Today’s connected world has one non-negotiable demand: network reliability.
Yet, as demand grows, so does the risk to the network cable infrastructure that keeps us connected. Extreme weather, accidental interference, and physical damage all threaten cable networks, leaving communities and businesses vulnerable to outages and degraded performance.
The impact of severe weather alone is hard to ignore. Across North America, wind, fire, and ice storms regularly knock down poles and cut off service to entire communities, resulting in millions of dollars in lost revenue and extensive repair efforts. Rising temperatures in places like Texas have also spurred calls to bury infrastructure for better protection, while human error, such as accidental cable cuts by construction equipment, continues to cause outages, as seen in recent incidents in Alaska.
Network cables are up against many challenges. But by understanding these risks and adopting resilient solutions, like cable-in-conduit systems, we can build a more reliable, secure, and uninterrupted digital future.
Network Cable Conduit Challenges
Network infrastructure faces constant physical threats, from construction mishaps to natural disasters and accidental or intentional damage. With today’s increased connectivity demands, even brief interruptions can disrupt business operations, communication, and essential services.
Construction activities are a common source of network issues, as excavation or heavy equipment can accidentally cut cables, bringing networks down. Above-ground cables are also highly vulnerable to extreme weather events like hurricanes and tornadoes, which can tear down poles and cables, leaving networks offline. Additionally, high-traffic areas expose cables to accidental damage and vandalism, further jeopardizing network stability.
Given these physical threats, protective measures are vital for reliable infrastructure. For network providers, investing in durable solutions supports long-term stability and minimizes costly outages, helping to keep essential services connected even in challenging environments.
The Benefits of Underground Cable Installations
For true resilience, many providers are looking underground. While above-ground cables remain vulnerable to environmental threats, underground installations offer a powerful solution with clear benefits. Here’s how going underground provides a powerful defense with minimal upkeep and substantial cost savings over time.
Proof Point 1 - Engineered to Withstand Extreme Weather
CHALLENGE: Hurricanes, fires, and ice storms can tear through above-ground cables, disrupting connectivity and halting operations.
SOLUTION: Underground cables remain safely shielded from extreme weather, allowing networks to stay up and running even when conditions get rough.
BENEFIT: For regions that see frequent storms or temperature extremes, underground installations provide the durability needed to weather the elements with confidence.
Proof Point 2 - Engineered for Lower Maintenance
CHALLENGE: Aerial cables face constant environmental exposure, which leads to frequent repairs and high maintenance costs.
SOLUTION: With underground installations, cables are less exposed to harsh conditions, reducing the wear and tear that often leads to downtime.
BENEFIT: By minimizing maintenance demands, underground cables keep networks more stable and cost-effective, giving operators one less thing to worry about.
Proof Point 3 - Engineered for Long-Term Savings
CHALLENGE: Aerial installations may be cheaper upfront but often require significant upkeep and repair, leading to higher costs over time.
SOLUTION: Underground installations, while initially more expensive, reduce future expenses by cutting down on disruptions and repair needs.
BENEFIT: In the long run, underground cables lower the total cost of ownership, making them a smart investment for projects that prioritize durability and reliability.
When it comes to keeping networks secure and operational, underground installations deliver lasting value for secure, reliable networks. However, in some environments, even greater protection is needed to fully safeguard cables from wear, interference, and damage.
Cable-in-Conduit: A Comprehensive Solution for Modern Infrastructure
For network projects requiring added durability, cable-in-conduit (CIC) offers a solution suited to modern power utility and broadband applications.
CIC protects network cables by encasing pre-installed cables within high-density polyethylene (HDPE) conduit, shielding them from environmental factors like weather, wear, and accidental damage. The design of CIC supports a range of project needs, including:
- Customizable options with pre-installed cables specific to project requirements
- Compatibility with various installation techniques, including trenching and horizontal directional drilling (HDD)
- Durability to withstand extreme environmental conditions
These features help reduce maintenance demands and support the long-term functionality of network infrastructure, making CIC a practical choice for projects where reliability and resilience are priorities.
Ready for a Solution That Protects and Performs?
At Atkore, our HDPE Cable-in-Conduit (CIC) is crafted to meet the demands of modern power utility and communication networks. Our conduit is manufactured to industry standards, including ASTM F-2160 and ASTM D-3350, and features permanent, customizable markings to support easy identification and compliance.
We understand that environments vary, which is why we provide options for standard or advanced UV protection for network cable conduit. This flexibility supports durability in outdoor installations, helping maintain structural integrity over time. Available in a range of colors, our CIC also allows for project-specific differentiation, making it adaptable to diverse installation needs.
Explore HDPE Cable-in-Conduit for your next power and communications project. Learn more about CIC applications, sizing, color specifications, and more by downloading our CIC Technical Guide.