Neenah Foundry engineers and manufactures a full line of cast-iron access hatches for a variety of applications. These access hatches are available in a wide range of sizes and shapes to fit unique specifications.
Our heavy-duty access hatches are fully compliant with AASHTO M306, ASTM A48, and ASTM A536 standards. We engineer our products for safety, ease of access, and protection of underground infrastructure.
Given the weight of these products, it’s critical to ensure that workers are protected and can handle components with ease. That’s why we’re focused on continually making ergonomic improvements.
Our spring-assisted hatch products eliminate heavy lifting, thereby making the performance of maintenance tasks much easier and, of course, keeping workers safe.
What Are Access Hatches?
Access hatches provide entry to vaults, infrastructure systems, and underground utilities. Also known as access covers, our hatches include a frame and cover system designed to provide surface-level entry.
Neenah Foundry specializes in manufacturing ergonomic hatches made from cast iron, which provides unmatched durability. Our team also has expertise in engineering spring-assisted hatches for regular use and safe entry to underground assets.
We offer access hatch covers in a number of load ratings, ranging from light-duty to airport-rated. They’re also available in multiple shapes, including round, rectangular, and square.
Additionally, we can provide access-control solutions to accommodate a diverse array of material and configurational needs. Our hatches allow municipalities to control who can reach critical infrastructure.
What Are Access Hatches Used For?
Customers rely on Neenah Foundry access-control hatches for the following applications:
- Water and wastewater vaults
- Utility vaults (electric, lighting, telecom, gas, fiber, etc.)
- Water treatment facilities
- Inspection chambers
- Transportation and roadway infrastructure
- Airports and ports
- Industrial and commercial facilities that need easy access to below-ground systems
Our access hatches enable routine maintenance and provide safe, reliable surface-level access to underground infrastructure.
Key Features and Design Options
Neenah Foundry serves a broad range of customers by offering the following features and design options:
Performance and Structural Features
Our access hatches are available in multiple load ratings, including light-duty, traffic-rated (H20 & H25), and airport-rated. Optional structural features include:
- Anti-skid/traction surfaces
- Flush-mount design
- Hinged or spring-assisted configurations
Choose the combination of features that will provide the best reliability and performance for your intended application.
Safety and Access-Control Features
Our access hatches incorporate several features designed to promote safety and accessibility, including:
- Locking mechanisms or bolt-down systems
- Ergonomic design with spring-assist to reduce lifting weight
- Safety grates for fall through protection
- Slip-resistant finishes
Our hatches are safe for use in a variety of industrial and public settings.
Material and Customization Options
Precision built access hatches designed for dependable, long-term use. Our material and customization options include:
- Cast iron for maximum durability and corrosion resistance to withstand demanding conditions.
- Logo and branding options
- Size variations for different pit structures
We can also add utility and vault ID numbers for easy identification. Simply contact our sales team and let us handle the rest.
Why Choose Neenah Foundry for Access Hatches?
Customers choose Neenah Foundry to meet their access hatches need because of distinctions like the following:
- Proven manufacturing reliability
- Industry reputation
- Engineering expertise
- Compliance with municipal/utility standards
- Extensive product catalog
Neenah Foundry is a strong fit for DOT, airport, ports, municipal, utility, and industrial customers. If you can’t find the solution you need, we can supply a custom option.
Product Highlights
Here’s an overview of some of our most popular types of hatches:
Spring-Assisted Cast-Iron Hatches
Spring-assisted hatches decrease the amount of weight that workers have to lift, reducing strain and effort. They’re a great option when you need the hatch to close behind you but also want to protect workers from overuse injuries.
Hinged Access Cast-Iron Hatches
Hinged access hatches are ideal for areas that require frequent access. The controlled lift mechanisms prevent the hatches from being opened too far.
Non-Hinged Access Hatches
Non-hinged access hatches are ideal for lighter duty applications or less frequent entry is required.
Access Hatches FAQs
What Materials Are Access Hatches Made From?
Our hatches are primarily made of cast iron. However, we also offer custom steel or aluminum hatches upon request. Whatever the need, we make it happen for our customers so they can get the job done.
How Do I Choose the Right Load Rating?
If you have specific questions about load rating, contact our team directly for guidance. We’ll gladly help you select the appropriate rating based on your intended use case and load demands.
Can Access Hatches Be Customized?
Yes, we can customize your hatches with utility or vault ID numbers. Customization helps workers readily identify access points and make sure they’re entering the right area.
Are Access Hatches Safe for Pedestrian Areas?
Our heavy-duty hatches are safe for pedestrian areas. They’ll easily support the weight of foot traffic and are guaranteed to hold up to repeated use.
Do Access Hatches Require Maintenance?
Access hatches are low maintenance. You may need to inspect and lubricate springs or hinges. If you have specific maintenance questions related to the products you’re ordering, connect with our team.
What Are the Common Uses for an Access Hatch?
Access hatches are generally used to provide access to underground utilities and vaults. Neenah Foundry offers hatches in round, square, and rectangular configurations for reliable access.
Explore Access Hatches From Neenah Foundry
Neenah Foundry is here to deliver the ideal solutions for your intended application. Browse our full catalog of hatches or talk to our team about your custom access hatch needs.