When we think about bridges, road networks, ports, and utility frameworks, we often focus on the large-scale construction projects — but it’s the durable, precisely manufactured components within them that keep everything running. Iron castings are some of the most vital, hidden contributors to national infrastructure. They are strong, reliable, and built to endure.
At Fowler & Holden, we supply infrastructure castings UK-wide, supporting public works, highways, marine developments, and utilities with durable solutions that meet critical performance and compliance standards.
Where Iron Castings Are Used in Infrastructure
Iron castings are everywhere in UK infrastructure. Because they offer a unique combination of compressive strength, corrosion resistance, and longevity, they are often used in applications that need to last decades — even under constant load or environmental exposure.
Common use cases include:
- Bridge drainage systems and cast gratings
- Manhole frames and covers
- Utility chamber components
- Marine and coastal wall fittings
- Support brackets and covers in transport infrastructure
- Anchor points and cable guides in civil engineering projects
We work closely with contractors, councils, and Tier 1 suppliers to deliver high-quality iron castings that integrate directly into national and regional infrastructure programmes.
Why UK-Made Matters
Sourcing castings from a UK supplier like Fowler & Holden brings several key advantages:
Compliance & Certification
Our FastFlow drainage system is fully EN1433 certified — meeting the strictest performance and safety standards required in civil engineering works.
Shorter Lead Times
We operate onshore, which means faster delivery, no customs delays, and easier communication. We also offer just-in-time production for projects with phased installation.
Consistency & Quality
With casting, machining, and finishing under one roof, we maintain tight control over every component we produce. This consistency supports long-term projects with repeat requirements.
Lower Carbon Footprint
Local sourcing helps reduce transportation emissions and supports the government’s push for sustainable, net-zero supply chains.
Case Study – Supporting UK Bridge Infrastructure
Fowler & Holden’s FastFlow bridge drainage components have been used on dozens of bridge projects across the UK. Designed to withstand heavy vehicle loads and rapid water run-off, the system is cast to tight tolerances and installed with minimal disruption.
Recent deployments include:
- Highway drainage on elevated roadways
- Deck drainage for new rail overpasses
- Replacement drainage for historic bridges
- Heavy-duty gratings for coastal bridges subject to salt exposure
Our team works closely with engineers to tailor specifications, adjust flow rates, and meet installation schedules.
Public Works and Utilities Applications
Beyond transport, our castings also play a key role in public works and utility infrastructure. Examples include:
- Custom lids and access covers for water treatment plants
- Valve chamber castings for gas and water systems
- Brackets and fixings for telecoms infrastructure
- Corrosion-resistant castings for coastal or wetland zones
Each project has different mechanical, chemical, or environmental demands — and we support this with the right iron grade, machining spec, and finish.
A Foundry That Understands Infrastructure Needs
We don’t just make castings — we make them work for contractors, consultants, and civil engineers who need more than just a component.
Working with Fowler & Holden means:
- Expert consultation from day one
- Engineering support to optimise performance and fit
- In-house pattern making, casting, and machining
- Full documentation and traceability
- Short-run and high-volume capability
We’re also happy to work from your existing drawings, modify past components, or reverse engineer legacy parts from physical samples.
FAQs
Q1: What infrastructure uses iron castings?
Bridges, roads, drainage, utility systems, and marine developments all use iron castings for strength, durability, and fit-for-purpose design.
Q2: Are your castings EN1433 certified?
Yes — our FastFlow drainage system is EN1433 certified, meeting highway drainage standards for load, flow, and compliance.
Q3: Can you meet civil engineering specs?
Absolutely. We manufacture to project-specific tolerances and can provide full documentation, including material certs and compliance records.
Q4: Do you supply drainage castings?
Yes — including gratings, channels, and support components for highways, bridges, and public works.
Q5: What industries do you serve?
We serve transport, infrastructure, utilities, marine, energy, and more — wherever industrial-grade iron castings are required.
Partner With a Foundry Built for UK Infrastructure
From drainage to durable utility components, Fowler & Holden delivers castings that keep infrastructure moving — above ground and below.
📞 +44 (0)1472 355 316
📧 info@fowlerandholden.co.uk
🌐 https://fowlerandholden.co.uk/
