Introduction to Skeleton Optical Cable Products

Skeleton optical cables are high-density, compact fiber optic cables designed for efficient deployment in FTTH and access networks, offering flexibility, easy splicing, and cost-effective construction.

Overview

Skeleton optical cables are a type of fiber optic cable where optical fibers are embedded in a structured skeleton framework, often in U-shaped or SZ-shaped grooves, to provide mechanical support and maintain fiber integrity . They are widely used in FTTH (Fiber to the Home), FTTB (Fiber to the Building), and other access networks due to their compact size, high fiber density, and ease of installation .

Structure and Types

1. Full-Dry Skeleton Tight-Buffered Cable: In this design, optical fibers are placed in tight sleeves within the skeleton, eliminating the need for filling gels. This reduces construction complexity, prevents oil contamination, and improves moisture resistance . The fibers can be easily extracted for splicing or branching, making it ideal for indoor and distribution segments of FTTH networks.
2. Skeleton Ribbon Cable: Optical fibers are arranged in ribbon form within rectangular skeleton grooves. This allows high fiber density and efficient branching, enabling multiple fibers to be accessed without cutting the main cable . The skeleton provides structural support while maintaining flexibility.
3. Dry-Type Ribbon Skeleton Cable: Uses water-blocking tape around the skeleton to prevent moisture ingress. The tape expands upon contact with water, forming a barrier, while the outer polyethylene sheath provides protection .

Advantages

• High Fiber Density: Supports thousands of fiber cores in a compact diameter, saving pipeline space .
• Easy Construction and Maintenance: Fibers can be pulled out from skeleton grooves without cutting the main cable, simplifying splicing and branching .
• Mechanical Stability: Skeleton framework provides lateral pressure resistance and maintains fiber integrity under bending or environmental stress .
• Cost-Effective: Reduces material usage and installation time, lowering overall network deployment costs .
• Environmental Protection: Oil-free, gel-free designs are environmentally friendly and reduce compatibility issues .

Applications

Skeleton optical cables are primarily used in FTTH networks, connecting central offices to distribution points and ultimately to individual homes or buildings. They are suitable for:

• Feeder segments: From central office to distribution points.
• Distribution segments: From distribution points to network access points, requiring frequent branching.
• Home-entry cables: From access points to user premises, often using indoor or dual-purpose cables .

Manufacturing Principles

The production involves forming a central skeleton, embedding optical fibers in peripheral skeleton grooves, and extruding protective and sheath layers . Tight-buffered designs may use a full-dry process, avoiding gels and simplifying splicing. Ribbon-type skeleton cables require precise placement of fibers in grooves to maintain high density and flexibility .

Conclusion

Skeleton optical cables represent a modern, efficient solution for high-density fiber deployment, particularly in FTTH and access networks. Their compact structure, ease of installation, and high fiber density make them a preferred choice for operators seeking cost-effective and reliable optical network solutions .