Description
OPGW (Optical Fiber Composite Overhead Ground Wire) combines the function of a ground wire (lightning shielding and fault-current conduction) with optical fiber communication for voice, video, SCADA and grid monitoring.
Central Tube Design
In the central loose tube type, optical fibers are placed loosely in a sealed, water-resistant stainless steel tube filled with gel. The stainless optical tube is located at the center and protected by one or multiple layers of trapezoidal-shaped ACS and AA wires. This compact metallic structure provides:
- High mechanical strength for installation and operation
- Conductivity to control temperature rise during short-circuit conditions
- Smaller diameter with excellent sag-tension performance, ideal for replacing old earth wires
Typical Use Cases
- Old line renovation / retrofit projects
- 66kV / 110kV class lines (project-dependent)
- Fiber counts up to 48 where compact build is preferred
Specifications
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Span | Customized (typical: 150m–350m; per tower section design) |
| RTS (Rated Tensile Strength) | Customized (typical options: 30–90kN) |
| MAT (Max Allowable Tension) | Typically ≈40% of RTS (customized) |
| Short-Circuit Capacity (kA²s) | Customized (e.g., 50–200 kA²s) |
| Fiber Count | 24F / 36F / 48F (typical) |
| Optical Unit | Sealed stainless steel tube + water-blocking gel |
| Outer Wires | ACS (aluminum clad steel) + AA (aluminum alloy) |
| Temperature Range | -40°C to +70°C operating |
| Min. Bending Radius | Installation: 20×OD; Operation: 10×OD (unarmored) / 20×OD (armored) |
Key Benefits
Custom design to match sag-tension limits and kA²s requirement
Compact diameter for retrofit and reduced tower load
Sealed stainless tube for moisture and harsh environment protection
Lightning shielding + short-circuit current conduction (ground wire function)
