Factors To Consider During Fibre Optic Cable Installation

By Sherry Gross


Fiber optics that has been improperly placed is susceptible to damage. In order to enhance handling and good performance, it is imperative that some procedures and guidelines be followed in the connection of these cables to prevent damage and limiting their usefulness. This article, therefore, takes you through the pertinent issues and facts during fibre optic cable installation.

When planning for the placement, begin by carrying out a site survey. This preliminary visit of the site is intended to familiarize you with the general conditions and ascertain the specific locations and circumstances that call for special attention. The survey entails identifying potential challenges such as high temperatures, weak walls and operating machinery to help provide for them well in advance during routing. In addition, this stage enables you to get acquainted with the building code and regulations in place and to seek for clarification from the relevant resource person concerning the same.

After surveying, you then develop an effective cable pulling plan. The plan ought to communicate to the fixation team the considerations noted in the site survey. It entails logistics on cable let-off or pulling equipment, splice and intermediate access point locations. In addition, the plan must outline the particular responsibilities of each and every member of the team involved in the fixation.

When undertaking the exercise, it is vital to follow the required procedure. Due to their delicate nature when exposed to moisture, the end of the cables must be insulated by an end cap at all times. The process of pulling should not be done when the left-off reel is unattended to since center-pulls, back-feeding and difficult pull techniques may be applied.

The connection should put in mind the minimum bend radius. It is crucial to consider the fact that every connector has its own minimum radius value. Therefore, be sure not to curve them more than the recommended bend value. The specified long range application radius must be adhered to during placement and after eliminating the pulling tension. As a general rule, wrapping and coiling is acceptable, but only when done within the constraints of the bend radius.

Another important factor to consider is the maximum recommended cable length. Despite the fact that fiber optics are much stronger compared to copper wires, it is imperative not to exceed the maximum tension pulling. The general strength ranking for most outdoor cables is 2700N.

Apart from the cable length, there is also the uppermost load value recommended in the long run. As such, the resultant tension after the placement should be less than this value. When installing vertically, be keen to clamp the wires at consistent intervals in order to avoid the resulting weight from exceeding the specified long-term load. Nevertheless, the intervals between clamps must be enough to prevent movement and support the weight.

Simply put, the process of placement is simple and systematic. The basic steps outlined above can be applied to any kind of connection. It begins with developing a pulling plan after which certain laid down procedures are followed in doing the placement. The connection is done within the minimum set bend radius and maximum recommended load. It is important to document the entire process.




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