Creative Composites Group (CCG) has introduced a no-strut fibre-reinforced polymer tank cover system for wastewater treatment and chemical storage applications.
Developed by CCG member Enduro Composites, the AXS-3 NS system uses lighter removable panels and is intended for mid-span installations. The product builds on Enduro’s existing AXS-3 and XL-6 composite cover platforms.
No-strut design targets easier tank access
The AXS-3 NS tank cover is custom-designed according to the size, shape and loading requirements of an individual tank. It can be configured for round or rectangular wastewater and chemical tanks.
Its no-strut configuration uses lighter panels designed to be easier to handle and remove during maintenance. Enduro says the panels weigh approximately 11 pounds per linear foot, although the weight and handling requirements of a finished section will depend on its dimensions.
An integrated lock channel connects adjoining panels while providing a relatively smooth transition across the walking surface. The system uses a limited number of fasteners, with individual sections removable to provide access to equipment or treatment processes beneath the cover.
Brian Haygood, vice-president for water and wastewater at Creative Composites Group, said facilities using the no-strut design had reported shorter installation and maintenance times. He added that the integrated non-skid surface had also received positive operator feedback.
FRP construction resists corrosive environments
The cover panels are manufactured from fibre-reinforced polymer, commonly abbreviated to FRP. This material combines a polymer resin with reinforcing fibres to produce lightweight structural components.
FRP does not corrode in the same way as unprotected carbon steel when exposed to water or many treatment chemicals. Material selection must still reflect the chemicals, temperature, ultraviolet exposure and structural loads present at an individual installation.
H2O Global News has previously examined the use of FRP equipment in corrosive water and wastewater environments. These applications include strainers, covers, platforms, pipework and other infrastructure exposed to water or process chemicals.
The modular construction of the AXS-3 NS allows individual panels to be removed or replaced. This could reduce the extent of work required when access or localised repairs are needed, compared with a monolithic cover structure.
Gaskets support odour and process containment
Enduro uses ethylene propylene diene monomer, or EPDM, gaskets at panel joints, end conditions and access hatches. These seals are intended to control air movement and contain odours and gases associated with treatment processes.
The company also says the panels can be compression-sealed to support liquid and vapour containment. Final performance will depend on the design, installation, inspection and maintenance of the complete cover system.
Tank covers can serve several purposes at water and wastewater facilities. Depending on their design, these may include odour control, restricting debris or ultraviolet light, improving process protection and providing an operator access surface.
TreadMax surface integrated during manufacturing
AXS-3 NS includes Enduro’s TreadMax non-skid surface technology. Unlike tapes or coatings applied after panel fabrication, the textured surface is formed as part of the composite manufacturing process.
Enduro says this creates an inseparable walking surface and removes a secondary fabrication stage. The surface is designed to provide multidirectional slip resistance for operators accessing the cover.
The manufacturing process is covered by US Patent 12,472,702, titled “Fiber reinforced plastic components with increased slip-resistance and methods of manufacture.” The patent was issued to Enduro Composites in November 2025.
Specified loading, deflection and slip-resistance requirements should still be confirmed for each installation. Site owners will also need to determine appropriate access controls, fall protection and inspection procedures based on the tank and its operating environment.
AXS-3 tank cover design receives patent protection
The underlying AXS-3 system is protected by US Patent 12,320,379, which covers tank cover and panel connection arrangements. Creative Composites Group also reports that the system has received patent protection in Canada.
The patented design addresses removable panel connections, locking channels, gaskets and other features associated with repeatable access. Its aim is to allow panels to be removed and reinstalled without progressively damaging their fastening points.
AXS-3 NS is being offered for municipal and industrial wastewater facilities as well as chemical tanks. Project-specific engineering will be required to establish panel spans, support arrangements, access openings and load capacity.
Frequently asked questions
AXS-3 NS is a modular fibre-reinforced polymer tank cover designed for wastewater treatment and chemical tanks. Its lighter removable panels are intended for mid-span installations.
The designation refers to the product’s no-strut panel configuration, which is designed to simplify installation, panel removal and maintenance access.
Fibre-reinforced polymer is lightweight and resistant to many wet and chemically corrosive environments. The correct resin and structural design must be selected for the conditions at each site.
TreadMax is Enduro’s patented non-skid surface technology. Its textured surface is formed during manufacture rather than being added later as a separate tape or coating.
Yes. Enduro says the covers can be designed for round or rectangular tanks in different sizes, subject to project-specific structural and operational requirements.
