If you’re a technician, you know that underground fiber optic cables are susceptible to damage from various sources. Repairing a broken line is a delicate process, but one that can be done relatively quickly if you have the right tools and knowledge. In this post, we’ll walk you through the process of repairing a torn underground fiber optic cable. By following these steps, you’ll be able to get your network back up and running in no time.
Underground fiber optic cable repair: A step-by-step guide
Repair is often the best option when a fiber optic cable is damaged. By repairing fiber optic cable, we mean either splicing or socketing the broken line. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to repair an underground fiber optic cable.
The first step is to locate the crash in the cable. This can be done by tracing the cord from its endpoint back to the source of the problem. Once the issue has been located, it is time to begin repair work.
Splicing is likely the most reasonable solution if the breakage is clean and there are no loose fibers. To do this, you will need to insert a splice sleeve into each end of the breakage. Next, you will need to fusion-splice the fibers together. Finally, you will need to insert the splice sleeve into a protection tube and fill it with joint compound. Once everything has healed, your repair should be complete.
If the breakage is dirty or there are loose fibers, then socketing is likely to be a better choice. To do this, you must strip away a portion of the jacket and buffer from each end of the break. Next, you must cleave the fibers and insert them into precision sleeves. Eventually, you will need to install an expansion dome over each sleeve and apply pressure until everything is secure. At this stage, your fiber optic cable repair must be completed.
No matter which repair method you choose, testing your work before considering the job complete is essential. Otherwise, you risk dealing with future problems down the road.
How long does it take to fix a broken fiber optic cable?
As you may know, fiber optic cable transmits data at high speeds. The wires are made up of thin glass or plastic strands and encased in a protective coating. When the cables are damaged, the data transmission can be disrupted. Depending on the extent of the damage, it may take some time to repair the line. In most cases, a technician will need to splice the broken ends of the cable together. This process can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the size of the breakage and the number of wires that need to be repaired. Once the splicing is complete, the specialist will need to test the repairs to ensure that data flows smoothly. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace sections of the cable altogether. However, with proper care and maintenance, fiber optic cables can last many years without needing repairs.
How to minimize damage to an underground fiber optic cable?
There are many ways to minimize damage to an underground fiber optic cable. One is to repair any breaks in the line as soon as possible. This will help to prevent water from seeping into the cable and causing further damage. Another way to protect the cord is to bury it using a method known as horizontal directional drilling. This involves drilling a hole parallel to the cable, through which the line can be passed. This method helps to protect the cable from being damaged by construction equipment or other objects that may be buried nearby. After all, it is essential to inspect the cable for any signs of damage regularly. If any damage is found, it is vital to fix it immediately to prevent further deterioration. By following these steps, you can help to minimize the risk of damaging underground fiber optic cords.
