Andrew Mentis produces a range of corrosion-resistant floor grating as well as handrailing systems in galvanised, 304 stainless steel and 3CR12 options that are ideally suited to the extreme conditions found in wastewater treatment plants.

Wastewater traveling through sewer lines can become anaerobic or septic as a result of the metabolic processes of microbes commonly found in the wastewater. Specific sulphate-reducing bacteria thrive in these conditions and generate hydrogen sulphide (H2S) as a byproduct of their respiration.

H2S has a low solubility in wastewater and when it escapes from the wastewater and moves into the air, it is easily recognised by its characteristic offensive, rotten egg odour. It can also be responsible for severe corrosion problems and toxic conditions within wastewater conveyance and treatment facilities.

Andrew Mentis produces a range of corrosion-resistant floor grating as well as handrailing systems in galvanised, 304 stainless steel and 3CR12 options that are ideally suited to the extreme conditions found in wastewater treatment plants.

This Mentis grating is engineered to suit situations where strength to weight ratio is important, such as wastewater treatment plants, while the Mentis handrailing product is designed for optimum safety.

Lance Quinlan, national technical sales consultant at Andrew Mentis explains that the water and wastewater industry often creates a slippery environment for operators and technicians. “Vapours, water and chemicals create slick underfoot and handhold conditions near large machinery and tanks,” he says.

“Safety is paramount in this type of environment. Weakened handrailing and floor grating, caused by corrosion and damp, can result in slips, trips or falls,” Quinlan says. “In addition, replacing broken or corroded handrailing or floor grating results in unnecessary downtime which can impact negatively on productivity.”

Galvanising or using stainless in a wastewater treatment plant is not only a safe and cost effective option, but it does not compromise the aesthetics of the environment.

Mentis’ Rectagrid RS40 40/40 floor grating is manufactured using a pressure locking system pioneered by the company. The locking characteristics guarantee the structural integrity of the product and further enhance its integrity in a corrosive environment.

The transversals on the floor grating are positively and permanently locked to the bearer bars and the locking method at the intersections is designed to use the full depth of the bearer bar when calculating loads. This attention to detail ensures that the load bearing capacity is top of mind when design and manufacturing is undertaken.

Mentis stainless steel tubular handrailing is reputed for its corrosion and stain resistance qualities. The stanchion base plates are designed to allow moisture to drain from the stanchion itself, adding further credence to its corrosion-resistant benefits. These handrails are not only functional, but also resilient and durable.

The tubular handrailing system is complemented by a range of standard angles and matching accessories, with different bends and end closers adding to the versatility of the product. The stanchions are 42.9 mm diameter by 2.5 mm wall thickness specifications, and are also available in 3CR12, 304 and 316 stainless steel polished to a satin finish.