Types of sheaths used in Fibre Optic Cables

Each type of fibre optic cable sheath has its differences, mainly, its function is to cover the inside, but it has several advantages or disadvantages that make it unique.

So far there are 6 types of sheathing for fibre optic cables, these are PE (Polyethylene), LSZH (Zero halogen compound), PVC (Polyvinyl chloride), PUR (Polyurethane), PA (Polyamide), NBR (Nitrile rubber formulated with PVC), ETFE (Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene). We explain the advantages of each of these jackets, which are important to protect the inside of these high-speed digital communication cables.

PE: POLYETHYLENE

One of the great characteristics of polyethylene has been used for many years in the cable industry, mainly because it is a good dielectric. Usually, for fibre optics, this dielectric characteristic is not very relevant, but thanks to the fact that it can be easily processed and has a very low price, it has been used as a good option to cover these cables.

We can say that this material is based on hydrocarbon resins, the different resins that PE has are: LDPE, HDPE, MDPE and LLDPE.

LSZG: HALOGEN-FREE ROOFS

Another of the sheaths that make up the fibre cable are halogen-free, their function is to prevent or delay fires in the cable. Thanks to this type of sheathing, fire schedules can be avoided, remembering that this cabling is often found inside houses, buildings, offices, among others. Therefore, it is very important that these cables do not generate a fire and damage due to a temperature problem, which in turn can generate harmful gases.

PA: POLYAMIDE

Thanks to the polyamide sheath, the cables can easily move within the pipes or tracks through which they must pass. This is one of its advantages, but not the only one, as it also has abrasion resistance, moreover, it also has the advantage of good chemical resistance.
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PUR: POLYURETHANE

They have the advantages of being tough, abrasion resistant and flexible, which is a very important advantage for all cable sheathing. On the other hand, it is generally resistant to hydrocarbons and oils. It should also be noted that it has the ability to resist ultraviolet radiation or ozone.

FOR NBR: NITRILE COMPOUND

This type of sheath is resistant to hydrocarbons and oils, and is very flexible, making it one of the best sheaths for low temperatures. Another advantage is that it stands up well to sunlight and weathering, which is a good advantage for outdoor use.

PVC: POLYVINYL CHLORIDE

PVC has been used for many years in cables, it is a type of sheathing that has many excellent properties for cabling. Such is the case with their resistance to oxidation, ultraviolet rays, ozone, temperatures that can reach up to 100 degrees Celsius. In addition, they can be widely used because they are easy to process, have an extremely low price, therefore, they have become one of the most widely used materials in communication and energy cables as well.

The bad thing about PVC is that it has halogens, therefore, when it is used, it generates harmful gases that can harm people, especially when used in enclosed spaces. This is one of its big disadvantages, but it is still one of the most important coverings.

ETFE: ETHYLENE TETRAFLUOROETHYLENE

These coatings are made of fluorinated resin-type compounds, which have several advantages, such as low flammability, chemical resistance and a low coefficient of friction, so they can be easily moved. Moreover, it does not absorb moisture and resists very well to some hydrocarbons and oils.

If you want to know more about this and other topics related to fibre optics, and the elements that make it up, you can take a look at the rest of the articles in our blog.

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