As fiber optic and utility duct networks expand, protecting your infrastructure from gas, water, and dust ingress is more critical than ever. One of the most effective solutions on the market is the Inflatable Duct Seal, widely used in telecom, FTTH, data centers, and civil ducting projects. While CommScope’s TDUX system has long been a standard, our Sistem Pengedap Salur Kembung (IDSS) provides a high-quality, cost-effective alternative—with comparable performance at a significantly more affordable price.
In this article, we’ll explore the function and importance of inflatable duct seals, the features of our IDSS product, how it compares to TDUX, and why our solution is the ideal choice for installers, contractors, and network engineers.
Table of contents
- What is an Inflatable Duct Seal?
- Where Are Inflatable Duct Seals Used?
- Why Choose Our Inflatable Duct Seal System (IDSS)?
- How Inflatable Duct Seal Works: Step-by-Step Installation
- Specifications of Our Inflatable Duct Seal
- Key Applications of Inflatable Duct Seal by Industry
- Tips for Choosing the Right Inflatable Duct Seal
- FAQs: Inflatable Duct Seal Systems
- Final Thoughts
What is an Inflatable Duct Seal?
An Inflatable Duct Seal is a flexible sealing solution designed to close off empty space in conduit systems and prevent the passage of air, gas, water, and other contaminants. It is especially useful in scenarios where traditional mechanical or foam-based sealing methods are not ideal due to space constraints or irregular duct configurations.
The seal consists of an inflatable bladder that expands inside the duct when filled with air, creating a tight, secure seal around the cable or pipe. This prevents:
- Water ingress
- Gas leaks
- Pest intrusion
- Dust contamination
- Pressure loss in pressurized networks
Where Are Inflatable Duct Seals Used?
Inflatable duct seals are commonly deployed in:
- Telecommunications and FTTH networks
- Underground duct banks
- Substations and data centers
- Manholes and handholes
- Utility corridors (gas, water, power)
They are particularly valuable for:
- Sealing multi-way ducts with multiple cable types
- Retrofitting existing ducts
- Areas with difficult access or irregular duct shapes
Why Choose Our Inflatable Duct Seal System (IDSS)?
Our Sistem Pengedap Salur Kembung (IDSS) offers all the essential features of the TDUX system, but with greater cost efficiency. Here’s what makes our system stand out:
1. High Sealing Performance
- Airtight and watertight up to 0.5 bar pressure
- Withstands flooding and gas ingress in ducts and handholes
- Tested to IP68 sealing standards for telecom applications
2. Wide Duct & Cable Compatibility
- Available for duct sizes from 20 mm to 160 mm
- Can accommodate single or multiple cables
- Flexible construction adapts to varied duct shapes and conditions
3. Fast & Tool-Free Installation
- Inflated using a standard air pump or cartridge
- Takes just 1–2 minutes to install
- Ideal for retrofits and tight-access scenarios
4. Durable, Long-Lasting Materials
- Constructed from high-grade, UV- and chemical-resistant elastomers
- Resistant to pressure, temperature fluctuations, and vibration
- Operating temperature: –30°C to +70°C
5. Cost Advantage
- Delivers the same performance as CommScope TDUX
- Significantly lower cost, especially for large-scale deployments
- Available for bulk purchasing and OEM labeling
6. Environmentally Friendly
- Reusable and recyclable components
- No chemical foams or sealants used
- Contributes to green construction goals
How Inflatable Duct Seal Works: Step-by-Step Installation
- Prepare the Duct: Clean the interior of the duct and position the cable or pipe.
- Insert the Deflated Seal: Slide the IDSS unit into place.
- Inflate: Use a hand pump, foot pump, or compressed air tool to inflate the bladder.
- Verify Seal: Check pressure indicator (if applicable) to ensure a proper seal.
- Close Duct Access: Once sealed, ducts can be buried or enclosed.
No adhesives, foams, or mechanical parts are needed.
Specifications of Our Inflatable Duct Seal
| Product Model | Duct Outer Diameter（Ф mm） | How to use（Suitable for 1 to 4 Cables） | |
| Product Dimensions | Cable Diameter（Ф mm） | ||
| IDSS一40 | 40 | 120×126 | 23～7.5 |
| IDSS一50 | 50 | 120×180 | 45.5～7.5 |
| IDSS一63 | 63 | 120×230 | 46.5～7.5 |
| IDSS一75 | 75 | 120×280 | 48.5～8 |
| IDSS一90 | 90 | 120×330 | 64～10.5 |
| IDSS一110 | 110 | 120×400 | 84.9～12.9 |
| IDSS一125 | 125 | 120×450 | 100～35 |
| IDSS一160 | 160 | 140×560 | 129～40 |
| IDSS一180 | 180 | 140×650 | 154～48 |
| IDSS一200 | 200 | 140×700 | 178～56 |
| IDSS一250 | 250 | 160×900 | 200～70 |
| IDSS一300 | 300 | 180×1040 | 240～95 |
Key Applications of Inflatable Duct Seal by Industry
Telecom & FTTH:
- Prevents moisture intrusion in fiber drop ducts
- Ideal for outdoor cabinets and underground fiber vaults
Electrical Utilities:
- Protects against water/gas in high-voltage duct banks
- Maintains pressurization in critical raceways
Data Centers:
- Air containment in subfloor cabling routes
- Maintains fire-rated duct sealing standards
Infrastructure & Civil Works:
- Temporary or permanent duct sealing during construction
- Seals around PVC, HDPE, or metal ducting
Tips for Choosing the Right Inflatable Duct Seal
- Measure duct inner diameter (ID) and cable outer diameter (OD)
- Choose a seal model that supports a tight fit around cable bundle
- Consider working pressure and environmental exposure
- Select seals with reuse option for maintenance-heavy networks
Need help sizing the right seal? Our technical team offers free consultation based on your project specs.
FAQs: Inflatable Duct Seal Systems
1. What is the purpose of an inflatable duct seal?
To block air, gas, water, dust, and pest ingress into empty or cable-filled ducts using an air-inflated bladder system.
2. How does your IDSS compare to CommScope TDUX?
It offers comparable sealing performance and duct compatibility at a significantly lower cost, with optional reuse.
3. Can IDSS be reused?
Yes. Our seals are designed for multiple inflation cycles and can be deflated and reused in maintenance or retrofit situations.
4. How long does it last?
10–20 years in underground conditions, depending on UV, temperature, and pressure exposure.
5. Do I need tools to install it?
Only a standard hand or foot pump. No adhesives, foams, or hardware needed.
6. Is it suitable for ducts with multiple cables?
Yes. Our seals conform to the space around multiple cables in a single duct.
7. Can it withstand flooding?
Yes. IDSS is rated IP68 and tested for sealing in submerged environments.
8. Is it approved for telecom use?
Yes. Our duct seals meet industry standards including IP68, RoHS, and ISO 9001.
9. Where can I buy the IDSS Inflatable Duct Seal?
Available through our global distributors, OEM partners, and directly from our website.
10. Do you offer custom sizes?
Yes. We provide OEM and private-labeled custom-sized seals upon request.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Inflatable Duct Seal is crucial for long-term reliability of your underground fiber and utility infrastructure. While CommScope’s TDUX is a well-established solution, our IDSS Inflatable Duct Sealing System delivers the same airtight, watertight performance—at a more affordable price point.
Whether you’re sealing FTTH drop ducts, electrical conduit, or utility passages, our system provides easy installation, long-term durability, and serious cost savings. It’s the smart choice for modern networks looking to balance performance with budget.
Get in touch today for product samples, technical datasheets, and bulk pricing.