How does the Fiber In Metal Tube (FIMT) perform under high hydrostatic pressure (e.g., above 70 MPa)? Is there a risk of radial instability or collapse of the tube?
Fiber In Metal Tube (FIMT) structures are specifically designed to provide robust protection to the optical fiber in harsh environments, including those with high hydrostatic pressure. The metal tube, typically made from materials like stainless steel or high-strength alloys, acts as a primary barrier against external forces.
Under high hydrostatic pressure (e.g., above 70 MPa), the performance of an FIMT depends significantly on the material properties, wall thickness, and diameter of the metal tube. Well-engineered FIMT cables are designed to withstand considerable external pressure without experiencing radial instability or collapse. For extreme pressure environments, specialized designs such as thicker walls or multi-layered tubing are employed to enhance mechanical strength.
OFSCN® offers various seamless steel tube fiber optic cables engineered for demanding conditions. For applications involving high hydrostatic pressure, our products such as the OFSCN® Double-Layer High-Temperature Downhole Fiber Optic Cable are particularly suitable, designed to withstand pressures exceeding 150 MPa. Other FIMT solutions like the OFSCN® 200°C Seamless Steel Tube Fiber Cable, OFSCN® 300°C Seamless Steel Tube Fiber Cable, and OFSCN® 650/700°C Seamless Steel Tube Fiber Cable also provide excellent mechanical protection.
These products are engineered to withstand harsh conditions, ensuring reliable performance.