H-Series Double Acting Manhole Frame

Heavy-duty hydraulic bracing system for large square and rectangular excavations

4-sided telescopic hydraulic frame
Double-acting rams for precision
For large tank and manhole excavations
Interchangeable legs for modular sizes
High-capacity shoring support
Delivered nationwide across the UK

The H-Series Double Acting Manhole Frame is a heavy-duty, 4-sided telescopic hydraulic bracing system. Designed for large, square, or rectangular excavations, this high-capacity frame is ideal for supporting deep tank installations, pump stations, and major manhole construction.

Used in conjunction with Trench Sheets, the H-Series system creates a safe, obstruction-free working environment. Each corner features a double-acting hydraulic ram, which provides precise control during both installation and extraction. By pressurising the legs, the frame braces the trench sheets securely against the earth to prevent collapse.

Interchangeable and Adaptable

The H-Series system is modular. With interchangeable leg sizes ranging from the H40 (3030mm - 3830mm) up to the H90X (7000mm - 11000mm), it can be configured to support a wide variety of excavation footprints.

When planning your excavation, it is essential to account for both the depth of the trench sheet pan and the section size of the manhole frame itself. To calculate the internal clear dimensions, you must subtract the section width of the H-Series frame (e.g. 250mm, 300mm, or 350mm) from the overall sheet-to-sheet span.

Complete the System

We also supply the necessary manual or powered hydraulic pumps to pressurise the system, alongside safety accessories such as edge protection. For complex ground conditions, our engineers can provide bespoke Temporary Works Design to ensure the safest configuration for your project.

H-Series: Common Questions

What is an H-Series Manhole Frame?

The H-Series Manhole Frame is a 4-sided, heavy-duty hydraulic bracing system used to support large square or rectangular excavations. It consists of modular, interchangeable legs with double-acting hydraulic rams in each corner, bracing trench sheets against the soil.

What does double-acting hydraulic bracing mean?

Double-acting hydraulic bracing means the rams can be powered in both directions. This allows for both controlled pressurisation during installation to secure the excavation, and powered retraction during extraction to easily release the frame from the trench sheets.

What sizes are available in the H-Series bracing range?

The H-Series bracing range features interchangeable legs spanning from the H40 (3030mm - 3830mm sheet-to-sheet) up to the H90X (7000mm - 11000mm). This modularity allows the frame to be configured for a vast range of excavation sizes.

How do I calculate the clear internal working space?

To calculate the clear internal working space within the H-Series frame, subtract the width of the outer box section from the sheet-to-sheet dimension. For example, the H75 frame has a 300mm section, so you must subtract this from your span.

Do I need a temporary works design for this system?

Yes, for deep or complex excavations using the H-Series Manhole Frame, a Temporary Works Design is strongly recommended to ensure the frame configuration and Safe Working Loads (SWL) are adequate for the specific ground conditions and depth.

Hire H Series Manhole Frame

For more information and hire rates for the H Series Manhole Frame or any of our bracing systems range, please contact your nearest depot.

Specification

Type	Sheet to Sheet Range	Section Size	Leg Weight	Min Extension	Max Extension
Type	mm	mm	kg	kN/m	kN/m
H40	3030 - 3830	250	490	108	76
H40X	3000 - 4500	250	550	160	70
H47	3680 - 4480	250	529	86	54
H60	4000 - 6000	250	800	95	41
H75	5500 - 7500	300	1270	70	37
H80	5000 - 8000	300	1276	93	35
H90	7000 - 9000	350	1550	60	35
H90X	7000 - 11000	350	2000	64	25

For internal clear dimensions, please subtract the section width (250mm, 300mm, or 350mm depending on model) from the sheet to sheet measurement. Please note this makes no allowance for deflection.

H-Series Information Sheet

H-Series User Guide

Supplementary equipment and alternative bracing systems

We can help with your next project.

Our team is friendly, knowledgeable and ready to consult. We offer no-obligation site visits, fast delivery and competitive rates. Simply fill in the form and we'll be in touch.

You can also give us a call at any time.