Project Challenges
The project required a trench cover solution capable of meeting the operational demands of a world-class indoor sports venue, while ensuring safe installation and long-term reliability. Key requirements included:
- Delivering a high-performance solution suitable for a precision-engineered indoor environment
- Managing installation within restricted internal access areas
- Coordinating works alongside multiple specialist contractors within a tightly controlled programme
- Providing durable, load-bearing access covers for long-term operational safety
- Supporting the project’s sustainability objectives through recyclable, low-carbon materials
Composite Trench Cover Solution
Following technical evaluation, Invicta ANARA selected d² Dura Slab 45 from Dura Composites, supported by d² Dura Profile C-Channel and d² Dura Profile I-Beam, to create a robust trench cover system for internal service routes across the velodrome.
The Dura Composites and Invicta ANARA teams worked closely with stakeholders throughout the concept and design stages, providing technical guidance and site support to ensure the solution met the project’s performance requirements.
Part of Dura’s innovative d² low embodied carbon composite range, d² Dura Slab 45 provides a strong, load-bearing and fully recyclable alternative to traditional trench cover systems. The closed-slab, interlocking GRP panels were supplied with secure fixings to provide safe and reliable access to below-ground services.
Engineered for Performance and Ease of Installation
The lightweight design of d² Dura Slab 45 helped simplify installation within confined internal areas, reducing manual handling requirements and eliminating the need for heavy lifting equipment in many locations. Manufactured from high-performance pultruded GRP, the system offers:
- High strength-to-weight performance
- Excellent durability and corrosion resistance
- Long design life with minimal maintenance requirements
- Safe, secure access to services
- Consistent performance in demanding environments
These benefits supported efficient project delivery while helping maintain site safety and programme certainty.
Supporting Sustainable Infrastructure
Sustainability formed an important part of the project’s objectives. As a fully recyclable composite solution at the end of its service life, d² Dura Slab 45 contributes to circular economy principles and reduces reliance on traditional carbon-intensive trench cover materials. Its durability and low maintenance requirements also help minimise future replacement cycles and operational disruption, delivering long-term value to facility operators.
Results
- Specialist trench cover solution successfully installed within the UAE’s first indoor UCI-compliant velodrome
- Improved installation efficiency through lightweight GRP construction
- Reduced manual handling risks in restricted access areas
- Precise integration with pre-cast concrete trench infrastructure
- Secure access to building services through integrated fixing systems
- Durable, load-bearing performance suitable for elite sports facilities
- Fully recyclable solution supporting project sustainability goals
- Contribution to a flagship Abu Dhabi sports venue supporting the UAE’s cycling ambitions
Delivering within a high-precision indoor sporting environment demands absolute control over sequencing, setting-out, and safety. The d² Dura Slab system allowed Invicta ANARA’s clients to install a robust trench access solution efficiently, while meeting the performance and quality expectations of a world-class cycling facility.
— Sarun Vysakham, Project Team at Invitcta ANARA
