Inspection Hatches and Manlids for Tankers and Silos
Inspection hatches are crucial to the safe and responsible operation of tankers. Supply Plus designs and manufactures inspection hatches and manlids under the +Collins Youldon brand, and every unit is made in the UK.
Our hatches keep unauthorised access at bay while still allowing easy inspection and maintenance. They are trusted by tanker builders and operators across a wide range of industries.
What Are Inspection Hatches Used For?
Tankers carry many different loads, and each one needs safe, secure access. Our inspection hatches and manlids are used in vehicles and vessels that transport:
Liquid energy products such as fuel oil, diesel and gasoil. Firefighting media such as water and foam concentrates. Foodstuffs, fertilisers, industrial chemicals and solvents.
Whatever the load, the hatch plays a key role. It provides a secure point of access for filling, inspection and routine maintenance, while protecting the contents from unauthorised entry.
Applications by Industry
Each +Collins Youldon hatch is matched to the needs of a particular sector. The list below shows the model most commonly used in each application.
Fire Industry
The 42VM is used in the fire industry. It is suitable for water and foam tanks fitted to fire and rescue vehicles.
Bulk Handling Silos
For bulk handling silos holding grain or flour, the 42M and 40VM are the preferred choices. They provide dependable access for dry bulk storage.
Bitumen
The 46A is designed for bitumen tankers. Its wide-opening hinged lid suits the demands of this specialist sector.
Fuel
The 50A is an aluminium manhole cover for fuel oil road tankers. It includes an integral emergency pressure relief valve.
Offshore Foam Tanks
The 42A is used on offshore foam tanks. It offers reliable access in demanding marine environments.
Water Bowsers
For water bowsers used in construction and washdown applications with non-potable water, the 40A and 42A are commonly specified.
Designed for Non-Pressurised Tanks and Silos
Our inspection hatches are designed for non-pressurised tanks and silos. This makes them suitable for a broad range of liquid and dry bulk applications.
Weld-in models are available. These eliminate the need for adaptor flanges, which simplifies installation and reduces the number of parts on the tank.
Hatches can be supplied with or without integrated pressure relief. Multiple aperture sizes, materials and pressure settings are also available, so you can specify the right hatch for each tank.
Style 40 and 42 Inspection Hatches
The Style 40 and 42 range is our most versatile family of inspection hatches. These models are rated up to 3psi.
The range includes the 40A, 42A, 40VM and 42VM models. The 40VMP is also available for petroleum spirit and fuel oil.
Key Features
Each hatch features a 10" quick-release hinged fill cover. This allows fast, convenient access for filling and inspection.
A weld-in neck ring is fitted for secure mounting to the tank shell. Multiple relief pressures are available on VM models to suit different operating needs.
Materials and Security
Mild steel is standard across the range. A stainless steel option is available on the 42A.
Removable baseplates make maintenance more straightforward. The hatches are also lockable, with the key supplied separately.
Compliance Note
Style 40 and 42 hatches are not ADR compliant and are not certified to EN13317. Please take this into account when specifying hatches for regulated dangerous goods applications.
Style 46A Bitumen Manlid
The Style 46A is a wide-opening hinged manlid. It is designed specifically for bitumen applications.
An 18" internal diameter neck ring is welded into the tank shell. The manlid is rated up to 3psi and is made from mild steel.
Supply Options
The 46A can be supplied as a complete assembly with a deep neck ring, or as a lid only. This gives tank builders and operators flexibility for new builds and replacements.
Sealing and Security
A nitrile bonded cork gasket is fitted as standard. The lid is secured with a swingbolt, which includes provision for a seal.
Style 50A Fuel Tanker Manhole Cover
The Style 50A is an aluminium manhole cover for fuel oil road tankers. It combines access, filling and safety functions in a single unit.
Integral Emergency Relief
The 50A features a 10" hinged fill cover and an integral 10" emergency pressure relief valve. This valve protects the tank in the event of over-filling or fire engulfment.
Simple, Secure Design
With few moving parts, the 50A is straightforward to operate and maintain. A lock is fitted at the point of manufacture for added security.
Approval and Use
The 50A was originally approved under earlier dangerous substances regulations. It is now supplied for remount and replacement use where permitted.
How to Choose the Right Inspection Hatch
Selecting the correct hatch depends on several factors. Considering each one carefully helps ensure safe, efficient and compliant tanker operation.
Consider the Load
Start with the product being carried or stored. Fuel oil, bitumen, foam concentrate, water and dry bulk materials such as grain or flour each have different requirements.
Consider Pressure Relief
Decide whether integrated pressure relief is required. VM models offer multiple relief pressures, while the 50A includes an integral emergency pressure relief valve for fuel oil tankers.
Consider Material and Size
Mild steel is standard on most models, with stainless steel available on the 42A and aluminium used on the 50A. Multiple aperture sizes are available across the range.
Consider Installation
Weld-in models remove the need for adaptor flanges. The 46A can be supplied with a deep neck ring or as a lid only, which suits both new builds and replacement work.
Consider Regulations
Check the regulatory requirements for your application. Style 40 and 42 hatches are not ADR compliant, while the 50A is supplied for remount and replacement use where permitted.
Support for OEMs and Tanker Builders
Supply Plus works closely with original equipment manufacturers and end users. Our inspection hatches have proven field performance across many sectors.
They are built for liquid storage, energy and specialist tankers worldwide. Our team can help you select the right model, material and pressure setting for your application.
Because we design and manufacture in the UK, we understand the demands placed on our products. That knowledge helps us deliver hatches that perform reliably over the long term.
Part of a Wider Range
Inspection hatches form part of our wider +Collins Youldon range. This also includes hose reels, mobile hose reels, Catherine reels and cable drums.
For fire and rescue vehicles, our hatches sit alongside +AS ladders, gantries and shutters. Together, these products provide complete access, storage and deployment solutions.
Spares and accessories are available to keep your equipment in service. Our team can advise on replacement parts for existing installations.
Why Choose Supply Plus?
Supply Plus Ltd is a UK-based leader in the design, manufacture and global distribution of life-saving and life-sustaining equipment. Our brands, +AS Fire & Safety, +Bayley and +Collins Youldon, are all British made.
We export to over 60 countries. Our customers choose us for several reasons.
Trusted Partner
We act as a trusted partner for long-term problem solving. We work closely with OEMs and end users to understand their needs.
Technical Expertise
Our technical expertise is driven by manufacturing innovation. We continue to develop products that meet the changing needs of our customers.
Quality and Safety
We offer quality assured reliability and safety by design. Every product is made in the UK and backed by after-sales and dedicated support.
Responsible Business
Supply Plus is certified to ISO 14001 and is part of the Lagercrantz Group International Division. Our 3P philosophy of People, Planet and Profit guides how we operate.
Request a Quote or Datasheet
Looking for the right inspection hatch or manlid for your tanker or silo? Our team is ready to help with product selection, specifications and pricing.
Call us on +44 (0) 1480 832200 or email
