Are you in search of more convenient strategies for fiber optic cable installation? The air-blown method of installing micro fiber optic cables is quicker, cleaner, and more efficient. This new method uses air to push the cables through the ducts, which saves both time and money. In this article, we’ll explore how this technology works and why it’s becoming a popular choice. So, keep reading!
Figure 1: Air-blown fiber optic cable
1) Understanding Air Blown Fiber Optic Cable Technology
“Air-blown micro fiber optic cable is one of the types of cable that is used to carry internet or data. Unlike the traditional method of digging the ground and pulling the cable by hand, here the cable is blown through small tubes using air.”
- Components of Air-Blown Fiber Optic Cable
In order to smoothly install an air-blown fiber optic system from start to finish, having a few primary components working together is essential. Let us discuss the components of air-blown fiber optic cable:
i) Ducts (Plastic Tubes): They are plastic pipes providing the path for the fiber cable to travel through.
ii) Fiber Optic Cable Units: Next, Cables, usually light and flexible, that transport internet or data signals.
iii) Blown Equipment (Blown Machine): Then, a machine that uses strong air to push the cable through the duct.
Figure 2: Blown Machine
iv) Connectors and Accessories: Lastly, Small parts that connect several ducts together, cap their ends, and facilitate the movements of the cable within.
- How Does the Air Blown Method Work?
To understand how air blown technology functions, let us examine the step-by-step procedure for installing fiber optic cables with air:
Step 1) Install the Plastic Tubes (Ducts): Before blown the cable, there needs to be a pathway prepared for it. Therefore, the first step is to put in place plastic tubes (or ducts) either underground or within the building. These tubes will provide a smooth pathway through which the cables can be directed later.
Step 2) Use the Blown Machine: Once the ducts are completed, a special machine is affixed to one side of the duct. This machine blows strong air (as a fan) into the tube. The air moves quickly through the duct from one end to the other.
Figure 3: Use of the Blown Machine
Step 3) Blow in the Fiber Optic Cable: Now comes the interesting part. A flexible and light fiber optic cable is inserted at the duct’s opening. The Air pushing through the duct helps in pushing the cable forward. As the air does this, the cable moves smoothly and swiftly through the tube without getting stuck, damaged, or breaking.
Step 4) The Cable Reaches the End: Finally, the cable comes out at the other end of the duct, right where you need it. There’s no need to dig or pull the cable by hand. It’s a clean and simple way to get the job done.
2) Features of Micro Fiber Optic Cable
Micro fiber optic cables possess characteristics making them ideal for use with air-blown installation and high-speed data transfer. In this section, we will discuss the features of Micro fiber optic cable:
- Ultra-Small Diameter: The cable’s circumference is smaller than that of standard fiber optic cables, which allows for additional cables to be stored in tighter spaces or ducts.
- Lightweight Design: Next, the lightweight design allows for ease of transport, manual labor, and installation, which is highly advantageous with air-blown installation techniques.
- High Fiber Count: Regardless of its small size, the cable can carry many optical fibers, like 12, 24, or even 48, which is beneficial for high-bandwidth applications.
- Flexible and Easy to Route: It bends easily without damaging the fibers, making it perfect for intricate routing within buildings or in underground ducts.
- Designed for Air Blown: Also, its unique coating makes it easier to blow over long distances, and the cable is made for air-blown installation systems.
- Durable Construction: The coating provided is effective against moisture, pressure, and temperature shifts, thus quality assured for indoor and outdoor use.
- Low Installation Cost: Less expensive ducts on smaller cables require less work and can be deployed faster, resulting in lower costs over the entire project.
3) Applications of Micro optic cable
The fast and reliable micro-optic data connections are beneficial in many different places. In this part, we will explore the uses of micro-optic cable:
i) Telecommunication Networks
Internet and phone companies use micro-optic cables to transmit signals over long distances. Hence, phone calls, text messages, and internet data can be transmitted simultaneously. In addition, micro optic cables have the advantage of being small and flexible, making them easier to install in different, even hard-to-reach areas. This increases customer satisfaction.
ii) Data Centers
Data centers are places where a lot of important information is stored. In these centers, micro-optic cables link both computers and servers. These cables facilitate efficient data transfer between devices, which is important for businesses, cloud services, as well as for websites requiring fast access to information. Due to the small size of micro-optic cables, they occupy less space in the data center’s congested compartments.
Figure 4: Use of Micro cable in data centers
iii) FTTH (Fiber to the Home)
FTTH refers to the process of bringing high-speed internet straight into your house using fiber optic cables. Micro optic cables are the best choice for this application because of their size, flexibility, and ease of installation. Unlike older copper cables, these cables provide faster internet speeds, which makes activities like streaming, gaming, and working online much smoother.
iv) Campus and Enterprise Networks
Educational institutions and businesses use micro-optic cables to link various departments and multi-storey buildings. This enables high-speed and dependable internet connection alongside other services across different office spaces and classrooms. Micro optic cables can be installed in narrow spaces and therefore easily facilitate the creation of efficient networks that satisfy the needs of large systems.
v) Smart Cities and IoT Infrastructure
In smart cities, micro-optic cables link various devices like traffic lights, sensors, and cameras. This enables high-speed communication, which enhances the city’s infrastructure. For instance, traffic lights can change according to the traffic at the time, and smart meters can monitor the energy consumption of citizens. Thus, micro-optic cables are critical in supporting the technologies that enhance the quality of life for residents in smart cities.
Figure 5: Use of Micro cable in Smart Cities
4) Technical Requirements for the Air Blown Method
When you install micro optic cables using the air-blown method, there are a few things you need to ensure for everything to work properly. Let’s explore these technical requirements:
i) Suitable Duct and Pathway Systems
To begin, the ducts (tubes) where the cables are blown must be of the correct size and made of sturdy material. The inner surfaces should not have any order’s sharp edges or tight bends, which will restrict bound movement of the cable (i.e,. the cable should be able to move freely). If the path is planned well, it will be free of obstacles, which aids during installation.
Figure 6: Suitable Duct and Pathway Systems
ii) Air Blown Machines and Pressure Specifications
Now you will employ the air blown machines to propel the cable through the ducts. These machines require a specific power to ensure they do not damage the cable while pushing it. Moreover, air pressure must be regulated to ensure the free movement of the cable while simultaneously protecting it from damage during installation.
iii) Cable Handling and Bending Radius Guidelines
Lastly, ensure that the fiber optic cables are managed properly in order to avoid fiber breakage and damage. There are limits to how much you can coil the cable around. Bending the cable too much can cause some damage. This is critical when the cable has to enter narrow passages and go around corners.
5) Challenges and Considerations
When you install micro optic cables using the air-blown method, there are several challenges and considerations you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth process:
- Initial Setup Costs: Setting up the air-blown system can be expensive in the beginning. However, it saves money in the long run due to future expansions being easier and less costly.
- Skill Requirements for Installation: The operation of air-blown machines, as well as neat cable work, requires specific expertise. Mismanagement can lead to broken cables,which will delay everything.
- Path Planning: Also, cables must be routed with great care. Excessive tight bends or obstacles may impede movement during installation.
- Environmental Factors: Moreover, this installation step can be influenced by temperature and moisture in the air. Some of the most extreme conditions could damage the cables or make the installation more difficult, so the environment needs to be planned ahead of time.
Figure 7: Consider Environmental Factors
- Maintenance Needs: To keep air-blown systems functioning, you’ll need to provide periodic maintenance. Neglected maintenance can result in equipment failures and expensive repair work.
Conclusion
In short, the process of installing air-blown micro fiber optic cables is very specialized. Everything from planning your duct system to the air-blown installation requires careful execution in order to prevent obstruction of cable movement and minimal signal loss. As you work to meet the growing demand for faster and more reliable networks, advancements in fiber optic technology can help improve your network’s performance and efficiency. At Dekam, we offer high-quality fiber optic cables to support modern networks. Our expertise and focus on innovation ensure your network is built with reliable and efficient technology. Contact us for more information.
