. Specification of Chopped Strand TGFS 202P-4.0mm. The specification demonstrates general compliance with the requirements for glass fibres with respect to length, width and surface coating and is relevant to Table A2 (above) for the KARILEN -P material containing 30% glass fibres Ductile iron materials Ref: AS 3996:2006 ACO has submitted Drawing No. A TMR Type 60 SAKU Frame. The SAKU frame is ductile iron (DI) to AS 1831, Grade 500/7 and coated (except for screw threads and sealing surfaces) with Alkyd Ready Mixed Paint (C03-4), described as black with alkyd resin modified with styrene and acrylics with Exlander Pigment, Drier and Organic Solvents in compliance with AS 3996:2006. The depth of the M12 bolt thread engagement for bolt down of the PP cover is equal to the bolt diameter and the bolt holes are blind to not protrude through the frame. The frame has 8 x 15mm holes located in protruding lugs to allow the frame to be bolted to the access chamber top. The visible surface annulus of the frame is 8mm. The depth of penetration of the bolt down cover into the frame is 34mm. The assembly includes an EPDM elastomeric seal Elastomeric materials Ref: AS 1646 (AS 681). The SAKU thermoplastic cover can be sealed into the DI frame with a 600mm diameter, 14 mm circular cross section EPDM rubber sealing ring ( O ring). The seal is manufactured by Arnold Jäger Holding GmbH in Hannover, Germany. Arnold Jäger Holding has its many manufacturing sites certified by Bureau Veritas for compliance with DIN EN ISO 9001:2008, Certificate No. DE Rev.1.

14 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 14 ACO has submitted a Jäger Quality Statement No for the cellular rubber profile. The EPDM Compound Code is and the physical properties are: o Shore A Hardness 15 ± 5 ShA o Density 0.45 ± 0.10 g/cm 3 The technical properties are specified as follows: o Temperature range -30ºC to 110ºC shorter periods +150ºC o Resistance to weathering, ozone and UV o Flame resistance o Resistance to ageing o Resistance to petrol o Resistance to vegetable oil o Resistance to mineral oil and greases o Resistance to Alcohol o Resistance to Acids, lye Excellent Fair Excellent Low Good Low Good Good ACO has submitted Drawing No. GI-POI as the fully dimensioned drawing of the elastomeric seal. The drawing notes compliance with ISO for manufacturing tolerances. Refer Appendix E. ACO has submitted an internal test report demonstrating compliance with AS 1646:2007 Clause 3.2 Splice Joint, to show no separation of the joint when tested through an angle of 200º and beyond to 360º HDPE materials - not included in this appraisal. Ref: ASTM Specification D-4976 The optional HDPE (ASTM D-4976) riser rings provide six overall rise combinations from 38mm to 204mm. See ACO SAKU Product Data Sheet in Section 3 above. The riser rings are manufactured by Ladtech Inc ( in the USA from 100% recycled material Stainless steel components The SAKU cover is bolted to the DI frame with stainless steel (A4) M12 x 30 mm hex-head bolts (Grade 316, high corrosion resistance) having 800 MPa tensile strength and 600 MPa yield strength. The hexagon bolt heads are recessed into the cover and a HDPE cap fitted to provide a clean cover surface. Note: ACO has advised that customers may order specialised security headed bolts from an available range. 6.3 Compliance with WSA PS-293 pren 124-6:2012 Performance Requirements General To demonstrate initial type testing compliance with DIN EN 124:1994, ACO has submitted a consolidated inspection and test report No dated 13/11/2012 from DAkks MPA Bremen DIN ISO/IEC accredited test laboratory located in Bremen, Germany. MPA Bremen selected the test samples from ACO stock. The following clauses summarise the report.

15 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/ Design requirements MPA Bremen reviewed the design requirements as nominated in Section 7 of DIN EN 124:1994. The sample products were without obvious defects. The securing of the cover to the frame was subjected to pull-out test. Three tests were carried out using a calibrated test machine with the force applied to the centre of the cover in increments of 0.01 to 0.05 kn/s. The maximum pull-out force was 348 to 352 kg/m2 and displacement (distortion) measured as 12 mm to 12.6 mm. Apparently the cover was not dislodged from the frame. Three SAKU samples were assessed for dimensions and weight. All dimensions were within drawing tolerances. o The weight of the cover was 7.8 kg o The depth of insertion of the cover was 36 mm o The diameteral clearance of the cover in the frame averaged 5.5 mm o The weight of the cover, frame and concrete surround assembly was 50.4 kg which was slightly more than the ACO nominated 47 kg. The frame bearing pressure on the concrete surround by test load was 0.95N/mm2 - Refer Appendix E for assembly drawing Permanent deformation Three SAKU samples were load tested for permanent deformation. The three test pieces pre-treatment and the test were carried out in accordance with the standard DIN EN 124: Sections 8.1 to 8.3. At first 2/3 of the test load required for Class B 125 to determine the permanent setting was applied to the cover by means of a test plate [diameter 250 mm]. The results determined a permanent setting average of 0.77mm well within the allowable 6.05 mm requirement for Class B 125 cover. The full test load for Class B 125 [125kN] followed and was applied and retained for 30 seconds. The results are reported as no changes and no cracks appeared during the test. The test requirement was deemed as fulfilled satisfactorily. One SAKU test piece was then tested to breaking and the breaking load was 162.4kN or 30% more than the Class B 125 rating Effect of heating MPA Bremen conducted testing to Determine the effect of heating. One cover was tested in the manufacturer s testing device and one cover in the testing device of MPA Bremen. To examine the effect of heating the covers were placed into an oven heated to the temperature of (120 ±2) C with forced ventilation and kept there until the above mentioned temperature was achieved again and for the period of 60 min starting from this moment. After the test period expiry the test pieces were taken out of the oven and cooled to room temperature. Finally the test pieces were examined without optical magnification for surface changes, such as e.g. bubbles, cracks, splitting, or open flow lines. The results are stated as No visual changes detected on either cover.

16 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/ Fatigue resistance MPA Bremen conducted testing to provide Examination of fatigue resistance. To examine the fatigue resistance one plastic cover was subjected to 10,000 load cycles. The upper load corresponded at that to 1/3 of the test load required for the respective class. For a cover of Class B 125 it was 42 kn. The lower load was chosen of 5 kn. For this purpose the test object was placed in a steel test frame installed on centre in a test press. The load was applied on centre onto the upper side of the cover via test stamp [diameter 250 mm] in accordance with Section of DIN EN 124: The load increase rate amounted to 5 to 10 kn/sec. After 10,000 load cycles the cover was subjected to a load test according to the 2/3 load testing requirement used to assess permanent deformation as described above. The results state a permanent setting of 0.80mm and no cracks appeared Deflection under load MPA Bremen conducted testing to determine the deflection under load. The deflection under load was measured at 1/3 of the test load given in Table 6 of DIN EN 124: for the respective class. It amounts to 42 kn for Class B 125. To determine the deflection under load each of the three test objects was placed in a steel test frame installed on centre in a test press. The load was applied on centre onto the upper side of the cover via test stamp [diameter 250 mm] in accordance with Section of DIN EN 124: A felt cushion was put between the test stamp and the cover surface to compensate for the surface structure. The deflection was measured at the bottom side of the cover. The measuring device was placed in the geometrical centre point of the clear width. Finally the aimed test load [42 kn] was applied with the load increase rate of 1 to 5 kn, the load application lasted for 30 s and then the deflection reading was taken. At that the deflection of the cover under load should make maximum one hundredth of the clear width. The limit value for the examined cover made 6.05 mm. Under the 42 kn load the average deflection under load was 3.8mm within the allowable 6.05 mm requirement for Class B 125 cover. After that the cover was subjected to a load test according to the 2/3 load testing requirement (83.3 kn) used to assess permanent deformation as described above. The results provided an average permanent setting of 0.77 mm well within the allowable 6.05 mm and there were no cracks detected Creep strength MPA Bremen conducted testing to determine creep strength. To examine the plastic cover in relation to creep strength it was loaded for (60 ±1) min with 1/3 of the test load given in Table 6 of DIN EN 124: for the respective class. It makes 42 kn for Class B 125. At that, the deflection was recorded at the beginning of the on-load period (after the complete load application), every 10 min during the on-load period, at the end of the on-load period, and 5 min after the termination of the loading. For the testing the test object was placed in a steel test frame installed on centre in a test press. The load was applied on centre onto the upper side of the cover via test stamp [diameter 250 mm] in accordance with Section of DIN EN 124: A felt cushion was put between the test stamp and the cover surface

17 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 17 to compensate for the surface structure. The deflection was measured at the bottom side of the cover. The measuring device was placed in the geometrical centre point of the clear width. The aimed test load [42 kn] was applied with the load increase rate of 1 to 5 kn, the load application lasted for 60 min. The results show an immediate deflection of 4.4mm and after 50minutes the deflection was 5.5 mm. After the load was removed the deflection was measured at 0.5 mm. After that the cover was subjected to a load test according to the 2/3 load testing requirement (83.3 kn) used to assess permanent deformation as described above. The permanent setting was 0.30 mm well within the allowable 6.05 mm and there were no cracks detected Shock resistance at lower temperatures (impact resistance) MPA Bremen conducted testing to determine shock resistance at lower temperatures. The test was carried out under consideration of the standard ISO 3127:1994. The aim of this test is to guarantee that no embrittelment occurs in the covers at lower temperatures. After the test described below the test object should not demonstrate any cracks or other damages that can adversely affect the functionality. During the test a free moving fall bolt having a hemisphere with a radius of 50 mm on the impact end and weight of (3.75 ±0.05) kg acts on centre point of the cover cooled to the test temperature. The height of fall was equal to 2.5 m. The temperature of (0 ± 3) C was chosen as the test temperature. For the purpose of testing the cover was placed in a steel test frame and cooled to the mentioned test temperature. The fall bolt impacted onto the centre of the cover s upper side. After the determination of the shock resistance the cover was subjected to 125 kn load testing with the aim to check whether the functionality of the cover was affected. As a result of the shock resistance test it can be stated that after the impact of the fall bolt at the test temperature of the cover some cracks occurred in the inner cover. Nevertheless, the functionality and the strength of the cover were not affected Assessment summary MPA Bremen assessment and summary included the following: The examination of the round covers for access gullies of Class B 125 consisting of a lid without ventilation and made of fibre-reinforced plastic [Polypropylene (PP) reinforced with glass fibres] drawing no: G1-P , and a frame of cast iron and concrete, drawing no.: G1-P , with clear opening of 605 mm by the company ACO Severin Ahlmann GmbH & Co. KG, has shown the following results: o The building principles according to Section 7 of DIN EN 124: was met. o The dimensions obtained on the cover meet the requirements for manhole tops of the standard DIN EN 124: o The test items have shown no changes after the test load was applied. o The requirements of standard DIN EN 124: to covers for manhole tops of Class B 125 were fulfilled. A copy of the full report is retained by WSAA.

18 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/ Class B125 load bearing capacity ACO has submitted several test reports to demonstrate load compliance with WSA PS-293 and they are described below and in Section 6.4 below pren 124-6: load tests ACO Polycrete Test Facility at Emu Plains, NSW is a NATA Accredited Laboratory No and ACO has submitted Test Report No SAKU EN124Class B125 dated 13 November This test was to demonstrate compliance with EN 124:1994 Clause Measurement of permanent set of the cover after application of 2/3 of the test load and Table 8 Clause Application of test load. Results for Class B125 Clause kn = 2/3 of the test load measurement of permanent set mm measured permanent set 6.00 mm maximum permanent set (CO/100). Clause kn application of the test load measurement of permanent set mm Permanent set (No limit). The SAKU plastic cover and DI frame satisfied the requirements specified in EN 124:1994 Clause 8.3 for Class B125. ACO has also submitted a test report from their Test Facility at Emu Plains to demonstrate compliance with the Class B load test requirements in AS 3996:2006 Table 4.2. The SAKU cover and frame comfortably passed these tests. ACO has submitted another report where they attempted to demonstrate compliance with AS 3996:2006 for Class C. While the SAKU cover passed the Class C deflection limit and permanent set limit the 150 kn Ultimate Limit State Design Load (ULSDL) failed after 3 seconds. ACO is therefore not claiming Class C category for the SAKU cover. 6.4 Compliance with WSA PS (a) Requirement Variations The SAKU cover has been tested and demonstrates as Group 2 (minimum Class B 125) Footways, pedestrian areas and property accessible to slow moving / parked vehicles (excluding commercial) plus water-tightness and gastightness in compliance with AS Class B Additional Classification Ref. WSA PS (a) LOAD CLASSIFICATION FOR PLACE OF INSTALLATION. ACO has submitted NATA Accredited Melbourne Testing Services Pty Ltd (MTS) Test Report No. MT-12/550 dated 12 October 2012 and titled Load Testing of Plastic Covers. MTS carried out two tests: o (a) 4)- Elevated temperature load test. (High temperature load test) The SAKU cover demonstrates as compliant with AS 3996, Clause load tests for a load applied for 4 hours after being conditioned for 4 50 C. This is to simulate a parked car on a hot day. o (a) 5)- Resistance to 24 hours loading test. (Sustained loading test) The SAKU cover demonstrates as compliant with AS 3996, Clause load

19 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 19 tests for a load applied for 24 hours at ambient temperature. This is to simulate a parked car overnight. Each ACO SAKU cover complied with the test loadings for Class B DN 600 clear opening demonstrating no structural failure and permanent set was 2.0mm for the 4 hour elevated temperature test and 3.6mm for the 24 hour test. Both results are within the 6.0 mm specified limit in AS 3996: Gas-tightness Ref. WSA PS (c) 2) ACO has provided an in-house test report dated 21/11/2013 from ACO in Budelsdorf, Germany where the SAKU cover has been tested and demonstrates as compliant for gas-tightness in accordance with Clause and appendix F of AS 3996:2006. The cover was sealed to the frame by the EPDM O ring seal and held in the frame using 2 bolts. The test pressure exceeded the AS 3996 requirement (600 pa compared to 500 pa) and was held for the required 3 minutes without drop in pressure. The SAKU Access cover and frame were deemed to have fulfilled the gastight test requirements for AS Water-tightness Ref. WSA PS (c) 3) ACO has provided an in-house test report dated 06/09/2013 from ACO in Budelsdorf, Germany where the SAKU cover has been tested and demonstrates as compliant for watertightness in accordance with Clause and Appendix E of AS 3996:2006. The cover assembly was stored at 60 C for 24 hours to simulate the cover on a hot day suddenly being subjected to cold water to test the thermal effects together with the AS 3996 requirement of 150 mm water level above the cover. The assembly was monitored for 10 minutes without leakage visible. The SAKU Access cover and frame were deemed to have fulfilled the watertightness test requirements for AS Skid resistance Ref: AS/NZS 4586 and HB 197 ACO has submitted a skid resistance test report No R4038 dated 24 September 2012 from NATA Accredited Laboratory No , Safe Environments Pty Ltd of Seven Hills NSW. The report is titled Slip Resistance Classification of New Pedestrian Surface Materials testing for compliance with AS/NZS 4586:2004 Appendix A (Wet pendulum Test). The report describes the SAKU cover and nominates the sample as unfixed and no cleaning. A rubber slider was used (Four S/TRL) and conditioned to Grade P 400 paper dry. The sample was subjected to 5 pendulum swings and the mean BPN was 39 and the surface was provided with a Class >35 wet rating.

20 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 20 TABLE 3 SUMMARY OF TEST RESULTS CHARACTERISTIC Requirement REPORT COMPLIANCE Deflection under load EN Clause ACO Lab Test Report No NATA Pass Additional Load testing requirement- WSA PS (a) 4) & 5) Gas-tightness test requirement - WSA PS (a) 2) Water-tightness test requirement - WSA PS (a) 3) Skid Resistance AS/NZS 4586:2004 Appendix A (Wet pendulum Test) MTS Test Report No. MT-12/550 ACO, Budelsdorf 21/11/2013 ACO, Budelsdorf 06/09/2013 Report No R4038 Safe Environments NATA No Pass Pass Pass Class >35 (wet rating) Pass Effect of heating Fatigue Resistance Test to DIN EN ISO 580:2005 Oven heated to 120ºC for 60 Min. Test load of 5 kn applied as per EN124:1994 for 10,000 cycles Report No dated 13/11/2012 from DAkks MPA Bremen ISO accredited No visual changes No visual changes Creep Strength Test load of 45 kn applied as per EN124:1994 for 60 Min. and measured every 10 min. No visual changes Shock Resistance (Impact test) Test at 3º C along the lines of ISO 3127: kg dropped from 2.5m using 50mm hemisphere striker. Similar to EN Cracks on inner cover. Passed subsequent load test. 7 FITTING INSTRUCTIONS, INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE GUIDE The Installation Guide for SAKU access cover can be found in Appendix F and the Assembly Drawing can be found in Appendix E. 8 PRODUCT MARKING The ACO SAKU access cover is permanently marked with the following: Manufacturer s name or registered Trademark. Year of manufacture or identifying serial number e.g. K The number of the complying standard e.g. AS 3996 and or pren Load classification e.g. Class B and or Class B125 Weight (mass) of the cover e.g. 8.3 kg The word SEWER or specific requirement of water agency.

21 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/ PACKAGING AND TRANSPORTATION The ACO SAKU Access cover is supplied assembled unless specified by the customer. The SAKU cover, frame and components are palletised, wrapped and strapped securely for delivery by vehicular transport. 10 PRODUCT WARRANTY The products are covered by the normal commercial and legal requirements of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth), which covers manufacture to the relevant Standard. ACO will provide a warranty based on site specifics on request. Refer to ACO for their standard terms and conditions for sale. 11 WATER AGENCY EXPERIENCE WITH THE PRODUCT OR FIELD TESTING REPORT Sydney Water has approved the SAKU access cover and some 200 have been installed in greenfield works. Sydney Water has provided the field report shown in Appendix D. 12 DISCUSSION The following focusses on durability and is drawn from pren124-6:2014 Clause 4 which nominates products of known and stable performance for defined use with respect to their established durability for which experience has been accumulated over a long period of time. Clause 4 proposes the polypropylene materials specified and the prescribed framework of requirements and test methods for the mandated performance characteristics according to the design and performance requirements in Clause 5 will reflect the durability of access covers during an economically reasonable working life when installed according to their intended use. Consequently there is no need for a further test method for the specific assessment of durability. Durability of load bearing capacity against mechanical failure is ensured by meeting the requirements of PrEN 124-1, 8.2 and 8.3, EN 124-6, 4.1, 4.3, 5.2.2, 5.2.3, The proportion between test load and maximum load to be expected in service and in conjunction with the stable behavior of the polypropylene material specified covers all effects which may influence the durability of the load bearing capacity. Durability of securing of covers in the frame against unintended lifting is ensured by using materials with proven resistance against corrosion in compliance with 4.4. Durability of skid resistance against loss of grip is ensured by meeting the requirements of EN 124-1, 7.4, in conjunction with the stable resistance of the material itself against loss of grip. 13 OUTCOMES OF EXPERT PANEL PRODUCT REVIEW The following questions have been raised by Mohamed Yoosuf at City West Water in Melbourne in his review of the ACO SAKU access cover: Q 1. What is the anticipated service life of Saku cover. The AS 3996 accredited Class B and D sewer access covers have a life expectancy over 100 years? ACO answer: There is no way we know that we could calculate life expectancy from the durability requirements specified in PrEN which focuses on the product type, material type & application. The standard does not prescribe a life expectancy. Unlike Iron covers, plastic covers are a relatively new product which is why we encourage tight compliance to the standard.

22 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 22 Q 2. What kinds of failures are anticipated from this cover (deterioration of plastic cover due to prolong exposure to direct sunlight, cracks etc.)? ACO answer: This depends entirely on the application. Over many years, we would expect some (aesthetic) deterioration in the material but not its strength i.e. the surface could show aging by perhaps turning grey colour or some delamination. As the material is UV stabilised, this should not occur for a long time. Q 3. In absence of a rigid substructure underneath the SAKU thermoplastic cover, how can a potential/catastrophic failure be avoided in case the plastic cover deteriorate over time due to UV exposure? ACO answer: The load bearing structure of SAKU will never be exposed to direct sunlight. Furthermore the structure is heavily ribbed, so that a catastrophic failure due to UV radiation is unlikely. Q 4. How does the locking mechanism work without a substructure, how is it locked with the frame? ACO answer: No different to conventional cast iron covers. SS bolts are inserted into the bolt-holes and screwed into the frame. Q 5. What are the advantages of the SAKU access cover? ACO answer: Light weight for ease of handling, Durable, does not deteriorate in a sewer (hydrogen sulphide) environment, Resistant to seaside corrosion (sea spray, salt), Resistant to a wide range of chemicals, no oxidation, Resistant to aggressive chemical environments, Does not require a steel ribbing substructure, No scrap value unlikely to be stolen. 14 LIFE EXPECTANCY pren includes in Appendix ZA 2.2 Declaration of performance (DoP) and ACO advise that this declaration will be available from ACO (Germany) after EN is published. The life expectancy of the ACO SAKU thermoplastic access cover and frame is indeterminate and reference to pren124-6:2014 indicates UV stability (artificial weathering resistance is performance based with prescriptive criteria). Life Expectancy will depend on site specifics. ACO will provide a recommendation and/or warranty on request. The ACO recommendation will include the seal and is contingent on correct installation and proper specification in the correct application. Over many years, ACO would expect some (aesthetic) deterioration in the material but not its strength i.e. the surface could show aging by perhaps turning grey colour or some delamination. As the material is UV stabilized, this should not occur for a long time. 15 FUTURE WORKS ISO Type 5 product certification is not available at this time due to there being no particular published standard. From the date of first publication of EN 124-6, ACO Polycrete shall be allowed 12 months to achieve ISO Type 5 product certification. 16 REPORT RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that WSAA members and associates, subject to any specific requirements, conditionally accept/authorise the ACO SAKU DN 600 Thermoplastic access cover and DI frame as listed in Section 4 "Scope of Appraisal, on the

23 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 23 understanding that this product is innovative and yet to be fully proven as fit for purpose. Installation should be relevant to systems as provided in pipeline design, installation, acceptance testing and commissioning in accordance with applicable WSAA Codes and the manufacturer s requirements where specified. 17 DISCLAIMER This Product Appraisal Report (Report) is issued by the Water Services Association of Australia Limited on the understanding that: This Report applies to the product(s) as submitted. Any changes to the product(s) either minor or major shall void this Report. To maintain the recommendations of this Report any such changes shall be detailed and notified to the Product Appraisal Manager for consideration and review of the Report and appropriate action. Appraisals and their recommendations will be the subject of continuous review dependent upon the satisfactory performance of products. WSAA reserves the right to undertake random audits of product manufacture and installation. Where products fail to maintain appraised performance requirements the appraisal and its recommendations may be modified and reissued. Appraisal reports will be reviewed and reissued at regular intervals not exceeding five (5) years. The following information explains a number of very important limits on your ability to rely on the information in this Report. Please read it carefully and take it into account when considering the contents of this Report. Any enquiries regarding this report should be directed to the Program Manager, Carl Radford, Phone: [email protected] Issue of Report This Report has been published and/or prepared by the Water Services Association of Australia Limited and nominated Project Manager and peer group of technical specialists (the Publishers). The Report has been prepared for use within Australia only by technical specialists that have expertise in the function of products such as those appraised in the Report (the Recipients). By accepting this Report, the Recipient acknowledges and represents to the Publisher(s) and each person involved in the preparation of the Report that the Recipient has understood and accepted the terms of this Disclaimer Limits on Reliance on Information and Recommendations Disclaimer of liability Neither the Publisher(s) nor any person involved in the preparation of the Report accept(s) any liability for any loss or damage suffered by any person however caused (including negligence or the omission by any person to do anything) relating in any way to the Report or the product appraisal criteria underlying it. This includes (without limitation) any liability for any recommendation or information in the Report or any errors or omissions Need for independent assessment The information and any recommendation contained (expressly or by implication) in this Report are provided in good faith. However, you should treat the information as indicative only. You should not rely on that information or any such recommendation except to the extent that you reach an agreement to the contrary with the Publisher(s). This Report does not contain all information that a person might require for the purposes of assessing any product discussed or appraised within it (Product). The product appraisal criteria used in preparing this Report may not address all relevant aspects of the Product.

24 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 24 Recipients should seek independent evidence of any matter which is material to their decisions in connection with an assessment of the Product and consult their own advisers for any technical information required. Any decision to use the Product should take into account the reliability of that independent evidence obtained by the Recipient regarding the Product. Recipients should also independently verify and assess the appropriateness of any recommendation in the Report, especially given that any recommendation will not take into account a Recipient s particular needs or circumstances. WSAA has not evaluated the extent of the product liability and professional indemnify insurance that the provider of the product maintains. Recipients should ensure that they evaluate the allocation of liability for product defects and any professional advice obtained in relation to the product or its specification including the requirements for product liability and professional indemnity insurance No Updating Neither the Publisher(s) nor any person involved in the preparation of this Report [has] [have] any obligation to notify you of any change in the information contained in this Report or of any new information concerning the Publisher(s) or the Product or any other matter No Warranty The Publisher(s) do[es] not, in any way, warrant that steps have been taken to verify or audit the accuracy or completeness of the information in this Report, or the accuracy, completeness or reasonableness of any recommendation in this Report.

25 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 25 APPENDIX A - QUALITY CERTIFICATIONS Copies of the following Quality Certification Certificates are available for downloading from the WSAA Members Only IPAM Portal Website. TABLE A1 ACO POLYCRETE PTY LTD MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Quality Systems Standard ISO 9001:2008 Certification licence no. Certifying agency QEC1883 SAI GLOBAL First date of certification 6 May 1996 Current date of certification 9 May 2014 Expiry date of certification 5 May 2017 TABLE A2 ACO Severin Ahlmann GmbH & Co. KG MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Quality Systems Standard ISO 9001:2008 Certification licence no Certifying agency First date of certification KIWA International NA Current date of certification 03/04/2014 Expiry date of certification 17/03/2017 TABLE A3 Burener Maschinenfabrik GmbH MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Quality Systems Standard ISO 9001:2008 Certification licence no. Certifying agency First date of certification QM08 DQS NA Current date of certification 24/02/2013 Expiry date of certification 23/02/2016 TABLE A4 Weifang Weikai Casting Co. Ltd MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Quality Systems Standard ISO 9001:2008 Certification licence no. Certifying agency CN04/11010 SGS First date of certification 21 May 2004 Current date of certification 19 May 2013 Expiry date of certification 19 May 2016

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30 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 30 APPENDIX B - WSA PRODUCT SPECIFICATION

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32 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 32 APPENDIX C - ACO POLYCRETE PTY LTD - SUPPLIER CONTACTS New South Wales (head office) Bathurst Road, Emu Plains 2750 Phone: Fax: [email protected] Victoria 9 Overseas Drive, Noble Park 3174 Phone: Fax: [email protected] Queensland 467 Tufnell Road, Banyo 4014 Phone: Fax: [email protected] South Australia Unit 14, Churchill Road North, Dry Creek 5094 Phone: Fax: [email protected] Western Australia Sorbonne Crescent, Canning Vale 6155 Phone: Fax: [email protected] Tasmania 9 Overseas Drive, Noble Park 3174 Phone: Fax: [email protected] Northern Territory Unit 14, Churchill Road North, Dry Creek 5094 Phone: Fax: [email protected]

33 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 33 APPENDIX D FIELD REPORT ACO SAKU ACCESS COVER - PA 13/24 SYDNEY WATER FIELD REPORT Date(s) of installation. Approx. 200 PVC ACO manhole covers and frames were installed on existing vacuum sewage pots in Kurnell, Bonnet Bay, Woronora and Sylvania from March 2014 to July Sydney Water s contractor Interflow installed the lightweight covers to reduce the manual handling hazard associated with existing much heavier concrete covers. Condition of product at delivery with photos showing packaging, support timbers, strapping. Covers are delivered in lots of 18 and frames in lots of 21. These are placed on timber pallets and strapped in plastic. See photos below. Sydney Water warehouse staff confirmed all items delivered are in good condition. Frames Covers Surface damage. Sydney Water warehouse staff and Interflow confirm no surface damage observed on any covers received. Product marking details. See photo of cover taken at Bridges Rd Kurnell.

34 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 34 Describe jointing type or seal. Mastic is placed between pot & riser and lid/frame & riser. Approximately 4.5m of mastic is required for each manhole cover installation (2.2m x 2 m = 4.4m). Pot Frame Riser Concrete The installation details. 1. Mastic placed around pot. 2. PVC riser placed on pot. 3. Mastic placed around riser. 4. Metal frame placed on riser. 5. Frame anchored into pot with 4 dynabolts. Prefabricated rings on frame. 6. Approximately 3 x 20kg concrete bags used to place concrete around perimeter of cover. The type of ground and excavation conditions - per WSA-02/3 Class B cover suitable only in non-trafficable areas such as gardens. Excavation not required for installation. Any ground conditions suitable. Installation design; - grades, bedding and embedment materials and compaction method. Mastic, bolts and concrete used for installation. Covers able to be installed on grade provided manhole structure is on grade. Sloped risers are available, however these were not required for this project. Signs of failure or concern for the installation. Interflow mentioned no concerns of failure during installation. Comment on ease of cover removal and replacement. Two bolts to be unscrewed and screwed for cover removal and replacement. Lifting lugs on cover assist with cover removal, however not necessary due to light weight of cover. Less than a minute required for cover removal and replacement.

35 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 35 Lifting Lugs What was learned about the product that could make it better or worse than other brands. o Metal frame more sturdy than other light weight covers which are supplied with plastic frame. o Thread for bolts machine tapped and integrated within cover, unlike other covers which have metal plate welded on back of cover which isn t as reliable. o Threads in frame are ductile iron, unlike other covers which have stainless steel threads which are likely to fail due to being a softer metal. (Comment) o Two bolts used to secure cover, unlike other covers which have only one bolt. o Improvement opportunity would be to include bolts and mastic with product when delivered and to include equal number of frames and covers in packaging. Summary and/or comments. o Heat and fire resistance concerns when installed in bush fire prone areas. Melted covers could also present safety concerns especially if installed in gravity sewer networks.

36 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 36 APPENDIX E PRODUCT DRAWINGS

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38 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 38 APPENDIX F INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS

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41 WSAA Product Appraisal 13/24 41 Melbourne Office Level 8, 401 Docklands Drive Docklands VIC 3008 Phone: (03) Fax: (03) Sydney Office Level 11, 39 Martin Place Sydney NSW 2000 GPO Box 915 Sydney NSW 2001 Phone: (02) Fax: (