The Nano Trench process is patented by several specific features that distinguish it from other trenching methods.
Patented features
- T-shaped trench: The trench is cut into a T-shape using a special cutting wheel, which allows for better interlocking and stability of the backfill material.
- Serrated sides: The sides of the trench are serrated, which ensures a better connection between the backfill material and the existing asphalt.
- Use of Epoxy: An epoxy resin-based material specifically used for trench backfilling
- Clean and precise cutting: A mounted vacuum cleaner ensures that the trench remains free of dirt and stones.
- Heating element for the flanks: A heating element ensures that the flanks of the trench are clean and free of residues.
- Controlled laying of the mini-ducts: The mini-ducts are laid in a controlled manner and embedded in a special sand or granulate.
Benefits of Nano Trenching
- Economics: More cost effective as it requires less material and labor.
- Minimal traffic disruption: One lane always remains accessible.
- No damage to the asphalt base: Does not penetrate the asphalt surface.
- High adhesion and stability: The special shape of the trench ensures better adhesion of the filling material.
- Easy retrofitting: Defective Mini-Ducts can be easily replaced.
- Environmentally friendly: Less resource consumption and lower environmental impact.
Comparison to micro trenching
- T-Channel Method: No direct pressure on the Mini Ducts and the fiber optic cable.
- Epoxy filler material: More elastic and better than rigid asphalt.
- Less susceptible to weather: Longer lasting and protects the mini-ducts and fiber optic cables.
Properties of Epoxy
- Solvent-free: 2-component epoxy resin mortar without solvents.
- High adhesive tensile strength: over 1.5 N/mm².
- Mixing ratio: 20 kg base material and 600 ml hardener.
- Tensile strength: Average 9.8 N/mm².
- Low temperature resistance: Good resistance to low temperatures.
- Polishing resistance: Constant adhesion over a high number of polishing cycles.
Summary Epoxy
- Epoxy demonstrates higher tensile strength, better resistance to low temperatures and polishing stress, and a more elastic response to loads compared to conventional asphalt
- Polishing resistance test results
- The adhesion of Epoxy remained constant over the entire number of polishing cycles.
Other benefits of Nano Trenching
- Fewer traffic interruptions: One lane always remains passable.
- No damage to the asphalt surface: Prevents cavities under the asphalt.
- Cleaner and safer trench: Better quality of backfilling.
- Less material consumption: reducing costs and increasing efficiency.
- Greater stability: Better interlocking of the backfill material
- Flexibility and adaptability: Can be used in various areas.
- Less environmental impact: more ecological and less waste.
- Easy retrofitting: Defective mini-ducts can be easily repaired.
Conclusion
Nano Trenching is a more efficient, cost-effective and environmentally friendly method compared to traditional Micro Trenching techniques.