Microducts - What Are They and What Are Their Applications?

Microducts are specialized tubes used to protect fiber optic cables in the ground, sewer systems, or micro-duct systems. Optical fibers that transmit light signals are highly sensitive to mechanical damage, making their protection crucial. Microducts provide protection against mechanical damage, moisture, and other external factors.

Types and Applications of Fiber Optic Microducts:

The price of fiber optic microducts depends on the chosen model. Poltel offers, among other options, thin-walled microducts. These are produced from primary polyethylene and find wide application in installations within secondary sewer systems and protective pipes. Characteristics of thin-walled microducts for fiber optics include:

• Variants with an internal smooth or grooved surface,
• Coating with a low friction coefficient,
• High resistance to pressure,
• Availability in different colors, including transparent,
• Availability with a pilot.

Types of Microducts:

Various types of microducts are available on the market, differing in diameter, wall thickness, and color, depending on the application. Microducts can be categorized into two main types: made of PE (polyethylene) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Polyethylene microducts are more flexible and durable, while PVC microducts are more resistant to external factors.

Thick-walled fiber optic microducts are also produced from primary polyethylene. They can be buried directly in the ground and used in installations running in secondary or primary sewer systems. They feature a special layer that reduces internal friction. Additionally, they are resistant to temperature variations and impermeable to moisture, retaining flexibility and structural integrity.

Fiber optic microducts for indoor use are made from non-flammable material that does not emit toxic halogen compounds when in contact with fire. Their special low-friction construction facilitates safe installation. They are pressure-resistant and available in white.

Advantages of Using Fiber Optic Microducts:

Using microducts provides several benefits:

1. Protection: Microducts shield fiber optic cables from mechanical damage, moisture, and UV radiation, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the cables.

2. Ease of Installation: Microducts make cable installation easier and faster, contributing to increased efficiency in the installation process.

3. Customization: Microducts are available in various diameters and wall thicknesses, allowing for easy adaptation to specific needs.

Recommendations for Microduct Installation:

1. Careful Planning: Plan the microduct laying route meticulously, considering obstacles and turns.

2. Use of Specialized Tools: Employ dedicated tools such as microduct scissors and crimping tools for precise cutting and connecting of microducts. Special accessories can significantly facilitate the work.

3. Regular Quality Checks: Regularly inspect the quality of connections and avoid excessive stretching of microducts to ensure the effectiveness and durability of the system.

In summary, microducts are essential for installers and operators of fiber optic networks. They effectively protect cables from mechanical damage and external factors, simplify the cable installation process, and contribute to overall system efficiency. Various types of microducts are available, allowing for customization to individual needs. The use of microducts facilitates cable installation and enhances work efficiency.