The stranded loose tube cables offer the user a more robust solution, than the central tube cables and offer a solution for the higher fibre counts. Depending on the variant, up to a maximum fibre count of 312 fibres are standard; for certain constructions up to 864 fibres are possible. The stranded loose tube cables offer more options than any other cable construction family with regard to sheathing options.
All cables feature a black MDPE [medium density polyethylene] outer sheath. The MDPE has superior stability towards UV light and is extremely weatherproof. The MDPE give a tougher sheath than LDPE and is superior with regard to stress corrosion compared to HDPE.
Variants include:
PE sheathing onlyA standard or heavy layer of glass yarns under the sheath.
A layer of aramid yarns under the sheath
Double sheath with glass yarns in between
A steel tape armoring and double sheath
Orange PA 12 (Nylon) over sheath for added rodent protection and for added chemical resistance
ADSS aerial cable for intermediate and long spans
Self supporting aerial cable with steel messenger wire for short spans