Practical aspects of optical fibre cable: design and testing

Abstract

Principles of optical fibre cable design have been a secret art among cable manufacturers. Little is published regarding cable design and qualification test requirements with which cable manufacturers must comply.

The aim of this thesis is to describe the state—of—the—art in optical fibre and cable manufacture, including cable construction for particular applications.

The influence of mechanical and environmental conditions on cable design are presented together with test procedures. In addition, test methods and apparatus are described, and their limitations in practice are discussed. New approaches concerning fibre, cable design and construction, and manufacturing and testing technology are also discussed.

An example of an optical fibre cable with mechanical and environmental test report is presented in this thesis. This example demonstrates the development of a 2 — 3O optical fibre cable describing the practical aspects of cable design and analysis.

This thesis is the first comprehensive collection of material, to my knowledge, which covers the practical aspects of optical fibre cable design principles, analysis and testing from a manufacturer's perspective.