Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) is a specialized type of cable used in the construction of overhead electric power transmission lines. Its genius lies in its dual-functionality: it serves as both a protective ground wire and a high-capacity fiber optic telecommunications cable.
OPGW fiber cable is designed to replace traditional static or shield wires on transmission towers. Its primary functions are:
Electrical Grounding: To shield the high-voltage conductors from lightning strikes by safely conducting the electrical surge to the ground. It also handles fault currents.
Data Transmission: To house and protect optical fibers, which are used for high-speed data communication.
This integration is highly efficient because it utilizes existing power line infrastructure (the towers) to deploy a robust fiber optic network, avoiding the high costs associated with digging trenches or erecting new poles.
How to Understand the OPGW Cable Specification?
- OPGW 12: Contains 12 optical fibers.
- OPGW 24: Contains 24 optical fibers.
- OPGW 48: Contains 48 optical fibers.
- OPGW 72: Contains 72 optical fibers.
These fiber counts are standard in the industry, typically increasing in multiples of 12. A higher fiber count provides greater bandwidth and network capacity. While a designation like OPGW 70 is less common than the standard multiples of 12, custom fiber counts can be manufactured for specific project requirements.
What are the opgw Construction and Advantages？
The construction of an OPGW cable is a key part of its design, engineered to protect the delicate optical fibers in a harsh environment.
Core: The optical fibers are housed in one or more protective tubes, usually made of stainless steel or aluminum. These tubes are often filled with a water-blocking gel to prevent moisture ingress and provide cushioning.
Armor/Strength Layers: Surrounding the core are layers of metallic wires. These wires are typically a combination of aluminum-clad steel (ACS) for strength and conductivity, and aluminum alloy wires to meet specific tensile strength and fault current ratings required for the power line.
Post time: Aug-01-2025