Althon has introduced a range of Glass Reinforced Cement (GRC) headwalls with spigot mounted flap valves, providing a cost-effective solution for drainage outlets where erosion protection and backflow prevention are important considerations.

Designed for smaller pipe outlets, the new headwall and non-return valve combinations offer a practical option for civil engineering, construction and water management projects. By combining a GRC headwall with a suitable flap valve, the system helps protect the point of discharge while reducing the risk of water flowing back through the drainage pipeline during storm events.

Protecting Drainage Outlets from Erosion

Headwalls form an important part of drainage infrastructure, particularly where pipes discharge into ponds, ditches and other open watercourses. Their primary purpose is to provide a stable structure around the pipe outlet and help minimise erosion caused by flowing water.

Without suitable protection, repeated water discharge can gradually affect the surrounding ground, potentially undermining the pipe outlet and creating maintenance problems.

Althon's GRC headwalls provide a durable and practical solution for these applications, helping to protect the outlet while providing a defined connection between the drainage pipework and the receiving watercourse.

Spigot Mounted Flap Valves for Backflow Prevention

A key feature of the new range is the inclusion of spigot mounted flap valves, which act as non-return valves within the drainage system.

Under normal discharge conditions, the flap valve opens to allow water to leave the pipe. When water levels rise outside the outlet, such as during a storm or flooding event, the valve closes to help prevent water from flowing back up the pipeline.

This makes the combination particularly useful where drainage outlets discharge into watercourses that may experience changing water levels.

By incorporating backflow protection at the discharge point, the system can help reduce the risk of unwanted reverse flows affecting the drainage network.

Flexible Pipe Connections with Knockout Webs

Althon's GRC headwalls feature knockout webs designed to accommodate different pipe diameters. This allows the appropriate opening to be formed to suit the connecting drainage pipework.

The non-return valves supplied with the headwalls are designed to push-fit into the internal diameter of the connecting pipe. Each valve is supplied with a suitable seal to secure it within the pipework.

This arrangement provides a straightforward connection method and helps simplify the installation process for contractors working on drainage schemes.

Suitable for Smaller Drainage Pipe Outlets

The Althon GRC headwall range is designed for smaller pipe outlets, with products suitable for pipe diameters between 80mm and 300mm.

The range includes small and large one-piece GRC headwalls, with spigot mounted flap valve combinations available in 100mm, 150mm, 225mm and 300mm sizes.

Manufactured from Glass Reinforced Cement, the headwalls offer a lightweight alternative to larger conventional concrete structures. This can be particularly beneficial where site access, handling and installation requirements need to be considered.

The range is well suited to drainage applications involving ponds, ditches and smaller watercourses where an appropriately sized headwall is required.

Practical Benefits for Contractors and Engineers

For civil engineering contractors, drainage designers and developers, selecting the correct headwall and backflow prevention system is an important part of drainage planning.

Combining the headwall and flap valve within a coordinated product range provides a convenient specification option, helping project teams identify compatible components for the intended pipe size.

The knockout web design also offers flexibility, while the push-fit valve connection provides a practical method of securing the non-return valve within the drainage outlet.

Conclusion

Althon's GRC headwalls with spigot mounted flap valves offer a practical solution for smaller drainage outlets requiring both erosion protection and backflow prevention.

With flexible knockout openings, push-fit non-return valves and options for pipe diameters up to 300mm, the range provides contractors and engineers with a cost-effective approach to managing drainage discharge points.

For further information, including product options and technical documentation, visit Althon's GRC headwall range or contact the company's technical team on 01603 488700.