Fiber optic cables rely on insulation and sheathing layers to ensure the performance and longevity of internal metal conductors and the cable itself in various environments. The choice of cable sheathing and insulation materials directly affects the cable’s durability, flexibility, and resistance to environmental stressors.
Characteristics: Flexible, cost-effective, and flame-retardant.
Applications: Suitable for indoor cables requiring fire resistance and flexibility. PVC sheathing is commonly used in residential and commercial installations.
Advantages: More affordable compared to other materials.
Characteristics: Durable, UV-resistant, and moisture-resistant.
Applications: XLPE materials are primarily used for the sheathing of outdoor fiber optic cables, including direct-burial and overhead cables. It withstands harsh weather conditions and provides excellent weather resistance.
Advantages: PE sheathing prevents water intrusion and UV radiation, making it ideal for long-term outdoor deployment. Its excellent dielectric properties reduce electrical interference, ensuring reliable long-distance data transmission.
Characteristics: Highly wear-resistant and chemically resistant.
Applications: Polyurethane sheathing is used in industrial environments or where cables are exposed to mechanical stress, oils, and harsh chemicals. It is often used in tactical fiber optic cables and military-grade applications.
Advantages: Offers outstanding tensile strength and abrasion resistance.
Characteristics: Low smoke emission during combustion and free from toxic halogens.
Applications: LSZH sheathing is commonly used in enclosed spaces such as tunnels, airplanes, ships, and data centers, where minimizing toxic smoke and fumes is critical for safety.
Advantages: LSZH enhances fire safety by reducing toxic gas emissions, protecting personnel and equipment.
Characteristics: High-temperature resistance and low friction.
Applications: Used in high-speed data cables and environments with significant heat exposure.
Advantages: Reduces signal attenuation and ensures efficient data transmission.
Characteristics: Flexible, durable, and easy to process.
Applications: Suitable for dynamic environments involving repeated bending, such as robotics or mobile installations.
Advantages: Maintains flexibility at low temperatures and offers excellent abrasion resistance.
Characteristics: Low dielectric constant and high insulation performance.
Applications: Commonly used for outdoor cable insulation requiring long-term electrical insulation.
Advantages: Provides long-term stability and minimal signal loss.
PVC + TPE: Flexible and flame-retardant, suitable for indoor use in standard environments.
PE + Fluoropolymer: UV-resistant and suitable for outdoor or high-temperature environments, ensuring minimal signal loss.
PU + LSZH: Rugged, high mechanical strength, and fire-resistant, ideal for industrial or hazardous areas.
Selecting the right sheathing and insulation materials for fiber optic cables is crucial to optimizing performance and longevity. Flame-retardant materials like PVC or LSZH enhance safety in indoor environments. For outdoor applications, XLPE provides superior environmental protection. Industrial environments benefit from PU sheathing for enhanced durability.
Understanding what materials fiber optic cables are made of from the perspective of sheathing and insulation ensures the selection of the right cables for specific applications, enhancing overall system efficiency and safety.
