What is a "Steel Wire Rope" structure patch cord?

International Zone (English) OFSCN Knowledge Base (Public)
1

Why is the optical fiber placed inside a steel wire rope? Can it still remain as flexible as a standard rope?

2

A “Steel Wire Rope” structure patch cord, specifically the OFSCN® Steel Wire Rope Fiber Optic Patch Cord, is a specialized armored fiber optic cable designed for extreme mechanical protection while maintaining high flexibility.

1. Why is the optical fiber placed inside a steel wire rope?

The primary reason is high tensile strength and crush resistance. Standard patch cords rely on Kevlar for tension, which is insufficient for harsh industrial environments. By placing the optical fiber (which is itself protected inside a 0.9mm or 1.0mm stainless steel seamless tube) within a stranded steel wire structure, the cable gains several advantages:

  • Extreme Tensile Strength: It can withstand pulling forces exceeding 1200N to 1500N, which is significantly higher than standard cables.
  • Crush Resistance: The stranded steel wires act as a physical shield, protecting the delicate fiber from being crushed or stepped on (withstanding pressures over 150Mp to 200Mp).
  • Rodent and Cut Resistance: The all-metal exterior prevents damage from animals or accidental cuts in field environments.

2. Can it remain flexible?

Yes. Unlike a solid metal rod, the stranded “Steel Wire Rope” structure is designed to mimic the flexibility of a standard rope.

  • Stranded Design: Because the outer layer is composed of multiple thin stainless steel wires (e.g., 0.45mm or 0.6mm) twisted together, the cable can bend and coil easily.
  • Bending Radius: It maintains a manageable bending radius similar to heavy-duty industrial cables, making it suitable for temporary deployments, outdoor sensing, or mobile equipment where the cable is frequently moved.

Product Examples and Visuals:

Depending on your specific needs, OFSCN offers different diameters:

These products are ideal for applications where you need the durability of a steel cable but the signal capabilities of an optical fiber. If you are considering this for a specific project, could you clarify the operating temperature and installation environment? This will help determine if you need the PE jacketed version or the full metal version.