How are underground optical cables installed?

Underground fiber optic cables, also known as fiber optic cables, are an essential part of modern communication systems. They are responsible for transferring large amounts of data at high speeds over long distances. In order to install these cables underground, specialized techniques and equipment are required. In this article, we will explore the process of underground fiber optic cable installation.

Route planning:

The first step is to determine the route of the fiber optic cable. This involves surveying the area to identify obstacles, such as buildings, trees or other structures, and planning a route to avoid them. Routing should be as direct as possible to minimize the required cable length.

Trenching:

The second step is to dig trenches along the planned route. The trench should be deep enough to accommodate the fiber optic cable and any necessary protection, such as conduit or pipe. The trench should be wide enough to allow workers to access the fiber optic cable and perform any necessary maintenance.

Cable installation:

After the trench has been dug, the fiber optic cable can be installed. This involves laying the fiber optic cable in a trench and securing it in place with cable ties or other fasteners. Optical cables should be installed with sufficient slack to allow expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.

Stitching:

After the fiber optic cable is installed, it may be necessary to splice the lengths of fiber optic cable together. This is usually done using a fusion splicer, which uses heat to fuse the fiber ends together. Connectors should be protected with connector housings or other protective covers.

Test:

After a fiber optic cable is installed and spliced, it should be tested to ensure it is working properly. This may involve using an optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) to measure the length of the fiber optic cable and detect any defects or breaks in the fiber.

Backfill:

Finally backfill the trench with soil or other material to protect the cable and restore the surface to its original shape. Any surface features such as sidewalks or curbs should also be restored.

It is important to note that installing underground fiber optic cables requires specialized equipment and expertise. It should only be done by professionals with proper safety equipment and training.

In conclusion, the laying of underground fiber optic cables requires specialized equipment, technology and expertise. It was a complex process involving careful planning, excavation, cable placement, splicing and testing. However, once fiber optic cables are installed and tested, they will provide a reliable and efficient means of communication for many years to come.

FCST - Better FTTx, Better Life.

We have been designing, manufacturing and supplying passive components for fiber optical networks since 2003. Everything we do in FCST is designed to provide efficient, simple and innovative solutions to solve complicated tasks.

We offer 4 solutions

l FTTH ODN Solution

l Underground Cable Installation Solution

l Aerial Cable Installation Solution

l Fiber Tools & Test Solution

As a FTTx solution supplier, we can also do ODM according to project. We will continue to innovate and contribute more to the construction of the global optical fiber network.