Fiber Optic cables have played a very crucial role in modernizing the communication sector. However, all fiber cables are not equal, as standard fiber cables may fail in challenging environments. So, armoured fiber optic cables truly stand out. This is because, their unique structure offers unparalleled protection from moisture, rodents, and even severe weather.
Thus, if you require extreme reliability for outdoor, industrial or even underground applications, this guide will help you select the optimal cable that will provide a smooth connection.
Figure no 1 A Guide to Armoured Fiber Optic cables
1) What is an Armoured Fiber Optic cable?
“An armoured fiber optic cable is a type of fiber cable that has a metal sheathing to protect it from extreme weather and physical damage.”
These cables are very reliable when it comes to stable data transmission, minimal maintenance, and long-term durability, whether they are exposed directly in the air, buried underground, or even underwater.
Figure no 2 Armoured fiber cable
- Structure and composition:
To achieve superior protection and performance, armoured fiber cables are formed of multiple layers, each serving a particular purpose. Let’s see how they work together:
- Core Fiber: First of all, the main component of the cable is the optical fiber which transmits data signals in the form of light pulses. Keep in mind that it may be a single-mode fiber (recommended for extended-range communication) or multimode fiber (recommended for transferring high-volume data to short distances), depending on the application.
- Buffer Tube: Moreover, for an additional sheath of protection, the fiber is encased in a buffer tub. It can be either tight-buffered suitable to an indoor environment, or loose-tube which is meant for outdoor use and has better moisture protection.
- Strength Members: Next, a layer of aramid yarn or Kevlar enhance the cable’s tensile strength. Thus, it prevents the fiber from stretching or breaking, particularly during installation, heavy loads, and other stressors placed on the cable.
- Armoring Layer: Now, comes its most unique feature which is its metal shielding It is made from corrugated steel tape CST, or interlocking stainless steel. This layer is extremely resistant to crushing forces, rodent attacks and other environmental dangers, which guarantees its longevity.
- Outer Jacket: Lastly, the cable’s electromagnetic compatibility is further enhanced by an outer protective sleeve which encases the cable. You know it is usually made of PVC or polyethylene which shields the device from ultraviolet rays, moisture, and mechanical strain.
2) Types of Armored Fiber Optic Cables
There are different types of Armoured fiber based on the differences in structure and methods of installation Every type is designed to cope with different environmental obstacles while maintaining reliable transmission of information. Let us look at these classifications more deeply.
- Based on the type of Metal Tube
i) Corrugated Steel Tape (CST) Armored cables
CST-armored cables consist of CST corrugated tape which is wrapped around the fiber core. Such construction offers crushing strength, up to 1500N/100mm, along with great moisture protection. It makes them suitable for direct burial and severe industrial environments. In addition, their ability to withstand environmental stress enhances operational lifespan.
ii) Interlocking Stainless Steel Armored Cables
On the other hand, interlocking stainless steel cables use flexible weave metal strips, which offers increased protection alongside greater flexibility. These are better for indoor data centres and offices due to the need for frequent reconfiguration. Furthermore, these are safer for confined spaces due to improved fire-resistant characteristics.
Figure no 3 Interlock and Corrugated amour fibe cables
iii) Aluminum Armored Cables
Similarly, aluminium-armoured cables offer a rugged solution. They are frequently used in coastal and underwater applications because of their lightweight construction, which makes them vulnerable to other metals rapidly deteriorating in saline environments. If you want to buy this kind of armoured fiber cable, then contact Dekam Fibers. Our GYTA Fiber optic cables are aluminium armoured and their core sizes range from 2 to 288.
Figure no 4 Aluminium Armoured fiber cables
- Based on the Installation Method
iv) Direct Burial Armored Cables
As far as underground installations are concerned, direct burial armoured cables are unrivalled in featuring heavy steel armour and crush resistance of over 4500N, as well as polyethene jackets that are UV resistant. Thus, their durability against harsh soil conditions, heavy loads, and extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C to 85°C, makes them a reliable option for long-term buried use.
v) Aerial Armored Cables
These cables come with outer jackets that resist UV rays, and also the messenger wires, making certain that they withstand excess tension. Moreover, their lightweight yet durable design also reduces sagging, which helps lower maintenance costs over time.
vi) Submarine Armored Cables
In subsea environments, submarine armoured cables are unmatched with regard to durability. The cables are able to endure immense water pressure (up to 6000 psi), corrosion, and deep-sea currents. This is because these cables have several layers of protection including high-strength steel arms and gel-filled buffer tubes which ensure reliability at over 8000 meters of depth.
3) What are the benefits of Armored Fiber Cables?
+ Durability: Armored fiber cables are strengthened to resist mechanical stress and moisture, as well as environmental buffeting, and therefore offer longevity in extreme conditions. Such construction improves their service life by decreasing the need for repairs and replacements.
+ Provides greater security: Moreover, these cables offer enhanced physical protection from damage, rodents, crushing, tampering and outside interference. Moreover, the wires are scientifically shielded to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI), ensuring reliable data transmission. Thus, their protective features enhance overall network security which is important in sensitive environments like military or financial networks.
+ Highly Economical: Compared to unarmored optical cables, Armored fiber cables are more expensive. But the long service life coupled with less required maintenance compensates for this expense, thus leading to major cost savings in the long run.
4) Comparison: Armored vs. Unarmored Fiber Cable
Figure no 5 Armoured vs Unarmoured fiber cables
Armoured Fiber Optic cable | Unarmoured Fiber Optic cable | |
| Construction | Includes a protective metal layer (CST or stainless steel) | Lacks a metal layer, and only has outer insulation |
| Durability | High resistance to crushing, rodents, and harsh conditions | More vulnerable to physical damage |
| Installation | Suitable for underground, industrial, and outdoor use | Best for indoor or controlled environments |
| Flexibility | Less flexible due to metal reinforcement | More flexible and lightweight |
| Security | Provides better protection against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and tampering | More prone to interference and external damage |
| Cost | Provides better protection against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and tampering | Lower upfront cost but may require protective conduits |
| Best Applications | Outdoor networks, underground cabling, military, and industrial sites | Data centres, office buildings, and indoor installations |
5) Armoured Fiber Cable Installation Guide
The optimal performance and durability of armoured fiber optic cables are dependent on proper installation. To avoid excessive maintenance, physical damage, and signal loss, the right methods need to be followed. Here is what you must do:
i) Prepare the Installation Site: Before preparing the actual site, conduct an environment assessment to plan the cable’s route and ensure free passage. For underground installations, excavate trenches at depths of 0.8m–1.2m to prevent damage. For aerial installations, you have to survey poles and support structures to confirm they can withstand the cable’s weight and tension.
ii) Exercise Caution While Using the Cable: Considering that armoured fiber cables are less flexible and possess greater weight than unarmored cables, they require special handling to prevent excessive bending. Thus, to avoid signal loss and fiber breakage, always maintain a minimum bend radius of 10 times the diameter of the cable.
Figure no 6 Armoured fiber cable installation
ii) Lay and Fix the Cable: Moreover, while placing the cable, special attention should be paid to its surroundings. In cases of direct burial, protective tubes or ducts should be placed for added safety. Moreover, tension-resistant hardware should be used to adequately secure the cable for aerial installation. However, in the case of indoor usage, the use of cable trays will assist in preventing unintentional damage.
iii) Splicing and Grounding: Similarly, when you have to splice the cable, opt for fusion splicing since it has the lowest signal loss. Metal layers such as armour require proper grounding to safeguard against electrical interference.
iv) Test and Maintain Regularly: In addition to splice testing, the cable also requires signal testing. This can be done with an Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer (OTDR). Conducting these tests routinely helps in identifying issues early on to maintain the fiber network’s reliability and stability.
6) Choose DEKAM Fibers to customize armoured fiber optic cables
While selecting armoured optic fiber cables, consider Dekam fibers as we offer a versatile spectrum of customized solutions. For instance;
i) GYTA Cables: Contains aluminium armour, thus appropriate for outdoor settings where protection from moisture is needed.
ii) GYXTW Cables: This type is gel filled with steel wire strength members which provide great protection from water ingress, thus suitable for external placements.
iii) GYTS Cables: Fertile with steel-tape armour, this equipment has greater protection from mechanical strains flexible for harsh outer conditions.
iv) GYTA53 Cables: Designed for direct burial applications, this double-armoured cassette is meant to withstand harsh environments.
v) GYFTY53 Cables: With a double jacket that is resistant to crushing GYFTY53 is suitable for those underground installations where durability is of great emphasis.
vi) GYXTC8Y Cables: Equipped with steel strength members, these cables are designed for aerial work guaranteeing stability and resilience.
vii) GYFTA Cables: Optimized for use in aerial locations, this cable is equipped with non-metallic strength members assuring stability and resilience.
viii) GYDTS Cables: Last but not least, these cables have dielectric strength members.
So, to acquire a quote or to gather more information, visit our website today!
7) Conclusion
If optimal protection against mechanical stress, environmental conditions, or rodent attacks is required, then an investment towards a high-quality armoured cable is necessary. For such reliable and quality fiber solutions, Dekam offers premium armoured fiber optic cables tailored for every application. Switch to Dekam Fiber today for enhanced connectivity and experience extended performance and durability.
