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Shallow Channel Drain System - 39.37" - ACO H100-8

Shallow Channel Drain System - 39.37" - ACO H100-8

Shallow Channel Drain System - 39.37" - ACO H100-8

$155.00


FREE SHIPPING
SKU SLABDRAIN-H-HK

The Shallow Channel Drain System is engineered for applications where excavation depth is limited, such as parking decks, plazas, balconies, and retrofit installations. Each channel is constructed from polymer concrete with a compressive strength of 14,000 psi and very low water absorption, providing long-lasting durability and strong resistance to chemical exposure.

Key Features:

  • Edge Options – Available with polymer (H Series), galvanized or stainless steel (HK Series), or ductile iron (HSK Series) edges to meet load requirements up to Class F.

  • Widths – Offered in 4″, 8″, and 12″ internal widths with a neutral-depth (flat invert) design that simplifies layout and installation.

  • Grating & Locking Systems – Wide range of ADA-compliant, heel-resistant, and decorative grates secured with QuickLok®, DrainLok, or PowerLok, providing quick installation and easy maintenance access.


System Selection:

  • Scroll down to select your system components. Multiple channel units are connected together and then paired with accessories such as drains and grates. 

Note: ACO drainage products are subject to a $750 minimum order


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View Our Full Selection of ACO Trench Drain Products →

Ordering Info:

Please scroll down for the complete SlabDrain H & HK Series product listing with pricing. Not sure of the exact parts needed for your project? Please submit an ACO Trench Drain Quote Request >

Spec Sheets

Visit acowm.com to download specification sheets and other technical information.

Shipping

  • All items ship for free (standard ground, see map)
  • Call: (800) 583-4891 for pricing and shipping questions. Shipping estimates shown on the map pertain to this specific product only.
  • Orders typically ship in 1-3 business days. Transit times displayed in the map are listed in business days, and are approximate. The day that the order is shipped is not counted as a transit day.
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Trench Drain System & Accessories (Free Shipping)

Please see the below product listing. Please note, accessories (grates, basins, caps, etc.) must be purchased with a trench drain system including channels and cannot ship alone.

Shallow Channel Drain System: Complete Guide for Limited-Depth Applications

The Shallow Channel Drain System is engineered for projects where installation depth is limited but efficient water management is critical. These systems are perfect for plazas, parking decks, balconies, and retrofit applications. By using polymer concrete channels with superior compressive strength (14,000 psi) and low water absorption, they provide long-lasting durability, chemical resistance, and structural integrity in even the most demanding environments.

Shallow channel drain system installed at large office park walkway
Shallow Channel Drain System integrated into an office park walkway

What Makes Shallow Channel Drains Different?

Unlike deeper trench systems, shallow drains allow installation where excavation depth is restricted. Their neutral-depth design (flat invert) makes layout simple and flexible, accommodating long runs without complex grading requirements.

Key Features:
  • Widths: Available in 4", 8", and 12" internal widths
  • Edges: Polymer (H Series), galvanized or stainless (HK Series), or ductile iron (HSK Series)
  • Load Capacity: Suitable up to Class F loads
  • Grates: ADA-compliant, heel-resistant, and decorative options
  • Locking Systems: QuickLok®, DrainLok, and PowerLok for secure, fast maintenance
Shallow channel drain system providing surface water management at commercial walkway
Commercial office park walkway using shallow drainage channels

Applications of Shallow Channel Drain Systems

  • Parking Decks: Manage runoff where excavation depth is limited by structural slabs.
  • Plazas & Courtyards: Discreet water management that maintains pedestrian safety.
  • Balconies & Rooftops: Lightweight, durable solutions compatible with limited build-up depths.
  • Retrofits: Ideal for existing developments where deeper excavation isn’t possible.

Because of their modular design, shallow channels can be customized with various grate options to meet ADA requirements, architectural aesthetics, and pedestrian safety standards. Their adaptability ensures that both function and design are maintained without compromise.

Shallow channel drain system installed in landscaped office park area
Shallow Channel Drain integrated seamlessly into a landscaped office park

Installation & Maintenance Advantages

  1. Easy Layout: Neutral-depth channels simplify installation without complex slope adjustments.
  2. Durability: Polymer concrete resists chemical damage, freeze-thaw cycles, and wear.
  3. Quick Access: Boltless locking systems (QuickLok®, DrainLok, PowerLok) speed up grate removal and reduce downtime.
  4. Safety: ADA-compliant, heel-proof grates ensure safe pedestrian traffic flow.

Routine maintenance is streamlined with secure, tool-free locking mechanisms, making inspections, cleaning, and replacements faster and less labor-intensive.

Case Study: Office Park Walkway Retrofit

Challenge: A large office park faced frequent pooling along its main pedestrian walkways after rainfall. Excavation depth was limited due to existing concrete slabs, making traditional trench drains impractical.

Solution: A 200-foot run of Shallow Channel Drain System was installed along landscaped areas and pedestrian corridors. Using 8" wide polymer concrete channels with stainless steel edge rails and ADA-compliant decorative grates, the system provided both durability and architectural appeal. QuickLok® locking was chosen to simplify future maintenance.

Results: The new drainage system eliminated standing water, improved pedestrian safety, and enhanced the overall appearance of the office park. Facility managers noted faster cleanup times after storms and reduced slip hazards for employees and visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose a shallow channel drain over a standard trench system?

Shallow drains are specifically designed for spaces where digging deep trenches is not possible—such as rooftops, balconies, and decks. They maintain performance while minimizing excavation depth.

Can shallow channels handle vehicle traffic?

Yes, with proper edge selection (galvanized, stainless steel, or ductile iron), shallow channel drains can be rated up to Class F, making them suitable for light to heavy-duty vehicular traffic.

Are decorative grates available?

Yes. Options include ADA-compliant and heel-resistant grates in decorative styles, allowing systems to blend seamlessly with architectural environments while meeting safety standards.

Plan Your Drainage Project

If your project involves limited installation depth but demands reliable water management, a Shallow Channel Drain System is the ideal solution. From plazas to rooftops, these systems provide strength, safety, and design flexibility.

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