Access Chambers (Manholes)
Access chambers, maintenance shafts and manholes refer to the same product group: vertical shafts that connect pipelines to the surface. Humes uses the term access chambers for systems that allow worker entry, and maintenance shafts for non-entry systems.
Humes manufactures complete access chamber structures to suit local codes, practices and site conditions. Precast concrete access chambers are suitable for depths of up to 6m in accordance with AS 4198-1994 Precast Concrete Access Chambers for Sewerage Applications.
Humes access chamber systems can be used for:
- New residential and commercial developments
- Connections to existing pipelines
- Replacement of existing access chambers
- Vacuum collection and isolation chambers
- Air valve and scour pits
- Overflow and discharge chambers
System components include precast bases, shafts, taper or squat tops, converter slabs, make-up rings, covers and surrounds, with a range of joint types available to meet local requirements.
Cored penetrations and precast benching can be formed at any angle, allowing the system to accommodate all inlet configurations. The Humes Supabowl® conical precast base features an inverted cone profile that delivers hydraulic efficiency comparable to traditional channel-benched bases, with improved self-cleansing performance under surcharge conditions. This design removes the need for separate benching and significantly improves supply lead times.
