Fiber optic cable wire suspension

Fiber optic cables, including OPGW and aerial fiber cables, are supported using specialized suspension hardware that protects the cable while accommodating mechanical loads and environmental stresses.

Types of Suspension Hardware

Mechanical Suspensions: Lightweight mechanical suspensions, such as those from AFL, support spans of optical ground wire (OPGW) through various line angles. They handle vertical, transverse, and longitudinal unbalanced loads without damaging the cable strands or affecting optical fiber performance. Breakaway bolts ensure proper installation torque and simplify installation without specialized tools . FIBERLIGN Suspension: This system uses structural reinforcing rods (SRR), outer rods, housing halves, and resilient inserts to reduce compression, clamping, and bending stresses on OPGW cables. While SRR and outer rods are single-use, other hardware components can be reused if in good condition . Armour Grip Suspension: Armour grip suspensions are designed for movable suspension of conductors and optical fiber aerial cables. They consist of helical rods, a concave Neoprene insert, and a clamp body. This design prevents axial displacement, avoids local bending stress, and allows the cable to withstand vibrations. The rods also provide short-circuit current resistance .

Installation and Support Features

• Single and Double Suspensions: Fiber optic cables can be supported using single or double suspension clamps depending on span length and load requirements .
• Downlead Clamps: These guide OPGW from the top of a structure to splice boxes, ensuring proper spacing and holding strength without damaging the cable .
• Cable Storage Assemblies: Used to store slack or reserved optical cable on towers or poles, maintaining proper tension and organization .
• Suspension Sets: Typical suspension sets include shackles, twisted or eye chain links, armour grip suspension clamps, parallel groove clamps, and earthing connectors .

Key Considerations

• Stress Management: Proper suspension reduces compression, bending, and clamping stresses, which is critical to maintaining optical fiber performance.
• Vibration and Environmental Loads: Armour rods and resilient inserts help mitigate the effects of wind-induced vibrations and mechanical loads.
• Ease of Installation: Many suspension systems are designed for fast installation, minimizing labor costs and reducing the risk of cable damage. Fiber optic cable suspension systems are essential for ensuring the longevity and reliability of aerial fiber networks, providing mechanical support while protecting the delicate optical fibers from stress and environmental factors.