A NEW FILLING CONCEPT FOR IMPROVED OVERALL PERFORMANCE OF FIBER OPTIC CABLES

摘要

This paper demonstrates a new concept for optical cables with loose tubes, Dry Tech. Instead of the traditionally used jelly as water blocking material, a foam-like thermoplastic elastomer (TPE-0) is used. The new concept gives a more user and environmental friendly cable, since the preparation and recycling of cables with the new concept is simpler and involves less use of solvents. Replacing jelly with TPE-0 between the tubes also further supports the cable structure. This advantageous extra support can be used either to decrease the cable dimensions with maintained mechanical properties, or to enhance mechanical properties with maintained dimensions. In the work of developing the new concept, several cable designs have been evaluated. This includes cables for aerial, duct and direct burial installation. Field tests have been performed during the evaluation process. The conclusion from this work is that traditional jelly can be replaced with TPE-0 as a filling compound for improved mechanical, manufacturing, handling and environmental properties.