Armored fiber cables are specialized fiber optic cables reinforced with a protective layer (the "armor") to shield fragile glass fibers from physical damage and harsh environments. This extra layer provides superior crush resistance, protection against rodents, and durability for extreme weather or high-traffic areas.
Armored cables are generally categorized by the way the protective layer is constructed:Key Types of Armoring
- Interlocking Armor:Consists of aluminum or steel strips wrapped helically around the cable. It is highly flexible and common in both indoor and outdoor applications for superior crush resistance.
- Corrugated Armor:A coated steel tape folded longitudinally around the cable. It is primarily used outdoors to provide a robust barrier against moisture and rodent gnawing.
- Steel Wire Armor (SWA):Features galvanized steel wires wrapped around the core. This offers the highest tensile strength and is ideal for vertical or long-span aerial installations.
Comparison: Indoor vs. Outdoor
| Feature | Indoor Armored | Outdoor Armored |
| Typical Construction | Tight-buffered fibers | Loose-tube, gel-filled |
| Armor Material | Helical aluminum/stainless steel | Corrugated steel tape |
| Jacket | Flame-retardant (LSZH/PVC) | UV-resistant Polyethylene (PE) |
| Primary Use | Riser shafts, data centers, high-traffic | Direct burial, aerial, underwater |
Major Advantages
- Direct Burial:Eliminates the need for rigid conduit pipes, significantly reducing installation time and costs.
- Rodent Resistance:The metal layer effectively stops creatures like moles, gophers, or rats from chewing through to the fiber core.
- Enhanced Security:The reinforced exterior makes these cables much harder to tamper with, which is critical for high-security infrastructure.
- Longevity:While standard cables may last 10-15 years, armored versions can last 25 years or more due to their environmental resilience.