Aerial or overhead optical cables are placed utilizing methods similar to other
telecommunications cables. Aerial optical cable systems are constructed both using self
supporting design and standard optical fiber cables. Standard design cables should be
lashed to a preinstalled strand or overlashed onto an existing cable.
8.1 The optical cable can be pulled in from a reel onto rollers hung from the
strand or driven off and lashed. As fiber optic aerial cables are typically
manufactured and installed in long lengths, special consideration should be placed
on reel placement to eliminate the need to figure eight and mid-assist a series of
pulls.
NOTE: During drive-off installations the cable is fed from a spool on a moving truck and
lashed as it is installed. However, in order to perform this application the pole must be
free from lower obstructions.
8.2 Pulling machines designed to pull fiber optical cables are recommended to
enhance installation productivity.
8.3 When pulling the cable onto the rollers, pulling tension and bend radius
should be closely monitored to insure that the installation does not exceed
manufacturer’s recommended limits.
8.4 Roller Assemblies should be placed at all strategic locations including bends in
excess of 45 degrees normal.
8.5 Rollers or similar type of pole guard should be placed on any poles that
contact the cable to prevent damage. Attention to hanging straps or hardware
should be used to prevent cuts and sheath damage.
8.6 Slack loops at poles are not required but are recommended. Check specific
designs are aerial practices for the proper procedure. If applicable, a 4” slack
loop and pole guard placement is recommended. Otherwise straps and spacers
should be used to retain the cable securely to the strand above any equipment or
obstacle.
8.7 Splicing loops or cable slack loops which are designed into the system should
be left well out of climbing space and clearly marked with fiber optic warning
tags.
8.8 Fiber optic cables can be lashed to new strand using a standard lashing
machine.
8.9 Fiber optic cable can be over lashed to existing cables using a F/D sized or
modified lashing machine to accommodate the larger cable.
8.10 When over lashing large cable bundles the guide may have to be modified so
that the cable rides on the rollers.
8.11 A 1 inch to 1 1/2 inch PVC or PE flexible pipe can be installed at road
crossings and under bridges to provide additional cable protection.
8.12 Telecommunications installations use a standard 430 grade lashing wire.
8.13 Fiber cables typically weigh less than 100lbs/1000’. As such, double lashing
is not required, but can be used to provide additional protection over road
crossings and through trouble areas.
8.14 The preferred method for storing aerial cable slack splicing loops is to fold
the closure and excess cable up to the strand. Additional cable designs are
available, that are self-supporting. Two of these designs are Figure 8 Optical Fiber
Cable and Optical Power Ground Wire (OPGW). When installing these products,
refer to the manufacturer’s specifications.
