How to strip the outer layer of an underground optical cable

To strip the outer layer of an underground optical cable, carefully score and remove the jacket and armor using appropriate tools while avoiding damage to the internal fibers and strength members.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Prepare the Cable and Workspace

• Ensure you have a clean, well-lit workspace and wear safety glasses to protect against fiber shards or sharp edges .
• Determine the length of cable you need to strip and mark the outer jacket accordingly .
• If the cable is armored, identify the armor layer and locate the ripcords for easier removal .

2. Score the Outer Jacket

• Use a hook blade knife or an optical fiber cable stripper to make a circular score around the outer jacket at the marked length .
• Be careful not to cut too deeply to avoid damaging the aramid yarn or fibers underneath .

3. Remove the Outer Jacket

• For armored cables, pull the ripcord at a 90-degree angle to cut through the armor and jacket cleanly .
• For non-armored cables, bend the scored jacket slightly until it breaks along the score line, then peel it off .
• Ensure the edge of the stripped jacket is clean and not torn, as jagged edges can interfere with connectorization .

4. Handle Strength Members

• Cut the exposed aramid yarn (Kevlar) to length using specialized scissors or cable-cutting tools . These fibers provide tensile strength and should not be damaged.
• Avoid nicking or cutting the fibers, as even minor damage can reduce the cable's pull strength .

5. Clean and Inspect

• Remove any gel or adhesive under the armor using a safe, environmentally friendly cleaner if present .
• Inspect the exposed fibers for damage before proceeding to strip the inner buffer coatings or perform splicing/termination .

6. Tools Commonly Used

• Optical fiber cable strippers with adjustable blade depth for jackets and coatings .
• Kevlar scissors for cutting strength members .
• Hook blade knives for scoring jackets .
• Needle-nose pliers for removing small pieces of sheath .

Safety Considerations

• Always wear eye protection and handle sharp tools carefully .
• Dispose of fiber scraps properly to prevent injury.
• Work slowly and methodically to avoid damaging the delicate fibers inside the cable .

By following these steps and using the correct tools, you can safely strip the outer layer of an underground optical cable while preserving the integrity of the internal fibers and strength members .