Steel Grating for Power Plants and Energy Projects
Power plants combine every hard condition for grating in one site: high temperatures, vibration from turbines, cable trenches full of heat, and areas that must be screened against intrusion. Window grating and cable trench covers alone can account for several hundred square metres on a single unit.
Where grating goes in a power plant
Boiler and turbine hall platforms, cable trench covers, transformer bund covers, air intake and window screens, switchgear enclosures and cooling tower walkways. Cable trench covers are normally hinged and rated for foot traffic only - the mistake is letting a pallet truck run over them, which bends the panels and breaks the tram rails underneath.
Window and air intake grating is specified for open area rather than load: a 60-70 percent open screen gives airflow while keeping out birds, debris and hands.
Temperature and vibration
Near boilers and steam lines, panels are supplied without organic coatings and with slotted fixings so thermal expansion does not shear the bolts. On turbine hall platforms, panels are clipped at four corners and cross-braced to stop the rattle that develops when a panel is only held at two points.
Typical specifications
| Area | Product | Bearing bar | Finish | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boiler platform | Welded grating | 30x5 - 40x5 | HDG | Slotted fixings for expansion |
| Cable trench cover | Hinged cover | 25x3 - 30x5 | HDG | Foot traffic only |
| Window / air intake | Grating screen | 20x3 / 25x3 | Mill / HDG | 60-70% open area |
| Switchgear screen | Fence panel | 30x5 | HDG | Non-climbable aperture |
Related products and applications
Frequently asked questions
What is window grating used for?
It covers window and air intake openings on plant buildings, substations and plant rooms. The open pattern lets air through while stopping birds, thrown objects and intrusion, and it is much cheaper than a glazed screen.
Can grating be used over cable trenches?
Yes, with hinged covers rated for foot traffic. Heavy vehicle traffic over a cable trench needs a concrete or steel plate deck instead, because a bent cover damages the cables below.
Which finish suits a coastal power plant?
Hot dip galvanized with a 85 micron coating, or stainless 316 for splash zones. Aluminum is used for screens where weight matters and there is no abrasion.
Not sure which profile suits your site? Send the span, load and environment to our engineers and we will return a specification with drawings within one working day. Contact us or see the full product range.