ADSS Cable Meaning
All-Dielectric Self-Supporting (ADSS) cables are a type of optical fiber cable uniquely capable of selfsupporting installation between structures, eliminating the need for conductive metal elements. Commonly utilized by electrical utilities, these cables are installed alongside existing overhead transmission lines, often using the same supports as electrical conductors.
ADSS cables offer a cost-effective alternative to OPGW (Optical Ground Wire) and OPAC (Optical Phase Conductor) cables. They are engineered for strength, enabling installations spanning up to 1000 meters between support towers. Their design focuses on being lightweight and having a small diameter to minimize the impact on tower structures from factors like cable weight, wind, and ice.
The cable's design ensures the internal glass optical fibers are supported with minimal strain, maintaining low optical loss over the cable's lifetime. A protective jacket shields the fibers from moisture and safeguards the cable's polymer strength components from solar UV radiation.
Types of the ADSS Cables
ADSS cables, distinct for not using any metal wires, utilize optical fibers that are either housed in loose buffer tubes or arranged in a ribbon-like configuration. To ensure minimal strain on the fibers, the design typically includes excess slack in the fibers compared to the length of the cable's supporting structure.
For installations requiring longer spans, a prevalent design incorporates aramid fiber yarns for strength. These yarns are coated to prevent water absorption. Surrounding this strength layer is a core composed of several buffer tubes, each containing multiple fibers, which in turn encircle a central plastic core.
An external sheath encases the entire structure, offering protection against water ingress and sunlight exposure.
The types of ADSS (All-Dielectric Self-Supporting) cable can primarily be differentiated based on their sheathing or jacketing, with the most common variations being single sheath and double sheath designs. Here's a brief overview of each:

Single Sheath ADSS Cable:
Construction:
This type features a single outer jacket layer. Lightweight: It's typically lighter than double sheath variants.
Applications:
Ideal for environments with lower risk of mechanical damage or where cable weight is a critical factor.
Cost-Efficient:
Generally more cost-effective due to less material usage.
Environmental Resistance:
Offers sufficient protection against UV rays, moisture, and minor abrasions.
Double Sheath ADSS Cable:
Construction:
Equipped with two layers of sheathing, an inner and an outer jacket.
Enhanced Protection:
Provides better mechanical protection, making it suitable for harsher environments.
Durability:
More resistant to abrasion, rodents, and other forms of physical damage.
Weight and Cost:
Heavier and typically more expensive than single sheath cables due to additional materials.
Applications:
Preferred in areas with higher potential for mechanical stress, such as regions with dense vegetation or frequent severe weather.
What Are the Applications of ADSS Cables?
ADSS (All-Dielectric Self-Supporting) cables are widely used in several areas:
Short Span Aerial Installations:
Ideal for roadside power poles due to their lightweight, selfsupporting design.
Near High-Voltage Power Lines:
Their non-metallic nature makes them safe for use close to highvoltage lines.
Telecommunications:
Employed in long-distance telecom networks, capable of supporting up to 100 km circuits without repeaters using single-mode fibers.
Utility Networks:
Used by power utilities for reliable communication within the power grid.
Rural Connectivity:
Useful for providing broadband in rural or hard-to-reach areas.
Military Use: Originally developed for military applications, they are still used for rapid deployment in field communications.
How to select the right ADSS cable?
Selecting the right ADSS (All-Dielectric Self- Supporting) cable involves considering several key factors to ensure it meets the specific requirements of your project. Here's a guide to help you make the right choice:
Span Length:
Choose based on the distance between support structures; Short spans like 80m, longer spans up to 1000m.
Fiber Count:
Decide on the number of fibers(6,12,24,48,96,144) needed for your data transmission requirements.
Fiber type:
Most popular is G.652.D Environmental Conditions: Consider factors like wind, ice, and UV exposure to determine the need for protective sheathing.
Proximity to Power Lines:
Ensure the cableʼs electrical characteristics are safe for installation near power lines.
Mechanical Loads:
Evaluate the cableʼs tensile strength and weight for installation and environmental stress resistance.
Cable Diameter and Weight:
Balance strength with the limitations of installation and support structures.