Override Installations

For underground duct and conduit that is at or near capacity with installed cables, an alternative to removing cables in order to free up conduit space is to utilize the extra space by overriding the existing cable in the conduit with MicroDucts.

Applications

Smart Cities

Cellular / DAS

Long Haul

OVERRIDE PROCESS

Based on the available space, one or more MicroDucts can be rodded/pulled into the occupied duct or can be placed using modified cable air-jetting systems. Then MicroCables can be air-jetted into the MicroDucts as required.

Set-Up Configuration

To create additional bandwidth in congested areas, one or more MicroDucts can be pressurized and air-jetted over existing cables. The newly placed pathways can accommodate new fiber cables to expand network capacity.

Y-block Set-Up

A special "Y-block" is used to place the MicroDucts inside the conduit placed underground, "over" the existing cables. With careful set-up, MicroDucts can be installed without damage to the existing cable.

MicroDuct Reel Placement

When setting up for an Override, MicroDuct reels can be placed in tandem behind the jetting equipment for efficient installation.

Speed of Installation

Depending on the route and condition of the existing conduit, the pressurized MicroDucts can be placed quickly and efficiently.

Optimizing Jetting Equipment

Set-up is the most challenging step in performing an Override. Special seals, y-blocks, and parts are needed based on the size of the conduit and MicroDucts being installed.

OVERRIDE PULL-IN METHOD FOR OLD CONDUIT SYSTEMS

When larger, older conduits – such as PVC and terra cotta types – are occupied with one or more cables but have sufficient space to house additional MicroDucts, then individual or bundled MicroDucts can be pulled in using conventional rodding processes in conjunction with pull ropes or tapes to increase the cable density capacity of the occupied duct or conduit. A pulling swivel and staggered wire bridle sling are attached to self-threading pulling eyes are connected to each individual MicroDuct.

AIR JETTED INSTALLATION METHOD

In situations where typically 2” and smaller HDPE conduit housing a single optical fiber cable are involved, one or more appropriately sized MicroDucts can be air jetted into the occupied duct using a specialized Y-Block Adapter to isolate and seal off the current cable in the duct. Then, the additional MicroDuct(s) can be placed in the duct using compressed air and tractor type air jetting equipment fitted with multi-groove belts to install multiple MicroDucts. When simultaneously installing more than one MicroDuct, it is important that the MicroDuct ends are free and not joined or connected together.

Download the OverRides & Subdividing Conduits Brochure

Recommended products

FuturePath

MicroDuct is bundled into an easy-to-handle unit known as FuturePath. FuturePath can be installed just like standard duct: open trench, aerial, directional drilled, plowed, or pulled into an existing conduit. When branching individual MicroDucts, there is no need for a special branching box. No special tools or equipment are required for installation.

MicroDucts HDPE

MicroDucts are a great way of getting the most versatility out of your current empty duct system. Why install one fiber cable when you could install multiple MicroDucts? Each MicroDuct is a pathway for fiber now or in the future. Expand your network as your needs require.