Fiber Optic Cable (FOC) is an indispensable part of modern communication network, and it occupies an important position in the field of data transmission with its characteristics of high speed, high bandwidth and strong anti-interference ability. This article will introduce the structure of fibre optic cable in detail so that readers can have a deeper understanding of it.
1. Basic composition of fibre-optic cable
Fibre optic cable is mainly composed of three parts: fibre optic core, cladding and sheath.
Fibre optic core: This is the core of a fibre optic cable and is responsible for transmitting optical signals. Fibre optic cores are usually made of very pure glass or plastic, with a diameter of only a few microns. The design of the core ensures that the optical signal travels through it efficiently and with very low loss.
Cladding: Enclosed around the core of the fibre is the cladding, whose refractive index is slightly lower than that of the core, and which is designed to allow the optical signal to be transmitted in the core in a totally reflective manner, thus reducing signal loss. The cladding is also made of glass or plastic and physically protects the core.
Jacket: The outermost jacket is made of a tough material such as polyethylene (PE) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), whose main function is to protect the fibre optic core and the cladding from environmental damage such as abrasion, moisture and chemical corrosion.
2. Types of fibre-optic cables
According to the arrangement and protection of the optical fibres, fibre optic cables can be divided into the following types:
Laminated stranded fiber optic cable: this structure is similar to traditional cables, in which multiple optical fibers are stranded around a central reinforcing core, creating an appearance similar to that of classical cables. Laminated stranded fibre optic cables have high tensile strength and good bending properties, and have a small diameter, making them easy to route and maintain.
Skeleton cable: this cable uses a plastic skeleton as the support structure of the optical fibre, the optical fibre is fixed in the grooves of the skeleton, which has good protective properties and structural stability.
Centre bundle tube cable: the optical fibre is placed in the centre of the optical cable tube, surrounded by a reinforcing core and jacket protection, this structure is conducive to the protection of optical fibres from external influences.
Ribbon cable: the optical fibres are arranged in the form of ribbons with spacing between each fibre ribbon, this design helps to improve the tensile strength and lateral compression resistance of the cable.
3. Additional components of fibre-optic cables
In addition to the basic optical fibres, cladding and sheath, fibre optic cables may contain the following additional components:
Reinforcement core: Located at the centre of the fibre optic cable, it provides additional mechanical strength to resist tensile forces and stresses.
Buffer layer: Located between the fibre and the sheath, it further protects the fibre from impact and abrasion.
Armouring layer: Some fibre optic cables also have an additional armouring layer, such as steel tape armouring, to provide extra protection for harsh environments or where additional mechanical protection is required.
4. Manufacturing processes for fibre-optic cables
The manufacturing of fibre optic cables involves a high precision process, including steps such as drawing of fibre optics, coating of cladding, stranding, cable formation and sheath extrusion. Each step needs to be strictly controlled to ensure the performance and quality of the fibre optic cable.
In summary, the structural design of optical fibre cables takes into account both the efficient transmission of optical signals and physical protection and environmental adaptability. With the continuous progress of technology, the structure and materials of fibre optic cables are being optimized to meet the growing demand for communication.
Post time: May-22-2025