Optical Fiber Blowing: Precision in Network Installation

Optical fiber blowing is the technique used for installing optical fiber cables in pre-installed ducts. Also known as fiber blowing or fiber jetting, it has gained popularity due to its ability to reduce costs, optimize time, and ensure cable safety during the installation process.

At Incom, we are experts in this field, as we have the best business partners to offer our clients the best service. That’s why, in addition to recommending the necessary tools to carry out this process, we will also recommend some optical fiber blowing lubricants.

What is optical fiber blowing?

Optical fiber blowing involves using compressed air from blowing machines* to push cables through ducts or microducts. This airflow, combined with a mechanical pushing force, allows the cables to slide smoothly, minimizing friction and the risk of damage.

To achieve a successful installation, it is necessary to have high-quality lubricants to protect the cables, as this process is ideal for long-distance installations or complex terrains where traditional pulling methods are less effective.

At Incom, we like to stay at the forefront and offer our clients excellent service, which is why we have the first test circuit for optical fiber blowing, in collaboration with Fremco and Kaeser.

Advantages of optical fiber blowing.

Experts consider this technique to be the one that optimizes installations, in addition to saving time and money. Here are the five advantages we consider most relevant to the process.

Friction reduction.

The use of compressed air and specialized lubricants, such as those from Polywater's Prelube 2000 blowing line, significantly reduces friction between the cable and the duct walls.

Greater reach.

As mentioned earlier, the fiber blowing technique is used for installing cables or optical fiber over longer distances without the need for intermediate splices, which optimizes installation time and improves network efficiency and continuity, potentially reducing points of failure.

Cable protection.

This is the most important point experts look for when performing an installation. This technique reduces the risk of damage to the cable jacket, especially on curves or complex paths. Therefore, it is essential to choose the right cable blowing lubricant for the project.

Time and cost efficiency.

Undoubtedly the most attractive advantage for everyone: accelerating the installation process and reducing the costs associated with maintaining and repairing damaged cables. In other words, a long-term investment.

Adaptability.

The cable blowing process is not exclusive to optical fiber installation; it is also compatible with different types of cables and ducts, including microducts for more compact installations.

Best practices in optical fiber blowing

To ensure the success of the cable or optical fiber blowing process, it is essential to follow certain recommendations:

• Use a high-quality air compressor with a constant flow.
• Select ducts with an appropriate diameter for the cable.
• Apply specialized lubricants to reduce friction and facilitate sliding.
• Perform preliminary pressure and continuity tests on the ducts.

If you want to learn about the blowing process, we invite you to watch our video on optical fiber blowing.

Recommended products for optical fiber blowing

In the previous section, the use of specialized lubricants to reduce friction and facilitate sliding, thus protecting cables and the installation, was mentioned.

For this reason, Incom recommends the Polywater product line specifically designed to provide a satisfactory solution for optical fiber blowing.

We offer our clients the option of Polywater Prelube 2000, ideal for coating ducts before installation, reducing friction and increasing the length of installed runs.

Conclusions

Optical fiber blowing is, without a doubt, a technique that combines efficiency, precision, and care in network installation. With the right tools and products, such as those from Polywater, this process becomes a reliable solution for modern telecommunications projects.

Frequently asked questions.

What is optical fiber blowing?

It is a technique that uses compressed air to efficiently install optical fiber cables in ducts, reducing friction and damage.

What is blown optical fiber cable?

It is a cable designed to be installed by blowing, optimized to slide into ducts thanks to its coating and flexibility.

What happens if the optical fiber burns?

It is irreversibly damaged, losing its data transmission capacity, as the glass or plastic core is affected.