How to splice outdoor arm armor fiber optic cables

Splicing outdoor armored fiber optic cables requires careful sheath removal, fiber preparation, and precise fusion or mechanical splicing to ensure durability and low-loss connections.

Tools and Materials Needed

Fiber stripper and cleaverHeat shrink tubing and stainless steel (SS) splice tubesAlcohol wipes and lint-free TexwipesSide cutters and sheath knivesVise or cable clampFusion splicer or mechanical splice kitSafety gloves and eye protectionStep 1: Cable PreparationMeasure and mark the cable end for sheath removal, typically 3–5 inches from the end for OSP cables ( ). Score the outer sheath with a sheath knife around the circumference at the marked distance. Flex and crack the armor to separate it from the cable core.

Expose ripcords under the armor and pull them to slit the armor along the cable length ( ). Trim Kevlar fibers close to the jacket using scissors to prevent interference during splicing ( ). Step 2: Fiber PreparationStrip the fiber coating using a fiber stripper: For polyimide-coated fibers, char the coating lightly and clean with alcohol ( ).

For acrylate-coated fibers, mechanically remove the coating and clean with alcohol and Texwipe ( ). Clean the bare fiber thoroughly to remove any debris or residue. Cut fibers to the desired length and cleave them precisely for fusion splicing.

Step 3: Splice ProtectionSlide heat shrink tubing over the cable before splicing. Insert the fiber into a stainless steel splice tube for mechanical protection ( ). Use a fusion splicer to join the fibers, ensuring minimal insertion loss and proper alignment.

Shrink the heat shrink tubing over the splice to seal and protect it from moisture and mechanical stress. Step 4: Final AssemblyReinforce the splice area with additional Kevlar or protective layers if required. Test the splice for optical loss and continuity to ensure it meets performance standards ( ).

Secure the cable in trays, conduits, or outdoor enclosures to prevent bending or stress.

Best Practices

Never pull directly on the optical fibers; always handle the armored cable as a whole ( ). Maintain the minimum bend radius to avoid fiber breakage. Work in a clean, dry environment to prevent contamination.

Use proper personal protective equipment when cutting or handling armored cables. Following these steps ensures a durable, low-loss splice suitable for outdoor armored fiber optic installations, protecting the fibers from environmental hazards and mechanical stress ( ).