With increased activity in OSP (outside plant) network deployment, a wide range of fiber optic cable types emerged to fulfill different construction needs. One of those types is ADSS (all-dielectric self-supporting) cable, which we will discuss further.
All-dielectric refers to the use of all-dielectric material (means one that has non-metallic non-conducting properties, with an insulating material that resists the passage of electric current through the cable. The self-supporting refers to the ability of the reinforcing member of the optical cable to withstand its own weight and external load. ADSS cable is, mainly, used on power pole frames, so it is required to have high mechanical strength and be able to endure the impact of strong electric environments.
To sum it up, we can say that the biggest cons of ADSS cable type are:
- It is self-supportive and does not utilize metallic elements that are conductive;
- Its installation costs are lower compared to OPGW (optical ground wire) and OPAC (optical attached cable);
- It has amazing mechanical strength, low weight, can handle external load and suitable for high loading and unloading cycle;
- Its aramid yarn increase cable’s tensile performance, as well as temperature performance under unfavorable weather;
- Design specific to application needs
In addition to that, ADSS cables are available in various sizes such as mini-span, aerial drop, standard and flat drop size. As with all optic fiber cables, ADSS cables available in single-mode and multi-mode. On one hand, single-mode ADSS cable is about 9µm diameter which allows one path of light, unlimited bandwidth (which can cover long distance), and finds usefulness in long distances applications such as in telephone companies; creating a connection between switching offices. On the other hand, ADSS multi-mode cables are available in two forms: the 50µm cable and the 62.5µm cable. They both permit multiple paths of light, the same application areas such as adding segments to the existing network, simple alarm system, and many more. They both have limited bandwidth. However, the bandwidth of the 50µm is three times wider than that of 62.5µm cable. In addition, both types of cable could occur in simplex and duplex forms. Simplex ADSS cable finds application primarily in data transfer, duplex usually finds its application in simultaneous bi-directional data transfer such as fiber switch, modem and server.
1 - Optic fibers
2 - Steel wire in sheath
3 - Outer sheath of halogen-free flame retardant polymer composition with low smoke emission
1 - Central dielectric strength element
2 - Optic fibers
3 - Tube of fiber optic module
4 - PET film winding
5 - Extended strength member (rope)
6 - Polyethylene outer sheath
ADSS cable usually consists of few non-metallic strength members (main and/or peripheral) and gel-filled central tube with optic fibers, all covered in defensive outer sheath. Design and form vary according to specific needs, but main components, usually are the same.
Mounting and fastening of ADSS cables
Even though ADSS cable itself is quite durable, the correct choice of mounting\fastening devices is crucial to ensure or even extend the desirable service life of the cable. Anchoring clamps can be used as cable dead-end at end-poles (using individual clamp) or can be installed as intermediate (double dead-end) clamp at:
- jointing poles
- intermediate angle poles, where the cable route deviates by more than 20°
- intermediate poles, where two connecting spans are different in lengths, to equalize tension
- intermediate poles on mountain or hilly landscapes
It is also important to note, that anchoring clamps have a huge advantage over classic metallic clamps and it is their ability to self-destroy (or loosen up) under extreme conditions (frosting, trees falling, hurricanes, etc.), what, in most cases, prevents line breakage or cable damage. It is possible because of a plastic UV and frost resistant body and polymeric wedges, which provide the same level of durability and tension support, as their metallic analogs but are more flexible. In addition to that, anchoring clamps do not require any installation tools, which ease the process of cable maintenance.
Thank you for reading our article, you can find more related info on our blog page.
Also, feel free to check products for further details (ADSS cables, Anchoring clamps).