Fiber optic cable loose tube blown

Loose tube fiber optic cables can be air-blown into ducts or conduits, offering flexible, high-density, and durable fiber deployment.

Cable Structure

Loose tube fiber optic cables consist of fibers housed in PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) loose tubes, which are filled with a water-resistant compound to protect against moisture . These tubes are stranded around a central strength member, often reinforced with aramid yarns, and covered with an outer sheath made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or similar durable material . Loose tube designs typically contain 12 to 24 fibers per tube, and cables can scale up to hundreds of fibers for high-capacity networks .

Air-Blown Installation

Blown fiber installation involves pushing or jetting the cable through pre-installed microducts using high-speed airflow combined with mechanical force . The cable is attached to a blowing head that grips it, and compressed air propels the cable through the duct. This method reduces friction, allows for long-distance installation, and enables future upgrades by adding additional fibers without replacing the entire duct .

Key Considerations

• Conduit Size: The duct should be slightly larger than the cable to minimize friction .
• Air Pressure: Use the minimum pressure necessary to avoid damaging the cable .
• Temperature: Avoid extreme cold, which can make the cable jacket brittle and reduce air-blowing efficiency .
• Lubrication: Low-friction coatings or blowing lubricants can improve installation performance .

Advantages

• High Flexibility: Loose tube cables can be blown into existing ducts, reducing the need for new infrastructure .
• Durability: Water-resistant filling and robust sheathing protect fibers from environmental damage .
• Scalability: Microduct systems allow for future fiber expansion without major construction .
• Ease of Handling: Lightweight and flexible design simplifies installation in complex duct networks . Loose tube blown fiber cables are widely used in outdoor duct, lashed aerial, and microduct systems, making them ideal for telecommunications, broadband, and high-capacity network deployments . Proper adherence to blowing procedures ensures efficient, safe, and long-lasting fiber installations.