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Optical fibre rolls are classified into many types, and each type differs in structure, performance, and application suitability.
SMF has a small core diameter (9 microns), allowing only one light mode to pass through. This property makes SMF ideal for long-distance transmission, as it greatly reduces signal attenuation and dispersion. This type of fibre optic cable roll transmits data over several kilometres and is utilised in telecommunications, internet infrastructure, and cable television systems.
Multi-mode fibre optic cable has a wider core (50-62.5 microns), allowing multiple light modes to pass through. It is suitable for shorter-distance applications (up to 600 metres), such as within-building networks and data centres. The larger core leads to modal dispersion, which limits the distance MMF can transmit signals compared to SMF. Nevertheless, this fibre optic cable is cheaper than SMF, making it more cost-effective for short-distance transmission.
Armoured fibre cables feature additional protective layers made of steel or other robust materials, providing extra protection in harsh environments and industrial applications. This type of optical fibre cable roll is ideal for outdoor use or where the cable must be buried under difficult conditions. It can also endure mechanical stresses, improving the cable's longevity and reliability.
Loose tube cables are designed for outdoor use, with fibres housed in plastic tubes (loose tubes) that allow for some movement. This structure helps fibres withstand environmental stresses, such as temperature changes and mechanical strains. The cables are ideal for installations requiring long-distance transmission while still withstanding outdoor conditions. They provide superior protection against environmental elements and are used widely in underground and aerial installations.
Ribbon fibre cables consist of many fibres arranged in a flat, ribbon-like structure. The compact design allows for efficient installation, particularly in high-density settings. It allows mass fusion splicing, reducing installation time and costs. This type of cable is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use and is commonly used in telecommunications networks requiring high capacity and reliability.
Optical fibre rolls are made to perform well and last long in transmission systems. These rolls are constructed from materials that promote durability, reliability, and optimal performance in their intended environments.
Optical fibre cables have different components made of unique materials for optimal functionality and durability.
Fibre core
The core of a fibre optic cable is made of glass or plastic, which is the medium for light transmission. Glass fibres are normally made of silica sand. This is because of its high purity and excellent light transmission capability. Plastic optical fibres (POF) use polymer fiber, which is more flexible and easy to handle, although with a lower transmission distance and speed.
Cladding
The fibre cladding is a glass or plastic layer surrounding the core, with a lower refractive index. This difference in refractive index creates a phenomenon called total internal reflection, allowing light signals to travel through the fibre with minimal loss. The materials used for cladding are normally silica or polymer, which work to maintain signal integrity by keeping the light within the core.
Protective buffer
A buffer layer surrounds the cladding and protects the fibre from moisture, physical damage, and environmental factors. This layer is made from plastic polymers such as polycarbonate or PVC. It separates the fibres in ribbon cables and enhances the cable's mechanical strength and durability.
Outer jacket
The outer jacket is made from durable materials, such as PVC, polyurethane (PU), and polyethylene (PE). This layer provides overall protection to the cable against environmental hazards, including moisture, chemicals, and extreme weather conditions. It also shields the cable from mechanical stresses, such as bending and crushing.
The durability of fibre optic rolls comes from the careful selection of both materials and structural designs that improve performance in varying conditions.
Weather-resistant outer jackets
For outdoor cables, weather-resistant materials like PE and PU are used for the outer jacket to protect the cable from UV radiation, water, and extreme temperatures. This kind of resistance ensures that the cables remain functional even under harsh weather conditions for several years. A fibre roll like this one can last between 15 and 20 years while still functioning optimally.
Armouring
Cables meant for industrial or hazardous environments often have armoured layers made from steel or other sturdy materials, increasing resistance to mechanical damage. So, these cables can withstand great physical impacts, enhancing their longevity and making them ideal for tough environments.
Strength member
Most fibre optic cables also contain central strength members (CSMs) made from materials like Kevlar or steel rods to increase tensile strength. This structure minimises cable breakage risks during installation and under constant tension during usage. A sturdy cable is less likely to suffer internal damage, maintaining signal integrity over time.
Moisture barriers
Many cables feature moisture barrier layers that prevent water and other liquids from reaching the fibre and damaging it. These barriers, typically made from aluminium foil or polyethylene, keep the fibres dry in wet conditions. This preservation helps maintain the fibre's structural integrity and optical performance for many years.
The following are the commercial applications of fibre optic cable rolls.
This is the most common field where optical fibre cables are extensively used. With their high-speed data transmission capabilities over long distances, they form the backbone of telephone, internet, and mobile communication networks. This capability improves bandwidth and reduces signal loss compared to other transmission mediums like copper wire.
Optical fibres connect servers, storage systems, and network devices in data centres to ensure high-speed data transfers over short and medium ranges. This arrangement supports cloud computing, big data analytics, and content delivery networks (CDNs). Moreover, using fibres helps improve data transfer rates, lower latency, and enhance security within the high-density environments of the data centres.
Cable rolls protect fibres from harsh environments like chemicals, heat, or electromagnetic interference (EMI). This structure keeps wires functional in manufacturing plants, oil and gas refineries, and other industrial sites. Fibre rolls allow reliable, long-distance communication between control systems, sensors, and machinery essential for real-time monitoring and automation in these operations.
Radio and television stations use fibre optics for live transmission. They transmit high-definition video and audio over long distances with minimal loss. These fibres have higher bandwidths than older transmission media, enabling the transfer of more information simultaneously, supporting the shift to high-definition (HD) and ultra-high-definition (UHD) broadcasting.
Video surveillance cameras and security sensors use fibre optic cables to transmit data securely over long distances. These fibres are immune to EMI and have better signal ranges, enabling real-time monitoring in commercial facilities like warehouses, retail stores, and public infrastructure. The cables also provide better durability and reliability for outdoor surveillance systems.
To choose the right fibre optic cable roll, the following factors should be considered.
Single-mode fibre optic cables are best where longer distances and higher bandwidth capacities are necessary. Multi-mode fibre optic cables suffice in shorter, lower-bandwidth areas. Buyers should assess the network's anticipated data traffic to determine bandwidth needs.
Loose tube or armoured fibre cables are ideal for outdoor use. They withstand environmental conditions safely. For the indoor environment, ribbon or multi-mode fibres are suitable. They are compact and easy to install in restricted spaces.
If the installation is likely to come into contact with chemicals, extreme temperatures, or physical impacts, go for armoured fibre cables. Want to install under discreet space environments? Fibres with a smaller core diameter, like ribbon cables, are the most suitable.
Ribbon fibre optic cables are preferred if mass fusion-splicing is required. This preference allows for quick installations. Conversely, standard multi-mode or single-mode fibres suffice when fusion-splicing is not needed.
Buyers should perform tensile-strength and impact-strength tests to assess the mechanical strength of the fibre optic rolls. Go for one with higher tensile strength to avoid cable breakage during installation.
A. Fibre optic cables can last 15-20 years with proper installation and environmental conditions. Durable materials like armoured steel enhance longevity. Outdoor cables last longer due to weatherproofing. Routine maintenance can extend lifespan.
A. Proper installation requires care to avoid damaging the cable. First, plan the route, avoiding obstacles. Dig a trench or conduit for burying. While laying the cable, use a cable plough or duct rod to keep it protected. Use fusion splicing or connectors for jointing. Finally, backfill the trench and restore the surface.
A. Fibre optic cables require periodic inspections and tests using an optical time-domain analyser (OTDR). Look for bends, kinks, or other physical damage. Monitor signal loss and wear protective coverings. Also, keep environmental conditions optimal and perform regular cleaning of connectors.
A. Various features protect fibre optic cables from physical damage. Armoured cables have steel or kevlar layers protecting them from mechanical impacts. Second, beside central strength members (CSM), durable outer jackets also protect the internal fibre from tension forces. Lastly, protective conduits are installed where cables pass through high-impact areas.
