What Is Armored Fiber Cable?

Armored fiber optic cable consists of a cable surrounded by a steel or aluminum jacket which is then covered with a polyethylence jacket to protect it from moisture and abrasion. It may be run aerially, installed in ducts, or placed in underground enclosures with special protection from dirt and clay intrusion.

Armored fiber optic cable is often installed in a network for added mechanical protection. Two armored fiber cable types exist: interlocking and corrugated. Interlocking armor is an aluminum armor that is helically wrapped around the cable and found in indoor and indoor/outdoor cables. It offers ruggedness and superior crush resistance. Corrugated armor is a coated steel tape folded around the cable longitudinally. It is found in outdoor cables and offers extra mechanical and rodent protection.