Key Differences Between Copper and Glass Optical Fiber We Need to Be Aware Of

by: FOC FAQ

OPTICAL CABLE: Ask FOC Ask FOC

Published: June 4, 2018

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QUESTION:

What are the key differences between copper and glass optical fiber we need to be aware of?

ANSWER:

Copper is a malleable metal that can be drawn or stretched, is relatively strong, has a relatively low thermal expansion and acts as a heat sink to the polymer during the extrusion process.

Glass optical fiber on the other hand is an engineered crystalline structure consisting of many layers and materials. We have glass and optical index of refraction additives in the core and cladding surrounded by the various ultraviolet-cured acrylate polymers that make up the optical fiber coating. This engineered assembly does not like stretch and in fact any strain shortens the optical glass lifetime. Due to the crystalline nature of glass there is no sheer strength in the fiber.

READ THE FULL BLOG ARTICLE HERE: Are all cable lines alike?

ADDITIONAL CONTENT & RESOURCES:

Category Resources:
- FOC Optical Cable
- Technical Horsepower Consulting Page
Find More Information in this Blog: Defining type and semi tight buffers as opposed to loose tubes in optical cables

Answered by AskFOC Technical Team: June 4, 2018

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FOC FAQ Fiber Optic Center has a team of technical experts and marketing strategists with decades of years in the field. This team contributes to the fiber, cable and specialty industries coverage through news, alerts, reports and general media information.

About Fiber Optic Center, Inc.

Fiber Optic Center, Inc., (FOC), is an international leader in distributing fiber optic components, equipment and supplies and has been helping customers make the best cable assemblies in the world for over two decades. Several areas of specialization and expertise, in which they are the industry leader, make them the preferred choice for many of the world’s fiber professionals. In these key technology areas, FOC is "at least as technical as the manufacturer" about the products they sell. Striving to "make the business part easy," they offer outstanding and personal customer service, low or no minimum purchase order values, and from-stock delivery on industry-leading products and technology. FOC is the industry connection to the most innovative optical products, technologies and technical experts who integrate their manufacturing knowledge and vast experience into customers' worldwide operations. @FiberOpticCntr

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