Superabsorbents for Optical Fiber Cable Applications
Superabsorbent polymersÌý(³§´¡±Ê)Ìýare commonly used to protect outside plant optical fiber cables from water penetrationÌý²¹²Ô»åÌýcan be applied in various forms in different sections of the cable,Ìýsuch as:ÌýÌý
- Over the central strength member, under the stranded buffer tubesÌý
- Within the buffer tube coreÌý
- Over the buffer tubes, under the metallic shield (if part of the design)Ìý
- Over the metallic shield, under the outer sheathÌý
TheÌýwaterblockingÌýfunctionalityÌýof SAP can be providedÌýbyÌýdirect application of powder or swellable hot melt adhesives, or by application of various substrates containing theÌýSAPÌýin either powder, liquid, or hot melt form.Ìý
ÌýZappa Stewart has supported the power cable industry, as its most trusted supplier of SAP for over 20 years, by providing superior products and customer service.Ìý
Features & Benefits
| Dynamic water blocking capabilityÌý | Less weight, lower cable OD (compared to gel filled cables)Ìý |
| Fast swelling speedÌý | Eliminates bio-hazard spills |
| Solid gel strengthÌý | Faster splicing and/or restoration |
See Our Products
Superabsorbent Polymers in Powder Form (SAP) have been used for decades to provide water blocking functionality required for under-ground and under-water cable application.Ìý Some characteristics include:
- Variety of particle size distribution available
- Applied using dusting electro-static deposition and other methods
- Custom blends with other components available
Superabsorbent liquids are used to apply with other cable components such as water-blocking yarns, tapes, and strings members. Some characteristics include:
- Ease of application
- Improves housekeeping (reduces dusting)
Water-soluble hot melt adhesives containing superabsorbent powders for applications directly on to various cable components.Ìý Some characteristics include:
- Adhesion functionality
- Improves housekeeping (reduces dusting)
- Very clean and controlled deposition
- Available in tacky and non-tacky finish
