Infrastructure projects are evolving. Teams need broadband and telecom solutions that can deploy quickly, minimize disruption, and leave room for what comes next.
That’s why microduct conduit is gaining traction across the U.S., supporting faster, more scalable builds. In 2024, North America led global microduct demand at $1.2 billion, with growth fueled by investments in broadband access, smart cities, and data centers.
Below, we break down the top infrastructure applications for microduct and why it’s becoming a preferred choice across industries.
Microduct for FTTX and Rural Broadband Expansion
The demand for broadband is accelerating across the U.S., especially in rural and suburban communities. With more funding aimed at closing the digital divide, providers are under pressure to deploy fiber networks quickly and affordably.
Traditional conduit systems often involve heavy excavation or costly rework during upgrades. Microduct offers a more efficient approach, especially when paired with low-impact trenching methods.
It allows fiber to be deployed without disrupting existing infrastructure. Once installed, teams can add new fiber lines in the future without digging again, making it ideal for staged rollouts.
Fiber to the x (FTTX) remains one of the top applications for microduct, referring to various broadband architectures that extend fiber to homes, businesses, or other endpoints. This approach supports fast, scalable broadband connections for residential and municipal users.
As demand for high-speed access grows, microduct helps providers expand service faster while controlling long-term costs.
Microduct for Scalable Data Center Connectivity
The rapid growth of AI, cloud computing, and machine learning is transforming data infrastructure. Operators are scaling data centers faster than ever and need fiber systems that can keep up without adding complexity.
Microduct supports both intra-campus and inter-campus builds. It enables high-bandwidth connections between servers, storage, and switches without requiring large cable vaults or disruptive construction.
Its compact design allows for long, continuous runs with fewer closures, helping teams maximize space while minimizing labor. That flexibility is especially valuable in dense, high-performance environments.
As demands shift and workloads grow, microduct gives data centers a durable, scalable foundation for future-ready connectivity.
Microduct for Smart City and Intelligent Transport Networks
Smart city and transportation projects rely on real-time data to manage traffic, tolling, and public safety systems. As these networks expand, cities need infrastructure that installs easily in tight spaces and supports future upgrades.
Microduct enables fast, stable communication between connected systems. Its compact size fits within narrow utility corridors, and its flexible layout reduces reroutes and installation delays.
These advantages make microduct especially useful in dense, utility-heavy environments where space and time are limited.
With national initiatives driving investment in smart infrastructure, microduct provides a strong foundation for the connected cities of tomorrow.
Microduct for Telecom Backbone and 5G Rollouts
Telecom networks are expanding rapidly to meet rising demand for 5G coverage and fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) service. Providers need infrastructure that can scale with minimal disruption and adapt to evolving network requirements.
Microduct offers a modular conduit system that supports new line additions without rebuilding from scratch. It enables smoother underground deployment and is especially effective in dense urban areas and along edge networks.
Installation methods like microtrenching reduce surface restoration and speed up rollout timelines. These advantages make microduct well suited for phased builds and accelerated service expansion.
As telecom providers race to extend connectivity, microduct delivers the flexibility and efficiency needed to keep up.
Microduct for Utility Upgrades and Critical Infrastructure
Utilities and critical infrastructure providers face increasing pressure to improve reliability while upgrading aging networks. As more systems move underground, teams need solutions that protect essential cables without adding installation complexity.
Microduct provides durable, space-efficient protection for power, control, and communication lines. It installs easily in both dense corridors and remote service areas, minimizing disruption across varied job sites.
Its compact structure helps reduce environmental exposure and long-term maintenance needs. Microduct also supports a wide range of applications, including grid communications, substation automation, and industrial controls.
For infrastructure that can’t afford failure, microduct offers a practical and resilient path forward.
Why Microduct Is a Smarter Long-Term Infrastructure Investment
Microduct is not limited to a single use case. It’s built to support a wide range of infrastructure at every stage of the build. It reduces overall installation time, lowers restoration costs, and simplifies future expansion across sectors.
As infrastructure continues to evolve, microduct helps teams meet today’s demands while preparing for what’s next.
Atkore Micro-Path™ is a U.S.-manufactured microduct system designed to support the demands of modern infrastructure. It’s made from durable HDPE and built for flexibility in the field.
Micro-Path™ is available in a range of sizes and bundled configurations. It works for both new installations and network upgrades across broadband, telecom, and utility projects.
Learn how Atkore Micro-Path™ can support your next infrastructure project.