U-shaped fixing of optical cable

U-shaped brackets or clamps are used to securely fix optical cables to walls, poles, or towers, especially when the cable path is perpendicular to the mounting surface.

Purpose and Applications

U-shaped fixings are primarily used to anchor optical cables at suspension points where the cable changes direction or is perpendicular to a wall or pole. They are commonly applied in:

• Wall-mounted installations: When the hanging wire is perpendicular to the wall, U-shaped pull tabs or brackets are used to secure the cable and prevent sagging or stress at the bend points .
• Aerial installations on towers or poles: U-brackets guide optical fiber aerial cables down lattice towers or poles to joint boxes, ensuring proper alignment and stress distribution .
• ADSS (All Dielectric Self-Supporting) cables: U-shaped clamps act as suspension or tension fittings, providing grip and strain relief while maintaining cable integrity .

Installation Method

1. Mounting the Bracket: U-shaped brackets are fixed to the wall or pole using expansion bolts or through bolts. For wall installations, M12X100 bolts are used for larger suspension wires, while M10X80 bolts are suitable for smaller cables .
2. Securing the Cable: The optical cable is placed inside the U-shaped bracket and clamped using a U-shaped steel wire clamp or a preformed wire suspension grip. Protective backing rings or rubber inserts are often used to prevent bending stress and abrasion .
3. Orientation Adjustment: Some U-brackets allow a 90° rotation, enabling turned or angled fixing to accommodate cable routing along complex paths .
4. Spacing Considerations: For wall-mounted cables, brackets are typically spaced no more than 10 meters apart, with additional pull tabs at the ends to anchor the cable securely .

Advantages

• Stress Distribution: U-shaped clamps disperse static and dynamic stress, reducing the risk of fiber breakage or signal loss .
• Vibration Resistance: They improve vibration resistance, protecting the cable from wind-induced oscillations in aerial installations .
• Versatility: Suitable for various cable types, including ADSS, OPGW, and standard optical fiber cables, and adaptable to walls, poles, and towers .
• Ease of Installation: Preformed U-shaped brackets and clamps allow quick, maintenance-free installation with minimal tools .

Summary

U-shaped fixings are essential hardware for secure, reliable, and stress-free optical cable installation, particularly when cables are perpendicular to mounting surfaces or require precise guidance along towers and poles. Proper selection, spacing, and protective measures ensure long-term cable performance and safety.