The importance of optical fiber cable outer cover material and fire prevention level

Optical fiber cables are used to transmit data over long distances, making them an essential component of modern communication networks. The outer cover material of the cable is an important factor to consider, as it affects the durability, flexibility, and fire resistance of the cable. In this article, we will discuss the importance of the outer cover material of optical fiber cables and the fire prevention levels associated with them.

Importance of Outer Cover Material

The outer cover material of an optical fiber cable plays a crucial role in protecting the fiber from environmental factors such as moisture, temperature, and physical damage. It also affects the flexibility and durability of the cable. The following are some of the most commonly used outer cover materials for optical fiber cables:

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

PVC is a thermoplastic material that is commonly used for the outer cover of optical fiber cables. It is flexible and inexpensive, making it a popular choice for indoor cables. However, PVC has poor fire resistance and emits toxic gases when burned, making it unsuitable for outdoor or high-risk applications.

Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH)

LSZH is a thermoplastic material that is designed to emit minimal smoke and toxic gases when burned. It is commonly used for the outer cover of optical fiber cables in indoor and outdoor environments, especially in areas where fire safety is a concern.

Polyethylene (PE)

PE is a thermoplastic material that is used for the outer cover of optical fiber cables in outdoor environments. It is flexible, durable, and resistant to environmental factors such as moisture and temperature. However, PE has poor fire resistance and emits toxic gases when burned.

Armored Steel

Armored steel is a metal material that is used for the outer cover of optical fiber cables in high-risk environments. It provides excellent protection against physical damage and can withstand harsh environmental conditions. However, it is heavy and expensive, making it less common than other types of outer cover materials.

Fire Prevention Levels

The fire prevention level of an optical fiber cable refers to the degree of fire resistance of the cable's outer cover material. The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has developed a classification system for the fire prevention levels of cables, which is widely used in the industry. The following are the most commonly used fire prevention levels for optical fiber cables:

Flame Retardant (FR)

FR cables are designed to prevent the spread of fire and the emission of toxic gases when burned. They are commonly used in indoor environments where fire safety is a concern, such as commercial buildings and data centers.

Low Smoke (LS)

LS cables are designed to emit minimal smoke when burned, reducing the risk of smoke inhalation and improving visibility in case of fire. They are commonly used in indoor environments where large numbers of people are present, such as schools and hospitals.

Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH)

LSZH cables are designed to emit minimal smoke and toxic gases when burned. They are commonly used in indoor and outdoor environments where fire safety is a concern, such as airports, tunnels, and oil rigs.

Fire Resistant (FR)

FR cables are designed to maintain their integrity and function during a fire. They are commonly used in high-risk environments such as power plants and chemical factories.

Conclusion

The outer cover material of optical fiber cables is an essential factor to consider when selecting cables for different applications. The material affects the cable's flexibility, durability, and fire resistance. The fire prevention level of the cable's outer cover material is crucial to ensure the safety of people and property in case of fire. By understanding the importance of the outer cover material and fire prevention levels, you can choose the right cables for your specific application and ensure the reliable transmission of data over long distances.