Landscape Season is here! View our Virtual & Urban Landscape tools.
Visit Polycon Water Management here.
Water management has become a critical concern for urban planners, civil engineers, and landscape architects. With increasing urbanisation, efficient drainage systems are essential to prevent water accumulation, protect infrastructure, and manage surface water runoff in pedestrian areas, highways, industrial sites, and airports. One product that stands out in the modern drainage industry is the Lite Prem Channel Drainage System, designed and manufactured by Polycon.
This guide will explore everything about the Lite Prem drainage channel system: its uses, features, material benefits, and applications. Whether you are a developer, civil engineer, or someone involved in infrastructure, this article will provide you with the comprehensive knowledge you need to understand why the Lite Prem system is a leading choice for drainage solutions.
The Lite Prem drainage channel is an advanced water management system designed to channel surface water away from areas prone to water pooling. It is manufactured from High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), a material known for its strength, chemical resistance, and durability. This makes the Lite Prem system a reliable solution for environments exposed to harsh chemicals or corrosive substances, such as industrial zones or airports.
With customisable depth options ranging from 195mm to 550mm, the Lite Prem channel can handle various load classes, from A15 (1.5 tonnes) to F900, when equipped with a stainless-steel edge rail. These features make it versatile enough to be used across various applications, from landscaping and pedestrian areas to highways and airports.
HDPE is known for its long-lasting durability. Unlike traditional materials such as concrete or steel, HDPE does not corrode, rust, or degrade when exposed to harsh weather, chemicals, or pollutants. The flexibility of HDPE also plays a significant role in how this system adapts to shifting terrains or ground movement, which can often lead to the failure of rigid systems like concrete drainage channels. Its flexible nature ensures minimal cracking and structural failure, allowing for a longer service life with less need for maintenance or repair.
Urban environments often contain pollutants such as oils, greases, and various chemicals that can degrade drainage materials over time. HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) has exceptional resistance to a wide range of chemicals, ensuring that the system can handle contaminated water without experiencing significant damage. This property is especially beneficial in areas where pollutants are common, as it provides long-lasting durability compared to traditional materials.
Lightweight and Easy Installation
HDPE drainage channels, such as those in the Lite Prem range, are significantly lighter than traditional concrete or metal alternatives. This applies to all the widths available, including 150, 200, 300, 400, and 500 mm. The lightweight nature of these channels simplifies transportation and installation across the entire range, reducing both time and labour costs. Whether you’re working on a smaller project with 150 mm channels or a larger one requiring the 500 mm option, contractors can install any size more efficiently, without the need for heavy machinery. This makes Lite Prem a cost-effective solution, adaptable to projects of all sizes.
The smooth interior of the Lite Prem channel prevents water from pooling inside the channel. This feature enhances the overall efficiency of the system, as it allows for fast water flow, reducing the risk of blockages. The waterproof surface also reduces the need for frequent maintenance, further minimizing long-term operational costs.
The Lite Prem drainage channel is available in various widths—150 mm, 200 mm, 300 mm, 400 mm, and 500 mm—which allows for a tailored approach to different project needs:
The Lite Prem drainage system can be used in a variety of settings, ensuring effective water drainage and helping to protect both infrastructure and pedestrian areas. Below are some of the primary applications:
In parks, gardens, and public outdoor spaces, managing water flow is essential for both functionality and aesthetic purposes. The Lite Prem system offers a discreet yet effective drainage solution for these environments. Its customisable depth allows landscape architects to integrate it seamlessly into the design without disrupting the visual appeal of the area. Additionally, the A15 load class capacity makes it suitable for pedestrian-heavy areas, ensuring safety while maintaining a natural landscape.
In pedestrian walkways or shopping centres, effective water drainage is crucial to prevent water from pooling, which can lead to accidents or cause long-term damage to the pavement. The Lite Prem drainage channel, especially when installed with a composite slotted grating, provides an efficient solution. Its smooth surface prevents water accumulation, keeping pathways dry and safe. This system also requires minimal maintenance, which is ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic.
The Lite Prem drainage channel system comes with a variety of accessories designed to enhance performance and offer greater flexibility for complex layouts. Below are some of the key accessories:
End caps are crucial for sealing the channel at the end of a drainage run. This ensures that water is directed through the proper outlets, preventing leaks or seepage. Vertical outlets can also be integrated, allowing the system to connect seamlessly to underground drainage networks.
2. Corner Units
For complex drainage layouts that require changes in direction, corner units offer an efficient solution. These components ensure the integrity of the water flow is maintained, even when the drainage channel has to navigate around corners or obstacles.
3. Stainless Steel Edge Rail
The Lite Prem drainage channel can be equipped with a stainless steel edge rail, which significantly enhances both the durability and load-bearing strength of the system. By reinforcing the channel edges, the stainless steel rail protects against wear and tear from frequent use, making it ideal for environments with increased traffic demands. This added strength not only extends the life of the drainage system but also provides greater stability under pressure, reducing the risk of deformation or damage over time.
Proper installation of the Lite Prem drainage system is essential to ensure long-term performance and durability. Below are some of the general installation guidelines:
Before installing the Lite Prem drainage channel, it’s important to ensure the ground conditions are suitable. Any unstable or weak soil should be reinforced before installation begins.
Concrete haunching is critical for ensuring that the channel remains stable under load. The depth and thickness of the concrete surround will vary depending on the load class being installed. For lighter pedestrian areas, a 100mm concrete surround is recommended.
If the Lite Prem system is installed in an area exposed to heavy footfall or rainfall, it is important to ensure the grating is securely fixed using the appropriate side clamps. These clamps help to lock the grating into place, ensuring it remains stable under high-pressure loads.
The Lite Prem drainage system not only excels in performance but also contributes positively to environmental sustainability. HDPE is a recyclable material, which means that at the end of its long service life, the channel can be recycled rather than discarded, reducing its environmental footprint.
Additionally, by preventing water pooling and reducing the risk of flooding, the Lite Prem system helps mitigate the environmental impact of urban development. Effective drainage systems play a critical role in managing stormwater runoff, preventing water from overwhelming municipal drainage systems, and minimising soil erosion.
The Lite Prem drainage channel is manufactured in compliance with industry standards and is fully ISO 9001:2000 certified. It is also CE-certified under EN 1433, a standard that governs the performance requirements for linear drainage systems in areas exposed to pedestrian and vehicular traffic. These certifications ensure that the Lite Prem system meets stringent quality and performance criteria, giving engineers and architects confidence in its reliability.
The Lite Prem drainage channel is a comprehensive and versatile solution for managing surface water in a wide range of environments. Its use of HDPE, customizable load classes, and versatile depth options make it ideal for applications as diverse as landscaping, pedestrian zones, highways, and industrial areas. With a variety of accessories and customization options, the Lite Prem system can be tailored to meet the specific needs of any project, ensuring efficient water management and long-term durability.
Our Brands
