Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A submarine optical fiber cable adapted for use in shallow-water submarine applications having the economy of non-armored cables with the robustness of armored cables is disclosed. The optical fiber cable comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending strength members arranged in a single layer around a single longitudinally extending central tube in a substantially close fitting manner. Disposed within the central tube is at least one optical fiber. In an illustrative example of the invention, six galvanized steel strength members are arranged in a close fitting manner around a hermetically sealed central steel tube, where the tube and the strength members have substantially identical outside diameters, so as to form a strong and stable shell. Plastic water-blocking material is disposed in the interstices between the strength members and the tube. Insulated conductors are disposed in grooves formed between adjacent strength members. An longitudinally extending annular plastic jacket is disposed about the strength members.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim