Fiber optic cabling can run underground, aerial, or even in subsea applications. So how do we protect these cables from nature’s harsh realities? This is where the fiber optic splice box comes in.
Fiber optic splice closures are small boxes made of sturdy plastic that contain some of the more sensitive cabling areas and protect them from the elements. As fiber optic networks have evolved and adapted, these closures have changed. Features they need include easy access, multiple placement options, and the ability to handle different joint types and member strengths. Learning more about the basics of fiber optic splice boxes can help you choose the right splice box and minimize project frustration when setting up your network.
What is Fiber Optic Splice Closure? And the Importance of Them
Fiber Optic Splice Closure, often abbreviated to FOSC, is a device used to provide space and protection for fiber optic cables that are spliced together. Protecting splicing points is crucial in fiber optic networks because optical fibers are fragile and sensitive to environmental factors. It securely connects and stores fiber optic cables in outdoor factories or indoor buildings. They have excellent mechanical strength and rugged housing to ensure harsh environments do not damage the joints. It is suitable for straight-through and branch connections of various structural optical cable laying methods such as overhead, pipeline, and direct burial.
Fiber optic splice closures safeguard the symphony of data transmission, ensuring that information flows uninterrupted and reliably through fiber optic networks. They:
(1) Ensure Continuity: Protect spliced points, preventing signal interruptions.
(2) Shield from Elements: Safeguard fibers from moisture, dust, and physical damage.
(3) Facilitate Growth: Support network expansion and additional connections.
(4) Enable Maintenance: Offer access for repairs without compromising fiber integrity.
(5) Prolong Network Life: Reduce downtime and costs, extending network lifespan.
Types of Fiber Optic Splice Closures
Fiber Optic Splice Closures (FOSCs) come in various designs to accommodate different installation scenarios and environmental conditions. Each type has its unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for specific applications.
For instance, some common distinctions include according to the shape and structure: Vertical fiber optic splice closure and horizontal fiber optic splice closure. Laying methods of fiber cable: Overhead, pipeline (tunnel), and direct buried types. Connection method of fiber cable: Straight-through connection and split-fiber connection. Sealing method: heat-shrinkable sealing types and mechanical sealing types.
1. Vertical Type Fiber Optic Splice Closure
Vertical Type Fiber Optic Splice Closure has a dome shape, also known as dome fiber optic splice closure. They are designed for applications where a vertical mounting orientation is preferred, such as utility poles or vertical surfaces. Usually multiple cable entry and exit ports on the bottom or sides to accommodate a variety of cable connections. Vertical enclosure is adapted to accommodate a variety of splice trays, making it ideal for higher splice capacity requirements. These closures protect environmental factors such as moisture, dust, and UV radiation, ensuring the integrity of the fiber optic connector. Commonly used in outdoor and aerial installations.
Structure of Vertical Type Fiber Optic Splice Closure:
(1) Base: This is the bottom or foundational component of the closure, which provides support and stability. It is usually installed within a manhole or handhole and serves as the anchor for the closure.
(2) Dome or Enclosure: The dome or enclosure is the central part of the closure that houses the optical fibers and the splicing trays. It is designed to protect the spliced fibers from environmental factors such as moisture, dust, and physical damage.
(3) Cover: The cover is the top part of the closure, and it is securely fastened to the dome or enclosure. It provides an additional layer of protection and ensures that the closure is environmentally sealed.
2. Horizontal Type Fiber Optic Splice Closure
Horizontal Fiber Optic Splice Closures have a wider, flatter design suitable for horizontal installation on walls or within cable vaults. They typically have multiple cable entry and exit ports on the front or sides, providing versatility for cable connections. Horizontal closure is often chosen to reduce cable count but can accommodate multiple splice trays. These seals also protect against environmental factors such as moisture and dust. Easy to maintain and ideal for situations where space constraints are less of a concern. Commonly used in indoor settings and horizontal surface installations.
It has a waterproof and dustproof design. If attached to a pole or suspended from wiring, these fiber optic splice boxes need to be securely held in place to avoid damage from weather and wind.
Structure of Horizontal Type Fiber Optic Splice Closure:
(1) Outer Sheath and Seal (Shell): The shell is the outermost layer of the joint box and is mainly responsible for the sealing function.
(2) Jacket Support Part (Bracket): The support part of the sheath is the skeleton of the connector box, including brackets, cable fixing clips, fiber optic accommodation trays, etc. They give the splice box a certain mechanical strength to resist the effects of lateral stress on the fiber.
(3) Connecting Parts (Connectors) in the Cable: The internal connecting parts of the optical cable are auxiliary parts for docking, such as metal sleeves or connecting splints that connect the reinforcing core, bridge wires that connect the aluminum sheaths of the optical cables at both ends of the joint, etc.
Key Considerations for Choosing Fiber Optic Splice Closures
The landscape of optical networks is intricate, particularly when it comes to the optical access segment, which demands unique functionality. An efficient fiber optic splice closure can mitigate a plethora of avoidable complications. For instance, in the realm of network distribution systems, a robust and long-lasting optical closure can obviate the need for frequent checks on the access link segment. As networks extend to the distribution stage and drop lines, a splice closure with the capacity to accommodate additional connections becomes indispensable. The following factors will guide you in choosing the most suitable fiber optic splice closures to safeguard the integrity of your network.
(1) Cable Compatibility
An ideal fiber optic closure must be adaptable to accommodate various types of fiber optic cables, as stipulated in the project specifications. Therefore, it is imperative to ascertain cable compatibility before selecting the appropriate closure type. The design of a fiber optic splice closure varies according to its intended application area. Consequently, a closure designed for aerial usage will differ in configuration from one intended for underground deployment.
(2) Cable Port Capacity
The term “cable port capacity” also denotes the capacity for cable entry. The number of ports in a fiber optic closure is indicative of its ability to manage the influx of cables. The cable entry capacity of a fiber optic splice closure refers to the number of ports available for cable termination within the closure. The number of ports provided in a closure hinges on several factors, including network capacity and the quantity of cables integrated into the network. Typically, to reduce the physical footprint of high-capacity closures, smaller ports are employed for branch cables and drop cables.
(3) Cable Termination System
When considering the splice closure type, it is essential to design a cable termination system that imparts substantial mechanical integrity between the cable and the closure to ensure consistent performance over its lifespan. Additionally, the materials used in fiber optic splice closures must be adept at mitigating or negating the effects of relative motion between cable components, given that materials used in optical fibers are prone to thermal expansion and contraction.
(4) Splice Types
The splice trays housed within the fiber optic splice closure may not accommodate an adequate number of cables unless splicing is executed meticulously. Generally, ribbon or mechanical splices possess larger dimensions, which could result in capacity constraints within the closure trays. A well-thought-out splice configuration can avert installation challenges and enhance overall performance. Thus, the choice of splice types should be a pivotal consideration when selecting a fiber splice closure.
(5) Bonding and Grounding
For the secure deployment and operation of the optical network, it is imperative to establish proper bonding and grounding of conductive elements.
(6) Hardware and Accessories
Aerial fiber optic closures may necessitate attachment to a messenger wire or a pole, depending on the network configuration. In both scenarios, supplementary hardware is required in conjunction with the closures. The hardware and accessories selected for attachment and securing purposes should be resilient enough to withstand wear and tear, as well as environmental stresses.
(7) Cable Management
Maintaining a low bend radius in fiber cable installations is paramount. Neglecting this factor could jeopardize the performance of the link. When making a choice, consider a fiber optic closure that facilitates efficient cable management. Moreover, splice closures that streamline installation can prevent undue stress or damage during handling.
Conclusion
The need for these enclosures becomes obvious when we consider the fragile nature of fiber optics and the different deployment scenarios for fiber optic cabling, whether underground, aerial or undersea. With its rugged construction and adaptability, FOSC rises to the challenge of protecting the most sensitive cabling areas from the elements. As technology continues to advance and the need for high-speed data transmission grows, the role of fiber optic splice boxes in maintaining connectivity remains critical.
If you need fiber optic splice closures, please feel free to contact us!
