Heavy-Duty Soakaway Crate for Sustainable Surface Water Management
The AquaCrate 400L is a robust stormwater crate designed for SuDS-compliant infiltration, attenuation or water retention systems. Made in the UK from recycled polypropylene, it provides a reliable solution for managing runoff in driveways, car parks, patios and landscaped areas. Strong enough for HGV traffic, this unit is modular, easy to handle, and fully recyclable at end of life.
Key Features
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High Load Capacity
Withstands vertical loads over 100 tonnes/m² (tested >200kN/m²) — suitable for car parks, access roads and HGV traffic.
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Modular and Lightweight
Crate dimensions: 1000 x 1000 x 400mm. Each unit weighs 16 kg and is easy to handle without machinery.
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Dual Application
Use with non-woven geotextile for infiltration, or add an impermeable membrane for water storage or attenuation.
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Sustainable Construction
Manufactured from 100% recycled polypropylene and fully recyclable.
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Quality Assured
UK-made to ISO 9001 standards for performance and durability.
Applications
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Infiltration Soakaways
Allows filtered rainwater to percolate back into the ground. Use with a needle-punched geotextile to block silt.
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Attenuation Systems
Wrap with impermeable membrane and geotextile fleece to store water temporarily before controlled release.
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Greywater Storage
Suitable for reusing rainwater in vehicle washing, toilet flushing, irrigation, or similar non-potable systems.
Package Options
| Package |
Crates Included |
Capacity |
Geotextile Wrap (Optional) |
| Single |
1 |
400L |
2.25m x 4m (9m²) |
| Triple |
3 |
1200L |
2.25m x 7m (15.75m²) |
| Six-Pack |
6 |
2400L |
2.25m x 11m (24.75m²) |
Geotextile wrap is cut to size for easy installation.
Installation Overview
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Excavate to required dimensions, allowing 500mm around the tank for backfilling.
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Remove soft spots and compact base. Lay 75mm of sharp sand.
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Install geotextile (and membrane if attenuation).
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Assemble crates and connect using included clips.
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Wrap crates and overlap joints by minimum 150mm.
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Connect pipework using proprietary fittings or flange adaptors.
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Backfill with Type 1 sub-base (trafficked areas) or compacted “as dug” (non-trafficked).
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Finish with suitable cover layer and ensure access points if maintenance is required.
Minimum cover depth varies by loading (see FAQs).
Technical Specifications
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Dimensions: 1000mm (L) x 1000mm (W) x 400mm (H)
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Capacity: 400L per crate
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Crates per m³: 2.5
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Weight: 16 kg
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Void Ratio: 95.5%
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Compressive Strength: >200kN/m²
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Lateral Strength: >70kN/m²
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Material: Recycled polypropylene
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Certification: ISO 9001 (UK Made)
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Load Rating: >100 tonnes/m² (HGV-capable)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the minimum cover required for traffic areas?
Minimum 750mm for general traffic, or adjust based on axle weight:
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- 250mm: 1-tonne axle
- 400mm: 6-tonne axle
- 650mm: 10-tonne axle
- 850mm: 13-tonne axle
How do I choose between infiltration and attenuation?
Use infiltration for natural drainage into soil (with geotextile). Choose attenuation where water needs to be held and released slowly (requires impermeable membrane).
Can these be used for greywater?
Yes. Wrap in a sealed membrane for greywater capture and reuse in non-potable systems.
Do they require specialist installation?
No. Crates are lightweight and modular. No machinery is required for handling.
Are inlet/outlet points pre-drilled?
No. Installer drills inlet holes as needed for site-specific pipework using standard adaptors or top-hats.
