US Patent 8727659 Manhole cover with insert

A manhole cover includes a cover panel formed from a first material, which may be a generally lightweight material, and an insert formed within a cutout in the first material. The insert may be formed from a higher strength material and may include one or more openings for receiving conventional cover removal tools. In one embodiment, the manhole cover includes a cover panel having a peripheral edge and defining a diameter, and further defining an opening or cutout that is spaced from the peripheral edge. The insert is disposed in the opening. The insert may include an upper surface and a lower surface opposite the upper surface, the insert defining first and second openings in the upper surface, with the first opening shaped to receive a first removal tool and the second opening shaped to receive a second removal tool.