
QUESTION:
How are the environments in which copper and optical cable are produced different?
ANSWER:
The environment in which copper and optical cable are produced is different. Dust and contaminants for optical fiber as well as moisture can create problems for material that does not restrain polymer shrinkage. In copper insulation, thermal heating (preheating) helps maintain a good mechanical bond to the surface since the copper material itself acts as a heat sink and controls shrinkage without affecting its ability to conduct electrons. The same effect in optical fiber will cause compressive strain on the glass which is an engineered component. This would cause significant stain and attenuation increase over cooling and subsequent thermal cycling.
READ THE FULL BLOG ARTICLE HERE: Are all cable lines alike?
ADDITIONAL CONTENT & RESOURCES:
- Category Resources:
- Find More Information in this Blog: Defining type and semi tight buffers as opposed to loose tubes in optical cables

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