microtrench

A microtrench is a narrow trench, typically less than 10 centimeters wide, excavated in pavement or soil. These trenches are commonly used for the installation of fiber optic cables, conduits, and other underground utilities with minimal disruption. The shallow depth and narrow width of microtrenches differentiate them from traditional, larger trenches. Specialized machinery, often referred to as microtrenching machines or diamond wheel cutters, is employed to create these precise excavations. The process typically involves cutting a slot in the pavement, removing the debris, installing the utility, and then backfilling the trench with a specialized grout or material. This method offers several advantages, including reduced excavation volume, faster installation times, and less traffic disruption compared to conventional trenching. Microtrenching is particularly advantageous in urban environments where minimizing surface disturbance is crucial. The choice of backfill material is important to ensure structural integrity and prevent future cracking of the pavement surface. Applications extend beyond telecommunications to include power cables and sensor networks.