OPGW Central Tube Fiber Optic Cable

The OPGW Central Tube Fiber Optic Cable is a type of overhead ground wire that also contains optical fibers within a central stainless steel tube. It is installed in high-voltage transmission lines and serves both as a lightning protection conductor and as a data transmission medium. Its design ensures excellent mechanical performance, electrical conductivity, and long-term fiber protection in harsh environments.

1. Structure & Design

• Central Stainless Steel Tube:
  Houses and protects the optical fibers (typically 12–48 cores) with water-blocking gel to prevent moisture ingress.

• Stranded Layers:
  Aluminum-clad steel wires and/or aluminum alloy wires are stranded around the central tube for tensile strength and conductivity.

• Outer Diameter:
  Varies by fiber count and mechanical specs, typically 11–18 mm.

• Armor & Corrosion Protection:
  Optional additional layers for enhanced corrosion resistance in coastal or industrial zones.

• Material Options:

  • Aluminum-Clad Steel (ACS): for strength and conductivity

  • Aluminum Alloy: for lighter weight

  • Stainless Steel Tube: for secure fiber containment

• Standards:
  Designed to comply with IEEE 1138, IEC 60794-4-10, and applicable power grid specifications.

2. Applications

• High-voltage and ultra-high-voltage power transmission lines

• Substation-to-substation communication

• Grid monitoring and control systems (SCADA)

• Optical fiber network backbone for utility companies

• Remote area communication in power distribution networks

3. Advantages

• Dual function: Acts as both ground wire and communication medium

• High tensile strength: Suitable for long span installations

• Excellent lightning protection: Discharges lightning current to ground

• Stable performance in harsh conditions: Wind, ice, temperature, corrosion

• Long service life: Designed for 30+ years in power line environments

• No additional right-of-way needed: Installed in existing power line infrastructure

4. FAQs

• Q1: What’s the difference between Central Tube and Layer Stranded OPGW?
  Central Tube OPGW has all fibers placed in a single stainless steel tube at the center, offering better protection and simpler structure. Layer Stranded OPGW distributes fibers in multiple tubes and is suitable for larger fiber counts.
• Q2: Can OPGW be installed on live lines?
  Yes, with proper tools and methods (e.g., helicopter or robotic stringing), live-line installation is possible.
• Q3: How many fibers can this cable support?
  Typical configurations range from 12 to 48 fibers; higher counts are available in Layer Stranded OPGW.
• Q4: Is it resistant to lightning strikes?
  Yes, its metallic structure is grounded and designed to safely conduct lightning currents.
• Q5: Can it be customized for coastal or high-pollution areas?
  Yes, anti-corrosive materials like all-ACS structure or extra coatings can be applied.