Durable Channel Drain Systems for Reliable Water Management and Drainage Solutions
Welcome to the ACO Drain range – Efficient and Stylish Drainage Solutions
At ACO, we specialise in engineered drain channel systems designed to manage water efficiently while complementing your project’s design.
From residential driveways to large commercial projects, our drain channels deliver superior water management without compromising aesthetics.
With carefully engineered designs, our drain channels integrate seamlessly with your surroundings, giving your outdoor spaces a modern, clean look.
What is a Drain Channel System?
A drain channel system, sometimes called a linear or trench drain, is a long, narrow drainage solution designed to capture and direct water over a linear path.
Unlike traditional point drains, which collect water from a single location, drain channels manage high volumes of water along their entire length, reducing the risk of pooling and flooding.
Our drain channels are built with durable grates and corrosion-resistant materials, ensuring they withstand heavy use while remaining easy to maintain.
Benefits of Choosing a Drain Channel System
Flexible Installation Options
Drain channels can be installed along building perimeters, through paved areas, or integrated into landscaped spaces. This versatility allows architects, builders, and designers to manage water effectively while maintaining full control over the visual and functional integration of the system.
Simplified Installation
With a single-direction slope engineered into the system, drain channels reduce the complexity of grading and slope calculations. This design allows for faster and more consistent installation, even on larger or more intricate projects.
Optimised Water Flow
Drain channels collect water continuously along the channel length, reducing the chance of localized blockages and improving overall flow during peak rainfall. The result is reliable drainage for high-traffic areas or regions prone to heavy storms.
Easy Maintenance
Most drain channels come with removable grates, allowing quick access to the channel for inspection, cleaning, and upkeep. This ensures long-term functionality with minimal disruption to surrounding areas.
Applications – Driveways, Patios, and Commercial Spaces
Drain channels are suitable for a wide range of applications:
Residential: Driveways, patios, pool surrounds, and gardens.
Commercial: Shopping centres, office complexes, public parks, and pedestrian zones.
Industrial: Warehouses, factories, and loading zones.
Their high water-handling capacity makes drain channels ideal for any project that demands efficient and reliable drainage.
Trust ACO Drain® for Your Drain Channel Needs
ACO Drain® is committed to providing engineered drainage solutions built for real-world conditions.
Unlike generic off-the-shelf drains, our channel systems are manufactured from high-quality materials designed for durability and longevity.
We also offer slot drains and strip drain systems, giving builders and designers complete control over water management across any project.
Explore our product range to see how ACO Drain® can elevate your next project. For any questions, our expert team is ready to assist.
Drain Channels – Frequently Asked Questions
What is a drain channel system and how does it work?
A drain channel system, or linear drain, is a long, narrow trench that captures surface water through a grate. The water is guided along the channel’s slope to an outlet, providing efficient drainage and reducing surface pooling. Ideal for driveways, patios, and commercial areas, drain channels manage water effectively over large surfaces.
How does installing a drain channel differ from traditional drains?
Traditional point drains are installed at a single location, requiring water to flow toward them. Drain channels span an area linearly, with a unidirectional slope designed to capture water along the entire system. This simplifies installation and provides consistent drainage across long surfaces.
Are drain channels suitable for commercial or high-traffic areas?
Yes. Drain channels are engineered to handle heavy foot and vehicle traffic, making them suitable for commercial, industrial, and public spaces. Their durable grates and high-capacity design ensure they function reliably even in demanding conditions.
How do drain channels improve overall water management?
With their linear design, drain channels collect water over a large surface area, directing it efficiently toward the outlet. This prevents pooling and flooding, ensures smooth water flow, and enhances the overall drainage performance of your project.
Browse our product range and see how ACO can transform your space. For any queries, feel free to contact our team.
Let’s bring your vision to life with the ACO Drain range, your trusted channel drain solution.
Grated Channel Drain – Frequently Asked Questions
What is a grated channel drain system and how does it work?
A grated channel drain system, also known as a trench drain, is designed to manage water overflows in outdoor spaces. It consists of a long, narrow channel covered by a grate. Water flows into the drain through the grates and is guided by the channel’s slight slope towards an outlet, ensuring effective and efficient drainage. These systems are particularly useful in areas that require high-capacity drainage, such as driveways, patios, and commercial properties.
How does the installation process of a grated channel drain differ from a traditional outdoor drain?
The installation process of a grated channel drain differs primarily in its placement and the required landscaping slope. Unlike traditional outdoor drains typically positioned in the center of the area, a grated channel drain spans the length or width of the area and requires a unidirectional slope. The channel is usually installed along an edge or wall, with the surrounding ground sloping towards it. This design simplifies the installation process, making grated channel drains an efficient drainage solution for various outdoor spaces.
Are grated channel drains suitable for commercial applications?
Absolutely, grated channel drains are highly suitable for commercial applications. Their high-capacity design is ideal for managing substantial water flow, which is often found in commercial settings such as parking lots, sidewalks, and public spaces. Additionally, the robust grates made from stainless steel can withstand heavy foot and vehicle traffic. With various grate styles available, our grated channel drains also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of commercial spaces, making them a practical and attractive drainage solution.
How can grated channel drains improve water flow?
Grated channel drains can significantly enhance water flow due to their long, linear design. The grates allow water to enter the channel from a large surface area, facilitating quick water intake. Inside the drain, the streamlined and continuous channel design guides the water effectively towards the outlet, preventing water pooling and enhancing overall drainage efficiency.
ACO Drain - commercial trench drains
General purpose, steel edge, modular trench system in 100mm, 200mm & 300mm internal widths
ACO Infrastructure - civil engineering drains for roads, airports, light rail and ports
A heavy duty modular trench drain made from polymer concrete. Each channel unit has a cast-in ductile iron wearing edge rail which provides support for trafficable wheel loads up to 8 tonnes.
ACO Self - residential drains
Lightweight, strong, high drainage capacity.
ACO GALALINE is sold exclusively through:







A one piece heavy duty modular trench drain made from polymer concrete comprising an integrally cast channel and batter with inlets for continuous drainage.
A one piece heavy duty modular trench drain made from polymer concrete for heavy duty areas in fast moving traffic.
A heavy duty slot drainage system made from lightweight, polyethylene (PE). A water tight seal is provided by a push fit connection between each 2 metre long unit.
TramDrain is a drainage system designed to provide efficient surface water drainage to the grooved rail and track slab.
Durable polymer concrete trench drains
Robust plastic trench drains
Compliant to F1, MLB, NFL, NCAA, and Olympic venues.




