Armored Tube

What Is an Armored Tube?

An armored tube is a type of optical fiber cable that is designed with additional layers of protection to enhance its durability and resistance to external threats. It is commonly used in applications where the optical fiber needs to be safeguarded from mechanical stress, moisture, rodents, or other potential hazards.

What Are the Types of Armored Tubes?

There are various types of armored cables that provide enhanced protection for the fiber optic strands. Some common types of armored fiber optic cables include:

1. Interlocking Armor: Interlocking armored cables feature a rugged, flexible metal armor that consists of interlocking metal strips or helically wound metal tape. This armor provides excellent protection against physical damage, such as crushing or impact, while maintaining flexibility for ease of installation.

2. Corrugated Armor: Corrugated armored cables have a metal armor layer with a corrugated or ridged pattern. This design enhances the cable's flexibility while providing effective protection against external forces, including rodent bites, moisture, and crushing.

3. Aluminum Interlocking Armor: Some armored fiber optic cables use aluminum as the material for interlocking armor. Aluminum armor offers lightweight protection while maintaining high flexibility and durability.

4. Steel Tape Armor: Steel tape armored cables consist of flat steel tape that is wrapped around the cable. Steel tape provides robust protection against physical damage and is often used in harsh or rugged environments.

5. Stainless Steel Armor: Stainless steel armored cables utilize a stainless steel armor layer, offering excellent corrosion resistance and durability. These cables are suitable for installations where exposure to moisture or corrosive substances is a concern.

These are some examples of armored fiber optic cables that incorporate different types of armor for enhanced protection. The specific design and construction of armored cables may vary among manufacturers and applications.

Why Is an Armored Tube Used in an Optical Fiber?

An armored fiber optic cable is designed with an additional layer of protection to enhance its durability and resistance to external factors. The armored tube, or the overall armored construction, serves several purposes:

1. Physical Protection: The armored layer provides increased protection against physical damage to the fiber optic strands. It helps safeguard the delicate optical fibers from external forces such as crushing, impact, bending, or abrasion. This is especially important in rugged environments or areas where cables may be exposed to mechanical stresses or potential hazards.

2. Rodent and Pest Resistance: Armored fiber optic cables with a robust outer layer can deter rodents and other pests from damaging the cable. The armored tube acts as a barrier, making it more challenging for animals to chew through the cable and potentially disrupt the fiber optic communication.

3. Environmental Protection: Armored cables can offer improved resistance to environmental factors such as moisture, chemicals, and UV radiation. The armored tube helps shield the internal fibers from moisture ingress, chemical exposure, and sunlight, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the cable in harsh conditions.

4. Installation Durability: The armored construction adds strength and ruggedness to the cable, making it more resistant to damage during installation processes, including pulling, pushing, or twisting. The armored tube helps maintain the integrity of the cable during installation, reducing the risk of fiber breakage or signal loss.

It's important to note that the specific design and materials used in armored fiber optic cables may vary among manufacturers and applications. Different armored constructions, such as interlocking armor or corrugated armor, may be employed to achieve the desired level of protection and flexibility.