Fiber optic cables play a crucial role in modern communication networks, offering fast and reliable data transmission. They consist of three main components and are available in several structures suited to different uses. In this article, discover in detail these components and the various structures of fiber optic cables.
The 3 components of fiber optics:
The core: made of silica, molten quartz, or plastic, in which optical waves propagate. Diameter: 50µm or 62.5µm for multimode fiber and 9µm for single-mode.
The optical cladding: generally made of the same materials as the core but with additives, which confine the optical waves to the core.
The primary coating: a protective plastic coating that ensures the mechanical protection of the fiber.
The different structures of fiber optic cables:
SIMPLEX
A simple and robust construction, ideal for basic installations.
Fiber optic
Tube from 700 to 900µm
Reinforced with aramid yarns
Outer sheath LSZH or PVC Ø 1.6 to 2.8mm with identification markings and metric scale
ZIPCORD
Used for pair connections, often for internal connections.
Fiber optic
Tube from 700 to 900µm
Reinforced with aramid yarns
Outer sheath LSZH or PVC Ø 2×1.6mm to 2×2.8mm with identification markings and metric scale
DUPLEX
Ideal for bidirectional connections in professional environments.
Fiber optics
Tube from 700 to 900µm
Reinforced with aramid yarns
LSZH sheath from 1.6 to 2.8mm
Outer sheath (over the sheath) LSZH or PE with identification markings and metric scale
BREAKOUT
Perfect for installations requiring multiple connections with enhanced protection.
Central dielectric reinforcement
Reinforced with aramid yarns
Tear-resistant film
Fiber optics
900µm tube
Colored LSZH cordage sheath at 2mm
Outer sheath (over the sheath) LSZH with identification markings and metric scale
DISTRIBUTION
Used for star connections in complex environments.
Fiber optic
Colored 900µm tube
Protective reinforcement with fiberglass
Outer sheath LSZH or PE with identification markings and metric scale
Tear-resistant filament
CENTRAL LOOSE TUBE
Optimal choice for outdoor installations with a large fiber capacity.
Colored fiber 250µm
Filling gel
Protective reinforcement with fiberglass
Outer sheath (over-sheath) LSZH or PE with identification markings and metric scale
Central tube
Tear-resistant filament
MULTITUBE
An effective solution for high-density fiber installations.
Number of fibers: from 36 to 144 fibers
Components:
Central dielectric reinforcement
Filling gel
Tube containing 12 colored fibers 250µm
Outer sheath LSZH or PE
MICROMODULE
Perfect for large installations with flexible fiber management.
Number of fibers: from 12 to 864 fibers
Components:
Colored fiber 250 µm
Flexible sheath containing the fibers
Easy stripping
Outer sheath LSZH or PE with fiberglass reinforcement
TIGHT STRUCTURE
Flexible and robust, ideal for internal patch cables.
A plastic sheath is applied directly over the optical sheath. This type of structure mechanically strengthens the fiber and provides the flexibility needed for making patch cords or cables inside buildings.
LOOSE STRUCTURE
Suitable for inter-building connections with fiber protected by a tube.
One or more fibers are placed “free” inside a tube. This type of fiber is particularly used for inter-building connections.
