How to strip outdoor armored optical cables

Stripping outdoor armored optical cables requires careful removal of the outer jacket and armor using ripcords and specialized tools to avoid damaging the fibers inside.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting, gather the following tools: Sheath knife or cable slitterSide cutters or pliersNeedle-nose pliersSafety gloves and glassesCleaning materials for gel or adhesive under the armor (if present) Inspect the cable for visible damage and confirm the type (single-mode, multimode, armored type) to ensure proper handling and compatibility with your installation path.

Step-by-

Step Stripping Procedure1.

Outer Jacket and Armor Removal

Mark the armor at the desired length to expose the ripcords without cutting through them. Score the armor lightly with a sheath knife to create a starting point for the ripcords. Pull the ripcords at a 90-degree angle to slit the armor and outer jacket.

For cables with two ripcords, repeat on the opposite side. The outer jacket and armor should come off in two pieces. Clean any gel or adhesive under the armor using a safe, environmentally friendly product if present.

2.

Inner Jacket Removal

Cut a few inches of the inner jacket to expose inner ripcords. Nick and mark the inner jacket to the length you want removed, being careful not to damage the fibers. Pull the ripcords to remove the inner jacket, exposing the optical fibers for termination or splicing.

Safety Precautions

Always wear safety glasses to protect against sharp glass fibers. Use gloves to prevent cuts from armor or tools. Avoid excessive pulling, bending, or crushing, as this can damage the fibers and reduce performance.

Collect and dispose of cut armor and fiber scraps properly to prevent injury.

Best Practices

Strip each layer progressively rather than attempting to remove multiple layers at once. Maintain sharp cutting tools to ensure clean cuts and reduce the risk of fiber damage. Follow manufacturer-specific instructions for armored cable types, as some may have interlocking steel or Kevlar reinforcements.

Plan the cable pathway to avoid sharp bends and high-tension areas, especially for outdoor installations. By following these steps and precautions, you can safely strip outdoor armored optical cables while preserving the integrity of the fibers for reliable network performance.