Filcoten Trench Drain FAQs and Resources

Filcoten Trench Drain Installation Display

What is the Filcoten Trench Drain System?

Filcoten is NDS's line of high-performance concrete (HPC) trench drains designed for professional contractors, civil engineers, and commercial applications requiring superior strength and durability. Unlike polymer concrete systems, Filcoten channels are manufactured from fiber-reinforced concrete with integral galvanized steel rails, creating a lightweight yet incredibly strong drainage solution. The system is available in three width configurations: 4" Tec V100, 8" Tec V200, and 12" Tec V300, offering load ratings from Class A 15kN up to Class E 600kN (DIN 19580 standard). Filcoten trench drains are ideal for factories, warehouses, parking garages, car dealerships, gas stations, public plazas, sports complexes, town squares, and railway stations. The high-performance concrete construction provides exceptional adhesion to surrounding concrete foundations due to its monolithic bonding capability and complete absence of de-molding agents. Each channel features a smooth inverted profile with radiused extract for efficient liquid drainage and multiple anchoring ribs to securely hold the body into the concrete foundation. The galvanized steel rail system accepts a wide variety of grate options, including mesh, slotted, perforated, honeycomb composite, and ductile iron grates in multiple decorative patterns. Filcoten channels are temperature, frost, and UV resistant with minimal contraction and expansion, ensuring longer product life. The system is non-flammable (rated A1, non-combustible), 100% recyclable, and free from VOCs, styrene, biocides, and heavy metals, making it an environmentally responsible choice for sustainable construction projects.

Applications for Filcoten Trench Drains

Recommended applications of the Filcoten Trench Drain System include:

Commercial Areas (factories, warehouses, parking garages)
Public Spaces (town squares, plazas, railway stations)
Residential Hardscapes (driveways, patios, pool decks)
Sports Facilities (athletic fields, tennis courts, running tracks)
Industrial Sites (loading docks, distribution centers)
Car Dealerships and Gas Stations
Parks and Foot Paths
Cycle Paths and Pedestrian Areas

Filcoten Trench Drain Features

High-performance concrete construction is stronger than polymer concrete
Available in three widths: 4" (NW100), 8" (NW200), and 12" (NW300)
Modular design with 39.40" (1000mm) standard length sections
Pre-sloped channels with built-in 0.5% slope or neutral (0%) sections available
Integral galvanized steel rails for secure grate attachment
Load ratings from Class A 15kN to Class E 600kN (DIN 19580)
Temperature, frost, and UV resistant for long service life
Monolithic concrete adhesion bonds securely with the surrounding foundation
Non-flammable construction (A1 rated, non-combustible)
100% recyclable with zero harmful substances (VOC-free, styrene-free)
Wide range of grate materials and styles, including ADA-compliant options
Multiple outlet configuration,s including bottom outlets and catch basin kits

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I purchase Filcoten Trench Drains and accessories?

We're a little biased, but we believe there's no better place to buy NDS Filcoten products than here at Drainage Connect. You can browse our selection of Filcoten products here.

What are the differences between the three Filcoten systems?

The Filcoten line offers three distinct channel widths to accommodate different flow capacity and application requirements:

4" Tec V100: Nominal width 4" (100mm), load class A 15kN to E 600kN. Invert depths range from 5.31" to 7.28" (135mm to 185mm). Maximum flow rate up to 95.1 GPM. Ideal for pedestrian areas, light vehicle traffic, and residential applications.
8" Tec V200: Nominal width 8" (200mm), load class A 15kN to E 600kN. Invert depths range from 9.45" to 14.37" (240mm to 365mm). Maximum flow rate up to 678 GPM. Suitable for parking lots, commercial hardscapes, and moderate traffic areas.
12" Tec V300: Nominal width 12" (300mm), load class A 15kN to F 900kN. Invert depths range from 12.79" to 16.73" (325mm to 425mm). Maximum flow rate up to 120.46 GPM (mini shallow configuration available at 4.72" depth). Designed for heavy-duty applications, industrial facilities, and high-volume drainage requirements.

What channel drain lengths are available?

All Filcoten channel drains are available in 39.40" (1000mm) standard lengths. The system uses sequentially numbered sloped sections (channels #1 through #20) combined with neutral sections (#0-0, #5-0, #10-0, #20-0) to create runs of varying lengths. Maximum run lengths depend on the specific configuration: using only sloped channels with a catch basin in the middle allows 135 feet of continuous drainage, while incorporating all slopes with one of each neutral section and a catch basin extends the run to 162 feet.

What color and material grates are available?

Filcoten trench drain grates are available in multiple materials and configurations. Galvanized steel grates include slotted, perforated, and mesh designs rated from Class A to Class C. Composite honeycomb (COMBee) grates provide ADA-compliant, heel-proof options in Class B through Class D. Ductile iron grates are available in longitudinal bar, slotted, and decorative patterns (KIARO, VIA, VILLE) rated from Class C to Class E. Slot top grates are available in both galvanized steel and stainless steel with Class C load rating, featuring a sleek 0.5" slot width and hidden maintenance unit options for minimal visual impact.

Are heavy-duty metal grates available?

Yes! The Filcoten trench drain system offers extensive ductile iron grate options to accommodate load ratings up to Class E (600kN / 134,800 lbs per foot) and Class F (900kN / 202,320 lbs per foot) for the 12" Tec V300 system. Ductile iron grates include longitudinal bar designs, slotted configurations, and decorative patterns like KIARO, VIA, and VILLE. All ductile iron grates attach via a 4-point locking system (4" Tec V100 and 8" Tec V200) or 4-point bolting system (12" Tec V300). See our complete selection here.

What is the load rating of Filcoten Trench Drains?

Load ratings are based on proper concrete encasement and appropriate grate selection. The Filcoten high-performance concrete channel body with galvanized steel rails supports the following load classes (DIN 19580/EN 1433 standards):

Class A: 15kN (3,372 lbs) - Pedestrians, bicyclists, planted areas
Class B: 125kN (28,100 lbs) - Parking lots, delivery vehicles
Class C: 250kN (56,200 lbs) - Road shoulders, parking lots, curbs
Class D: 400kN (89,920 lbs) - Highways, H-20 to HS-25 loading
Class E: 600kN (134,800 lbs) - Industrial facilities, heavy wheel loads
Class F: 900kN (202,320 lbs) - Airports, docks, cranes (NW300 only)

Final load class depends on both channel construction and grate material. Always verify the complete system meets your project's load requirements.

Does the Filcoten Trench Drain ship with any attachments?

Each section of Filcoten trench drain includes integral galvanized steel rails molded into the high-performance concrete body. Grates are sold separately and attach via either a hidden 4-point self-locking system (4" Tec V100 and 8" Tec V200) or a 4-point bolting system (12" Tec V300). Grate screws or bolts must be ordered separately based on the grate material. Rebar support accessories are available to facilitate proper channel height adjustment during installation.

Can the Filcoten trench drain make bends or curves?

The Filcoten system is designed for straight runs. For applications requiring directional changes, the system supports step slopes and counter-directional runs using neutral sections and catch basins at transition points. Radius or curved sections are not available in the Filcoten line. For projects requiring curved drainage paths, consider planning multiple straight runs with catch basins at angle changes, or consult with our technical team for alternative NDS systems that accommodate curves.

How do I connect the channels together?

Filcoten trench drain channels connect using a male-female tongue and groove system. Each channel section has one male end and one female end that interlock during installation. The channels must be installed in ascending numerical order (starting with the smallest part number) to ensure proper slope progression. The interlocking design creates a secure, aligned connection without requiring separate coupling hardware. Expansion joints must be provided parallel to each side of the drain run to accommodate thermal movement.

How does water drain out of the Filcoten Trench Drains?

Water can be drained from Filcoten trench drains using several outlet configurations. Each channel section is molded with a bottom outlet location that can be drilled out and fitted with No Hub bottom outlet adapters in 4", 6", or 8" sizes, depending on the channel width. The 4" Tec V100 accepts 4" outlets, the 8" Tec V200 accepts 4", 6", or 8" outlets, and the 12" Tec V300 accepts 4", 6", or 8" outlets. Alternatively, catch basin kits are available for each system size, featuring integral trash buckets and outlet connections. End cap accessories with outlet options are also available. Outlets should be connected at the deepest end of the trench drain run for optimal drainage performance.

What catch basin options are available?

Filcoten offers engineered catch basin kits for each system size:

4" Tec V100: Catch basin kit with basket and 6" outlet, overall depth 19.29"
8" Tec V200: Catch basin kit with basket and 8" outlet (requires pipe connector), overall depth 28.22"
12" Tec V300: Catch basin kit with basket and 8" outlet (requires pipe connector), overall depth 36.28"

All catch basin kits include integral trash buckets for sediment collection and maintenance. Basin end cap connectors are available for the 12" Tec V300 system to facilitate proper system termination.

How much water can the Filcoten channels handle?

Flow capacity varies by channel width and depth configuration:

4" Tec V100: Maximum flow rates range from 47.6 GPM (neutral configuration) to 95.1 GPM (deepest sloped configuration)
8" Tec V200: Maximum flow rates range from 369 GPM (neutral configuration) to 678 GPM (deepest sloped configuration)
12" Tec V300: Maximum flow rates range from 120.46 GPM (mini shallow configuration) to 827 GPM (deepest standard configuration, estimated based on channel progression)

The smooth U-shaped invert profile facilitates efficient water flow and sediment removal. All flow rates are provided at maximum depth with proper slope configuration. Consult the technical specifications for your specific channel sequence to determine exact hydraulic capacity.

What is the built-in slope?

Sloped Filcoten channel sections have a built-in 0.5% slope (0.5% fall per unit length). Each 39.40" (1000mm) section drops approximately 0.20" in elevation from the male end to the female end. When channels are connected in ascending numerical order, this creates a continuous 0.5% slope throughout the drainage run. Neutral sections (designated with "-0" suffixes like #0-0, #5-0, #10-0, #20-0) have flat bottoms with 0% slope and are used to extend runs or create level sections where needed.

What are the depths of the Filcoten channels?

Channel depths vary by system and configuration:

4" Tec V100: Invert depths range from 5.31" (channel #100/0) to 7.28" (channel #100/10-0), measuring from the top of the channel to the flow line
8" Tec V200: Invert depths range from 9.45" (channel #0-0) to 14.37" (channel #20-0), measuring from the top of the channel to the flow line
12" Tec V300: Invert depths range from 4.72" (mini shallow body) to 16.73" (channel #20-0), measuring from the top of the channel to the flow line

Note that invert depths listed are for the male end of each channel. The female end will be approximately 0.2" deeper on sloped sections due to the 0.5% slope. Neutral sections maintain consistent depth at both ends.

What is the longest run that can be done using Filcoten channels?

The maximum run length depends on your configuration strategy. Using only sloped channels with a catch basin in the middle allows 135 feet of continuous slope. By incorporating all slopes with one of each neutral section (#0-0, #5-0, #10-0, #20-0) and a catch basin in the middle, you can extend the maximum run length to 162 feet. Additional neutral sections can be added to further lengthen the system, though we recommend limiting consecutive neutral sections to maintain proper flow velocity and prevent standing water. For longer drainage runs, consider installing multiple systems with intermediate catch basins or outlets.

How are the grates connected to the channel?

Grate attachment method depends on the Filcoten system:

4" Tec V100 and 8" Tec V200: Grates attach via a hidden 4-point self-locking system. The grates snap into place and are secured with the integral locking mechanism. No visible fasteners required.
12" Tec V300: Grates attach via a 4-point bolting system. Bolts must be ordered separately (part 32112 for galvanized grates, part 32110 for ductile iron grates). Four bolts are required per grate section.

Vandal-proof locks are available for all system sizes to prevent unauthorized grate removal in public areas.

How do I connect to the bottom of the channel drain?

To connect drainage pipe to Filcoten channels, drill out the pre-formed bottom outlet location on the channel and install the appropriate No Hub bottom outlet adapter. The system offers 4", 6", and 8" No Hub outlet options, depending on channel width. Use NDS flexible couplings to connect the outlet adapter to SDR35 sewer and drain pipe or Schedule 40 PVC pipe. Tighten the clamps to secure the connection. The 8" catch basin kits require an 8" pipe connector (part 70154) to complete the outlet connection. Always connect outlets at the deepest point of the drainage run for optimal performance.

What concrete encasement is required for installation?

Proper concrete encasement is critical for achieving rated load capacity. Minimum requirements vary by load class:

Load Class A-B: Minimum 4" (100mm) concrete encasement on all sides, 4,000 psi compressive strength
Load Class C: Minimum 6" (150mm) concrete encasement on all sides, 4,000 psi compressive strength
Load Class D-E: Minimum 8" (200mm) concrete encasement on all sides, 4,000 psi compressive strength

Poor site conditions and low load-bearing pavement may require increased encasement dimensions to meet both vertical and lateral loads. Reinforcing steel may be required within the slab and around the trench drain. Engineering guidance should be taken to confirm appropriate needs and dimensions for any specific project. The high-performance concrete channel material provides exceptional adhesion to the surrounding concrete foundation due to monolithic bonding and the absence of de-molding agents.

Do I need to worry about expansion and contraction?

The high-performance concrete construction of Filcoten channels exhibits minimal thermal expansion and contraction compared to polymer concrete systems, contributing to longer product life and reduced maintenance. However, expansion joints must be provided parallel to each side of the drain run as part of the overall pavement design. For grate installation, NDS recommends leaving 1/8" gap between adjacent grate sections to allow for any expansion or contraction that may occur. The UV-resistant material and temperature-resistant formulation minimize dimensional changes across seasonal temperature variations.

How do I prevent concrete from filling the channel during installation?

Before the concrete pour, protect the channel interior by placing protective covers or formwork over the open channel. Tape over any drilled bottom outlets and outlet connections to prevent concrete intrusion. Some contractors use removable foam inserts or wooden blocking to maintain the channel profile during the pour. After the concrete has been finished and fully cured, remove all protective materials and install the final grates. Clean any concrete residue from the channel interior and grate seating surfaces before final grate installation.

Do the Filcoten channels have to be installed in a particular order?

Yes. When using pre-sloped channel sections, they must be installed in ascending numerical order, starting with the lowest part number. Each channel is clearly labeled with an NDS part number. Installing in the proper sequence ensures the 0.5% slope progresses correctly throughout the drainage run. Neutral sections (0% slope) can be inserted at designated points in the sequence (typically at #0-0, #5-0, #10-0, or #20-0 positions) to extend run length or accommodate site conditions requiring level sections. Always begin installation at the shallowest point and work toward the outlet or catch basin location.

What makes high-performance concrete better than polymer concrete?

High-performance concrete (HPC) offers several advantages over polymer concrete trench drain systems:

Superior Strength: HPC is stronger than polymer concrete, allowing for lightweight construction without sacrificing load capacity
Monolithic Adhesion: Free from de-molding agents, Filcoten HPC bonds securely with the surrounding concrete foundation, preventing movement and settlement
Temperature Resistance: Less contraction and expansion than polymer concrete, with superior frost resistance and longer product life
Non-Flammable: Manufactured without resins, Filcoten HPC is rated A1 non-combustible, ideal for industrial applications
Environmental: 100% recyclable with zero harmful substances - free from VOCs, styrene, biocides, heavy metals, and radioactivity
UV Resistance: Will not degrade, fade, or become brittle from sun exposure
Chemical Resistance: Exceptional resistance to acids, alkalis, oils, and chemicals, including road salt

Are there mini shallow channel options available?

Yes! The Filcoten mini shallow series offers reduced-depth channels for applications where standard trench drain depth is not required or feasible:

4" Tec V100 mini: Constant depth 2.36" x 4" channel body
8" Tec V200 mini: Constant depth 3.94" x 8" channel body
12" Tec V300 mini: Constant depth 4.72" x 12" channel body, flow rate 120.46 GPM

Mini shallow channels are neutral (0% slope) configurations ideal for environmentally sensitive areas because the channel body is free of resins, VOCs, and chemicals. These shallow profiles work well for pool decks, pedestrian plazas, and applications where excavation depth is limited. Bottom outlet connections in 4", 6", and 8" sizes are compatible with mini shallow channels.

What accessories are available for the Filcoten system?

Filcoten offers a complete range of accessories for system installation and maintenance:

End Caps: Galvanized steel front/end caps (closed or with outlet options) for all channel widths
Bottom Outlets: No Hub bottom outlet adapters in 4", 6", and 8" sizes
Catch Basins: Complete basin kits with trash buckets and pipe connectors
Rebar Supports: Channel-specific rebar support brackets for proper height adjustment during installation
Step Plates: Transition plates for 8" and 12" systems
Vandal Locks: Security locks to prevent unauthorized grate removal
Trash Buckets: Removable silt/sediment baskets for maintenance (4", 8", and 12" sizes)
Flexible Couplings: NDS No Hub couplings for connecting various pipe diameters
Bolts and Hardware: Grate attachment bolts for 12" system (galvanized and ductile iron options)

Filcoten System Comparison

Use this comparison table to select the appropriate Filcoten system for your application:

Feature	4" Tec V100	8" Tec V200	12" Tec V300
Nominal Width	4" (100mm)	8" (200mm)	12" (300mm)
Load Rating	Class A 15kN - E 600kN	Class A 15kN - E 600kN	Class A 15kN - F 900kN
Invert Depth Range	5.31" - 7.28"	9.45" - 14.37"	4.72" - 16.73"
Maximum Flow Rate	95.1 GPM	678 GPM	827 GPM (est.)
Section Length	39.40" (1000mm)	39.40" (1000mm)	39.40" (1000mm)
Built-in Slope	0.5% (sloped sections)	0.5% (sloped sections)	0.5% (sloped sections)
Grate Attachment	4-point self-locking	4-point self-locking	4-point bolting
Bottom Outlet Options	4" No Hub	4", 6", 8" No Hub	4", 6", 8" No Hub
Catch Basin Available	Yes (6" outlet)	Yes (8" outlet)	Yes (8" outlet)
Mini Shallow Option	Yes (2.36" depth)	Yes (3.94" depth)	Yes (4.72" depth)
Typical Applications	Pedestrian areas, residential driveways, light traffic	Parking lots, commercial hardscapes, moderate traffic	Industrial facilities, highways, heavy-duty applications

Product Installation Instructions

Proper installation is critical for achieving rated load capacity and long-term performance. The following installation details are available for Filcoten trench drain systems:

General Installation Guidelines

An installed Filcoten trench drain system should incorporate the following:

Correct the grate type and load rating for the application
Correct channel type and size for hydraulic requirements
Minimum grade 4,000 psi compressive strength cement concrete surround
Surrounding concrete dimensions are minimum dimensions - engineering guidance should be taken to confirm appropriate needs and dimensions for any specific project

Poor site conditions and low load-bearing pavement will require an increase in these dimensions to meet both vertical and lateral loads. Reinforcing steel may be required within the slab and around the trench drain. Engineering guidance should be taken to confirm appropriate needs and dimensions for any specific project.

Installation Detail

The following installation configurations are recommended based on pavement type and load class:

Paver Pavement - Load Class A-F

Concrete encasement with 4"-12" width (100mm-300mm)
Paver surface: 4"-12" on either side
Minimum 4,000 psi concrete surround

Concrete Pavement - Load Class A-F

Expansion joint on each side of the channel run
Concrete encasement: 4"-12" width (100mm-300mm) on either side
Minimum 4,000 psi concrete throughout

Asphalt Pavement - Load Class A-F

Asphalt thickness per load requirements
Concrete encasement: 4"-12" width (100mm-300mm)
Hidden concrete foundation beneath asphalt surface

Asphalt Pavement with Hidden Concrete - Load Class A-E

Asphalt surface layer
Concrete base course surrounding channel
4"-12" concrete encasement (100mm-300mm) on either side

Paver Pavement with Hidden Concrete - Load Class A-E

Paver surface with bedding layer
Concrete base surrounding channel
Proper drainage beneath pavement structure

For complete installation specifications, CAD details, and load-specific requirements, contact our technical team or download the full Filcoten installation manual.

Technical Specifications Summary

Material Properties - High Performance Concrete

Compressive Strength: 11,700 PSI
Flexural Strength: 1,700 PSI
Non-flammable: A1 rated (non-combustible)
UV Resistant: YES
Recyclable: 100%
Dilute acid and alkali resistant: YES
Frost thaw salt tested per EN1433: Passes (tested to 60°F below zero)
Material free of VOC, biocides, heavy metals: YES

Standard Components

Channel body: Fiber-reinforced High Performance Concrete (HPC)
Rails: Integral galvanized steel (stainless steel available by special order)
Grates: Available in galvanized steel, stainless steel, composite, and ductile iron
Section length: 39.40" (1000mm) standard
Connection: Male-female tongue and groove interlocking system

Compliance Standards

Load testing per DIN EN 1433 / DIN 19580
ADA-compliant grate options available
Heel-proof grate designs available
Fire rating: A1 non-combustible

Technical Support and Project Assistance

Our drainage experts are available to help you select the correct Filcoten system for your specific application. Whether you need assistance with hydraulic calculations, load class determination, or installation guidance, we're here to help.

Contact our team:

For large commercial or municipal projects, we can provide submittal packages, AutoCAD details, and engineering support documentation.