72-core ODF fiber optic cable fixing techniques

Proper fixing of 72-core ODF fiber optic cables involves secure cable inlet management, grounding, splicing, and organized fiber tray placement to ensure reliability and prevent damage.

Cable Inlet and Fixing

For 72-core cables, the cable inlet must be carefully prepared. Begin by peeling off the outer and inner jackets, removing the loose tube, and cleaning off any filling grease, leaving approximately 1.1–1.6 meters of fiber and 30–50 mm of steel core exposed for fixation . Use a cable pressing card or clamp to secure the cable along with its reinforcing steel core. If the cable diameter is below 10 mm, wrap adhesive tape around the fixing point to increase the diameter to 12 mm before clamping . This ensures a stable and secure inlet connection.

Grounding

Grounding is essential for safety and signal integrity. Most 72-core ODFs include a separate insulation earth unit. Connect the cable's steel core to the grounding point using the provided earth wire, following the project plan . Proper grounding prevents electrical hazards and protects the fibers from potential interference.

Splicing and Fiber Management

Fibers should be led into fusion splice trays, typically accommodating 12 cores per tray . Secure the fibers using nylon ties and ensure the bend radius is maintained to prevent microbending or signal loss. Heat shrink tubes or protective sleeves should be applied to spliced fibers, and the reinforced core should be fixed in the middle of the housing pipe before heating to integrate the joint . Use trays from the bottom up to maintain organized layering.

Sealing and Closure

After all fibers are spliced and laid in trays, seal the cable retainer near the inlet and the joints of the cable rings with sealing tape. Close any unused inlets with plugs, sealing exposed concave parts with tape to prevent dust or moisture ingress . This ensures long-term reliability and environmental protection.

Additional Tips

• Maintain a 30° obliquity of adapters to preserve the bend radius of patch cords and prevent laser damage .
• Use modular ODF designs for flexibility and easy expansion of capacity .
• Keep detailed splicing and distribution records for maintenance and troubleshooting . By following these techniques, 72-core ODF fiber optic cables can be securely fixed, properly grounded, and efficiently managed, ensuring optimal performance and longevity in FTTH, data center, or telecom network deployments.