Loose Tube Fibre
Loose-tube fiber cables have only one protective outer layer, in contrast to tight-tube cables, which contain two layers of aramid yarns (one layer around the fiber core and one outer layer).
- Multiple 250 m strands of fiber form a loose tube fiber cable that can be manufactured dry-laid or gel-filled.
- Both buildings offer some degree of protection against water ingress. An outer jacket and gel, often called a thixatrope, surrounds the fiber core within a gel-filled loose tube.
- A similar loose tube cable is used for dry applications but contains an additional internal protective coating to keep you dry.
- In more severe conditions, or where there is frequent contact with wires, the outer tube can be made of a more durable or semi-rigid material for even more protection.
- Aramid threads or strength members that provide stiffness are usually present in loose tube fiber cables. Fiber optic loose tube cables have bundles of 2 to 144/288 fibers wrapped around a strength component.
The following table lists the comparison between Tight Buffering and Loose Tube Fiber Optic Cable
Difference Between Loose-tube and Tight-buffered Fiber Optic Cable
So let’s discuss the term “Dense buffer”. It describes aramid yarns surrounding a fiber core such as Kevlar wool. The outer acrylic coating consists of two layers, tightly surrounding the quartz fiber core and protecting both the core and the fiber cladding.
- Typically manufactured with 900 m cores, tight buffer cables are often similar in strength to traditional fiber optic patch cords.
- The high-density buffer increases the structural stability of the cable, helps protect the fiber core during installation, and extends the useful life of the cable.
- Tight gauge cable also improves cable attenuation and fiber core protection when the cable is bent, making it ideal for installations requiring tight bend radii. 2 to 144/288 fibers are included in tight buffered cables.
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