Modern businesses depend on high-speed internet connections to stay competitive, but installing fiber optic networks using traditional methods can be disruptive, time-consuming, and costly. Luckily, micro trenching has emerged as an innovative solution. In this blog, we'll explain what micro trenching is, its benefits, and best practices for ensuring a smooth implementation.
Micro trenching is a technique for installing fiber optic cables that offers a less invasive alternative to traditional trenching methods.
Unlike conventional approaches that require digging deep, wide trenches, micro trenching involves creating narrow, shallow cuts in the road surface or sidewalk. These cuts are typically less than two inches wide and only up to 12 inches deep, which means businesses can deploy fiber cables with minimal disruption to the surrounding infrastructure.
Following best practices in micro trenching can maximize the longevity of your fiber optic network installation. Here are seven tips for a successful micro trench deployment:
Before beginning a micro trenching project, research your target municipality's specific rules and regulations. Identify mandated trench locations, such as along the center line of the road or near curb seams, and keep in mind that some areas may not allow this construction due to the shallow nature of micro trenches.
Obtain all required permissions and permits well in advance to minimize disruptions and keep the project running smoothly. Allow ample time for regulatory review and approval processes, and be prepared to address any municipal concerns about the micro trenching method.
Proper planning is crucial for successful micro trenching. Conduct comprehensive surveys of the installation area and identify all existing underground services, then create detailed maps to guide your micro trenching team.
Clearly mark your intended trench path on the road or sidewalk surface, as your team will use these markings as a guide to ensure straight, consistent cuts. You'll also need to consider any obstacles or turns that may require special attention during the trenching process to avoid delays after installation begins.
Micro trenching differs significantly from traditional trenching methods, so using specialized equipment is essential. When choosing your cutter, consider your desired micro trench width and depth along with factors like road material, project distance, and required speed.
To maintain a safe and effective operation, provide thorough training for anyone operating the micro trench cutter. Enforce strict safety protocols and regularly inspect and maintain equipment to ensure optimal performance.
Trenching machines tend to use sweeping cuts rather than tight corners, so plan accordingly when navigating corners and intersections. Maintain a minimum bend radius of six inches to prevent duct kinking. Additionally, you can use 45-degree cuts to connect intersecting 90-degree paths to help relieve pressure on the microduct. Continuously monitor trench depth and make adjustments as needed to avoid creating bind points that could damage the duct.
When laying the microduct, place each duct separately to avoid overlap. Use a blunt tool to position the duct without causing damage, and secure both ends where they terminate.
If the microduct remains twisted from the spool, straighten it by twisting in the opposite direction. At least one of the microducts (typically the uppermost one) should have a tone wire to make it easy to locate after backfilling.
Selecting microducts that can withstand high backfill temperatures (up to 400°F) can help you ensure long-term reliability. Consider the type of backfill media you'll be using – such as hot polymer, elastomer, or grout – and confirm that your microducts are compatible with these materials. The ducts must be able to cope with the potentially high temperatures of the restorative material while maintaining their structural integrity.
Before installing the fiber optic cables, remove all debris from the trench using high-pressure air or water. You'll also need to smooth any jagged or sharp edges, which can cause the microduct to bind during frosts and impact service connectivity.
If necessary, add a layer of sand to even out the bottom of the trench. Compact the sand to provide a stable base for the microduct, ensuring a minimum sand depth of 1 inch for adequate protection.
Micro trenching is transforming the way enterprises approach fiber optic network installation. By offering a less disruptive, more cost-effective, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional trenching methods, micro trenching is paving the way for faster and more efficient network deployments.
At TailWind, we know how challenging it can be to manage enterprise IT projects like fiber installation across multiple locations. We take a hands-on, boots-on-the-ground approach to project management support, working directly with your team to coordinate and manage every phase of your network project.
Reach out to the TailWind team today to learn more about how we can streamline your next IT project.