A channel drain is a linear drainage gutter set into the paving at ground level to collect surface water and carry it away in a controlled way. Unlike a point gully, a channel drain collects water along its entire length — which is why it is also called linear drainage.
Build-up
A channel drain usually consists of a channel made of plastic, concrete or polymer concrete, topped with a grating of cast iron, steel or plastic. The grating holds back dirt and coarse material and is walkable or drivable. The channel runs to a fall towards a connection to the sewer or an infiltration facility.
Application
Channel drains are used where a lot of water has to be removed quickly:
- Driveways and garages — to prevent rainwater from running into the garage or house
- Terraces and paving — at the connection to the facade, replacing a fall to a single point
- Thresholds and entrances — a channel drain in front of the door keeps the threshold dry
- Industrial floors and wash bays — for the rapid removal of large volumes of water
Points of attention
- Choose the load class (pedestrians, cars, trucks) to suit the use
- Provide enough fall in the channel and a good connection to the outlet
- A silt trap makes maintenance easier
Related Terms
- Drainage
- Rainwater drainage
- Paving pattern
- Gully
- Infiltration
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