Armored Fiber Cable Guide

Armored fiber optic cables ensure robust network infrastructures. Understanding armored fiber cable’s definition, structure, and applications is crucial for optimizing network performance. This guide explores types, applications, and considerations for selecting armored cables, empowering informed decisions in network optimization.

 

Understanding Armored Fiber Optic Cables

 

Armoured Fiber Cable Definition and Why Do We Need it?

 

Armored fiber cable is a fiber optic cable reinforced with additional protective layers to enhance its durability and resistance to external damage. These cables are designed to endure extreme environmental conditions, physical strain, and potential interference. The armor typically consists of materials such as steel or aluminum, providing a strong barrier against crushing, bending, abrasion, and rodent damage. So why do we need to use armored patch cords?

 

In the past, outdoor fiber optic cables were commonly placed within robust conduits to shield them from external forces. However, this approach was intricate and incurred considerable time and labor expenses. To address this, a protective metal armor was integrated around the fiber core within the cable, giving rise to armored fiber cables. These cables are engineered to endure strong pressure and stretching, making them ideal for rugged outdoor conditions. Furthermore, they provide enhanced flexibility in installation compared to conduit-based methods. Armored fiber cables have now become prevalent in the realm of optical communication.

 

Structure of Armored Cables

 

The structure of armored cables typically consists of several key components designed to provide enhanced protection and durability. These components may include:

 

Fiber Core: This is the central component of the cable, consisting of one or more optical fibers that transmit data signals in the form of light pulses.

   

Strength Members: Armored cables often incorporate strength members such as aramid fibers (e.g., Kevlar) or fiberglass rods. These provide additional support to the cable, enhancing its resistance to tensile forces and preventing elongation or deformation.

Armor Layer: The armor layer is the outermost protective sheath of the cable, typically made of metal such as steel or aluminum. This layer shields the cable from physical damage caused by crushing, bending, abrasion, or rodent gnawing. The armor may come in various forms, including interlocking metal tape, corrugated metal tape, or metal wire braid.

 

Outer Jacket: In some armored cable designs, an outer jacket may be added for further protection against environmental factors like moisture, UV radiation, and chemicals. The outer jacket is typically made of materials such as polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or low smoke zero halogen (LSZH) compounds. 

  

Armored VS Unarmoured, What is the Difference?

Armored fiber optic cables, as opposed to standard ones, feature internal stainless steel tubing for enhanced protection, offering greater resistance to compression and tension. Standard fiber optic cables typically consist of tight-buffered fibers, aramid yarn, and an outer jacket, whereas armored cables include an additional layer of stainless steel armor between the tight-buffered fibers and aramid yarn. This reinforcement significantly boosts the cable's ability to withstand lateral pressure without compromising its optical performance, preventing damage from mechanical forces. Additionally, armored cables are resistant to impacts and deter rodent gnawing.

Types of Armoured Cables

  

Categorization Based on Metal Tubing

  

Armored fiber optic cable comes in two main varieties based on the metal sheathing: interlock armored fiber cable and corrugated armored cable. Interlocking armor comprises aluminum, tightly wrapped around the cable helically, commonly used in indoor and outdoor cables. This design ensures durability and exceptional crush resistance. On the other hand, corrugated armor consists of a steel tape coated and folded longitudinally around the cable, primarily employed in outdoor cables to provide additional mechanical strength and protection against rodents. Both types of armored fiber cables facilitate installation in hazardous environments, such as those with high levels of dust, oil, gas, moisture, or rodents that could cause damage.

Classification Based on Installation Method

 

As previously discussed, armored fiber cables feature robust metal sheathing, making termination more challenging than standard fiber optic cables. Field-terminated armored fiber cables exhibit superior performance in certain outdoor settings, whereas many installers prefer pre-terminated options for indoor applications due to their efficient installation process and reliable signal transmission.

  

Moreover, the market offers primarily two types of pre-terminated armored fiber cables: armored fiber patch cables and armored fiber trunk cables. Armored fiber patch cables are sturdier and more flexible than traditional fiber patch cables, while armored fiber trunk cables consist of a length of armored fiber cable with multiple legs terminated with fiber optic connectors at each end.

   

Categorization Based on Applications

 

Armored fiber cables find utility both indoors and outdoors, catering to different installation requirements. Typically, there are two main variants: tight-buffered and loose-buffered armored cables. While both can serve indoor and outdoor purposes, loose-buffered types are predominantly preferred for outdoor settings.

 

Indoor Armored Fiber Cable:

Indoor applications usually employ armored cables comprising tight-buffered or loose-buffered variants, reinforced with strength members and an inner jacket. A spirally wrapped interlocking metal tap armor often shields the inner jacket for added protection.

 

Outdoor Armored Fiber Cable:

Outdoor armored cables, with prevalent loose-buffer designs, are engineered to ensure operational reliability in challenging outdoor conditions. They come in two versions: light armor and heavy armor.

 

Light Armored Cable:

The light armor variant features a protective plastic jacket offering durability akin to stainless steel but with reduced weight. This makes it suitable for diverse applications ranging from interconnects to industrial setups and moderately harsh environments.

  

Heavy Armored Cable:

In contrast, the heavy armored cable is encased in a wire circle, providing robust protection against gnawing animals and damages, especially during direct burial installations. It finds application in environments like river beds and ocean floors.

 

Applications of Armored Network Cables

  

Where are Armored Fiber Optic Cables Typically Used?

 

Armored fiber optic cables are used in various applications where additional protection against physical damage or environmental hazards is required. Some common uses include:

 

Outdoor Installations: Armored fiber optic cables are often used for outdoor installations where they may be exposed to harsh weather conditions, moisture, and physical damage from rodents or digging equipment.

 

Industrial Environments: In industrial settings such as manufacturing plants or chemical facilities, armored fiber optic cables protect against mechanical stress, chemicals, and other hazards present in these environments.

 

Underground Installations: When fiber optic cables are buried underground, they are susceptible to damage from digging activities, rocks, or other objects. Armored cables provide an extra layer of protection against such threats.

 

Data Centers: In data center environments, where cable management can be complex and cables may be routed through tight spaces, armored fiber optic cables help prevent accidental damage during installation and maintenance activities.

How to Install Armored Patch Cords?

 

To streamline the process of handling armored fiber optic cable during installation, follow these steps to address potential challenges:

 

Bend and Separate: Begin by bending the armored cable approximately 10 inches from its end. Apply pressure with your hand to separate the coils of the armor. If manual force isn't sufficient, utilize pliers or an alternative cutting tool.

 

Twist and Release: Firmly grip the armored cable on both sides of the cut and twist until the armor coil separates, moving away from the wires. If necessary, employ two pairs of pliers for added leverage.

 

Trim Exposed Coil: Use side cutters to trim away the exposed coil of sheathing. You may need to maneuver the cutters back and forth to facilitate the opening and cutting process.

 

Wire Cutting: If you adjust the cable length, retract the sheathing and cut through the wires accordingly. Alternatively, discard any excess material after removing the waste piece.

 

Final Touches: Employ side cutters to remove protruding sharp edges from the sheathing. Eliminate the paper wrapping and any residual plastic strips for a clean finish.

 

How to Cut Armored Fiber Cables?

 

To cut armored fiber optic cables effectively and safely, you have several tool options at your disposal. The recommended choice is cable cutters specifically engineered for this purpose. However, if these are unavailable, you can utilize diagonal cutters or a hacksaw as alternatives. Follow these steps for precise and secure cable cutting:

 

Measure accurately: Determine the required cable length and mark the outer sheath at the designated cutting point.

 

Adjust blade depth: Ensure the tool's depth is appropriately set for cutting through the armor without damaging the inner components.

 

Secure in place: Position the cable within the wire guide of the cutter, aligning it precisely with the marked cutting point, and securely fasten it in position.

 

Execute the cut: With caution, proceed to cut the marked point.

 

Retrieve the cut cable: Once the cut is complete, carefully remove the newly cut section from the cutter, ensuring a clean and precise outcome.

 

Considerations for Selecting Armored Fiber Optic Patch Cables

  

When selecting armored fiber cables for your project, there are several key considerations to remember.

 

Environmental Conditions: Assess the environmental factors where the cables will be installed. Consider whether the cables will be exposed to extreme temperatures, moisture, chemicals, or physical damage. Choose armored cables with appropriate protective features to withstand these conditions.

 

Installation Environment: Evaluate the installation environment, including indoor or outdoor settings, and aerial, buried, or direct burial applications. Select armored fiber cables with suitable designs for the specific installation environment to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

  

Flexibility and Bend Radius: Consider the flexibility and bend radius of the armored fiber cables, especially if they need to be routed through tight spaces or around corners. Choose cables with appropriate flexibility and bend radius specifications to facilitate installation and minimize stress on the fibers.

  

Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with existing infrastructure, equipment, and connectors. Select armored cables compatible with standard fiber optic connectors, termination methods, and networking devices to streamline installation and integration with existing systems.

  

Cost and Budget: Evaluate the cost of armored fiber cables concerning your budget constraints. Consider the total cost of ownership, including installation, maintenance, and potential future upgrades or expansions. Balance cost considerations with the cables' desired performance, reliability, and longevity.

  

Conclusion 

  

In summary, armored fiber optic cables offer resilient protection for network infrastructures against physical stress and environmental hazards. Understanding the features, applications, and types of armored fiber optic cables empowers informed decision-making during selection and installation. Consulting professionals and adhering to safety regulations are crucial for ensuring proper installation and optimal project performance.