Armored Fiber Cable, also known as armored fiber optic cable, features a unique structure designed to provide enhanced protection for fiber optic cables. Here is a detailed breakdown of its structure:
Core Components
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Optical Waveguide:
- This is the central component of the fiber optic cable, responsible for transmitting light signals.
- It typically consists of a pure silica core with a fluorine-doped silica cladding.
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Cable Jacket:
- Surrounds the optical waveguide, providing a layer of protection.
- It is usually made of plastic and has an outer diameter.
Additional Layers
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Armor Layer:
- Provides the main protective layer for the fiber optic cable.
- It is generally made of materials such as stainless steel, kevlar, or aluminum foil.
- The armor layer has an inner surface, and a gap often exists between it and the outer diameter of the cable jacket.
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Centering Element:
- Disposed in the gap between the fiber optic cable and the armor layer.
- Prevents the fiber optic cable from moving away from the center of the armored fiber optic cable towards the inner surface of the armor layer during winding.
- Helps to inhibit wavy armor and preserve the optical performance of the optical waveguide.
Outer Protective Layers
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Outer Jacket:
- Provides additional protection against abrasion, rodent damage, and twisting.
- It is usually made of durable plastic materials.
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Connectors:
- Attached to the ends of the armored fiber optic cable.
- Types include SMA905, FC/PC, and others.
- They provide a secure and reliable connection for the fiber optic cable to other devices or systems.
Special Features
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Double-Jacket Design:
- Some armored fiber optic cables feature a double-jacket design, which includes an outer layer of stainless steel tubing and an inner layer of PVC tubing.
- This design provides enhanced resistance to crushing, abrasion, cutting, and pulling.
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Light-Tight Construction:
- Ensures that light does not leak out of the fiber optic cable, maintaining the integrity of the transmitted signal.
In summary, the structure of Armored Fiber Cable is designed to provide maximum protection for the optical waveguide while maintaining excellent optical performance. The combination of multiple layers and materials ensures that the cable can withstand harsh environments and mechanical damage, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.