18-SAMSS-625

Previous Issue: 12 June 2010 Next Planned Update: 6 November 2015

Revised paragraphs are indicated in the right margin Page 1 of 38

Primary contact: Ghamdi, Khalid Sulaiman on 966-3- 8745566

Copyright©Saudi Aramco 2010. All rights reserved.

Materials System Specification

18-SAMSS-625 6 November 2010 Outside Plant – Fiber Optic Cable Specifications (Single Mode & Multiple Mode)

Document Responsibility: Communications Standards Committee

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Table of Contents

1 Scope............................................................. 2

2 Conflicts and Deviations................................. 2

3 References..................................................... 2

4 Definitions and Abbreviations......................... 5

5 Specifications................................................. 7

6 Testing and Inspection................................. 29

Document Responsibility: Communications Standards Committee 18-SAMSS-625

Issue Date: 6 November 2010 Outside Plant – Fiber Optic Cable

Next Planned Update: 6 November 2015 Specifications (Single Mode & Multiple Mode)

Page 2 of 38

1 Scope

This specification covers mandatory requirements governing the construction and

performance of Long Haul single mode, and Inter and Intra building multimode Fiber

Optic Cable systems for Voice, Video, Data communications and Local and Wide Area

Network applications.

2 Conflicts and Deviations

Any deviations, providing less than the mandatory requirements of this standard require

written waiver approval as per Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedure SAEP-302.

3 References

The selection of material and equipment, and the design, construction, maintenance, and

repair of equipment and facilities covered by this specification shall comply with the

latest edition of the references listed below, unless otherwise noted.

3.1 Saudi Aramco References

Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedure

SAEP-302 Instructions for Obtaining a Waiver of a Mandatory

Saudi Aramco Engineering Requirement

Saudi Aramco Engineering Standard

SAES-T-624 Telecommunications Outside Plant-Fiber Optics

3.2 Industry Codes and Standards

Rural Development Utilities Program (formerly RUS)

RDUP PE 90 Specification for Filled Fiber Optic Cables

American Society for Testing and Materials

ASTM B736 Standard Specification for Aluminum Alloy and

Aluminum Clad Shielding Stock

ASTM D92 (Rev A) Standard Test Method for Flash and Fire Points by

Cleveland Open IP Designation

ASTM D566 Standard Test Method for Dropping Point of

Lubricating Grease IP Designation

ASTM D974 Standard Test Method for Acid and Base Numbers

by Color - Indicator Titration IP Designation

http://standards/docs/SAEP/PDF/SAEP-302.PDF

http://standards/docs/SAEP/PDF/SAEP-302.PDF

http://standards/docs/SAES/PDF/SAES-T-624.pdf




Page 3 of 38

ASTM D1238 Standard Test Method for Melt Flow Rates of

Thermoplastics by Extrusion Plastometer

ASTM D1248 Specification for Polyethylene Plastic Molding and

Extrusion Materials

ASTM D4565 Standard Test Method for Physical and

Environmental Performance Properties of

Insulations and Jackets for telecommunications

Wire and Cable

ASTM D4566 Standard Test Method for Electrical Performance

Properties of Insulations and Jackets for

Telecommunications Wire and Cable

International Telecommunications Union (ITU-T); Recommendations:

G.650 Definition and Test Methods for the Relevant

Parameters of Single-Mode Fibers

G.652 Characteristics of Single Mode Optical Fiber Cable

G.653 Characteristics of a Dispersion Shifted Single Mode

Optical Fiber Cable

G.655 Characteristics of a Non-Zero Dispersion Shifted

Single-Mode Optical Fiber Cable

G.656 Characteristics of a Fiber and Cable with Non-Zero

Dispersion for Wideband Optical Transport

Electronic Industries Association

EIA/TIA-455-20A Measurement of Change in Optical Transmittance

EIA/TIA-455-25B Repeated Impact Testing of Fiber Optic Cables and

Cable Assemblies

EIA/TIA-455-31C Fiber Tensile Proof Test Method

EIA/TIA-455-37A Low or High Temperature Bend Test for Fiber Optic

Cable

EIA/TIA-455-41A Compressive Loading Resistance of Fiber Optic

Cables

EIA/TIA-455-45B Method for Measuring Optical Fiber Geometry

Using a Laboratory Microscope

EIA/TIA-455-48B Measurements of Optical Fiber Cladding Diameter

Using Laser Based Instruments




Page 4 of 38

EIA/TIA-455-55C End View Methods for Measuring Coating and

Buffer Geometry of Optical Fibers

EIA/TIA-455-59 Measurements of Fiber Point Defects Using an

OTDR

EIA/TIA-455-61A Measurement of Fiber or Cable Attenuation Using

an OTDR

EIA/TIA-455-78A Spectral Attenuation Cutback Measurement for

Single Mode Optical Fibers

EIA/TIA-455-81B Compound Flow (Drip) Test for Filled Fiber Optic

Cables

EIA/TIA-455-85A Fiber Optic Cable Twist Test

EIA/TIA-455-104A Fiber Optic Cable Cyclic Flexing Test

EIA/TIA-455-164A Single Mode Fiber, Measurement of Mode Field

Diameter by Far-Field Scanning

EIA/TIA-455-167A Mode Field Diameter, Variable Aperture in the Far

Field

EIA/TIA-455-169A Chromatic Dispersion Measurement of Optical

Fibers by the Phase-Shift Method

EIA/TIA-455-173 Coating Geometry Measurement for Optical Fiber

Side View Method

EIA/TIA-455-175A Chromatic Dispersion Measurement of Single Mode

Optical Fibers by the Differential Phase Shift

Method

EIA/TIA-455-176 Measurements of Optical Fiber Cross Sectional

Geometry by the Automated Grey-Scale Analysis

EIA/TIA-455-177A Numerical Aperture Measurement of Graded Index

Fibers

EIA/TIA-455-178A Measurements of Strip Force for Mechanically

Removing Coatings from Optical Fibers

EIA/TIA-598-A Optical Fiber Cable Color Coding

International Electrotechnical Commission

IEC 60793 Optical Fibers, Part 2, Product Specifications

IEC 60794 Optical Fiber Cables, Part 1, Generic Specifications




Page 5 of 38

4 Definitions and Abbreviations

4.1 Definitions

Multimode: A fiber that allows more than one mode to propagate.

Single Mode: A fiber that supports the propagation of only one mode.

Fiber Core: The central region of an optical fiber through which most of the

optical power is transmitted.

Cladding: one or more layers of glass surrounding the core of a fiber, which

has a refractive index smaller than that of the core.

Core (Cladding) Concentricity Error: The distance between the core center

and the cladding center divided by the core diameter.

Core (Cladding) Non-Circularity: The difference between the diameters of

the circles defined by the core (cladding) tolerance field divided by the core

(cladding) diameter.

Chromatic Dispersion: A term used to describe the spreading of a light pulse

per unit source spectrum width in an optical fiber caused by the different group

velocities of the different wavelengths composing the source spectrum.

Chromatic Dispersion Coefficient: The chromatic dispersion per unit source

spectrum width and unit length of fiber usually expressed in ps/(nm.km).

Zero-Dispersion: The slope of the chromatic dispersion coefficient versus

wavelength curve at the zero dispersion wavelength.

Dispersion Shifted Fiber: A fiber which has the zero dispersion wavelength in

the 1550 nm wavelength region and which is optimized for use at wavelengths

around 1550 nm.

Dispersion Unshifted Fiber: A fiber which has the zero dispersion wavelength

around the 1300 nm wavelength region and which is optimized for use at

wavelengths around 1300 nm region.

Zero-Dispersion Wavelength: The wavelength at which the chromatic

dispersion approaches zero.

Polarization Mode Dispersion (PMD): Polarization mode dispersion is the

differential Group Delay time between two orthogonally polarized modes, which

cause pulse spreading in digital systems and distortions in analog systems.




Page 6 of 38

Cut-Off Wavelength: The wavelength at which the second order LP 11 mode

ceases to propagate in the fiber. Operational wavelengths longer than the cut-off

wavelength propagate as single mode while operational wavelengths shorter

than the cut-off wavelength propagate as multimode.

Mode Field: The single-mode field distribution giving rise to a spatial intensity

distribution in the fiber.

Numerical Aperture: The numerical aperture (NA) is the sine of the vertex

half-angle of the largest cone of rays that can enter or leave the core of an

optical fiber, multiplied by the refractive index of the medium in which the

vertex of the core is located.

Refractive Index: Ratio of the wavelength or phase velocity of an

electromagnetic wave (light) in a vacuum to that in a medium.

Refractive Index profiles: The distribution of the refractive index along a

diameter of an optical fiber.

Primary Coating: Layer of acrylate or other material covering the fiber

cladding layer.

Secondary Coating: Layer of material covering the primary coating.

4.2 Abbreviations

ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials

EIA/TIA Electronic industries Association/Telecommunications

Industry Association

RDUD Rural Development Utilities Program

IEC International Electrotechnical Commission

ITU-T International Telecommunications Union

(Telecommunications Sector)

°C Centigrade temperature scale

MHz-km Megahertz-kilometer

dB Decibel

dB/km Decibels per 1 kilometer

HDPE High density polyethylene

MDPE Medium Density polyethylene




Page 7 of 38

LDHMW Low density, high molecular weight polyethylene

LLDHMW Liner Low Density, High Molecular Weight polyethylene

ps/(nm.km) Picosecond per nanometer times kilometer

ps/(nm².km) Picosecond per nanometer squared times kilometer

5 Specifications

5.1 Single Mode Fiber

Three types of Single Mode Fiber Optic Cables are included in this specification

for use in Saudi Aramco:

a) Zero-Dispersion single mode fiber which has zero-dispersion wavelength

around 1310 nm and optimized for use in 1310 nm wavelength region, but

also useable in the 1550 nm region. The fiber core must have either a

matched or depressed clad step refractive index profile.

b) Dispersion-Shifted single mode fiber, which has a nominal zero-dispersion

wavelength, close to 1550 nm and optimized for use at wavelengths in the

region between 1550 nm and 1600 nm. The fiber core must have either a

segmented core design or depressed clad step refractive index profile.

c) Non-Zero Dispersion-Shifted single mode fiber whose chromatic

dispersion (absolute value) is greater than some non-zero value throughout

the wavelength range of anticipated use and optimized for use at

wavelengths in the region between 1550 nm and 1600 nm.

5.1.1 Material

The fiber material (core and cladding) shall be glass, covered by either

an ultraviolet-cured acrylate or other suitable coating. The core glass

shall be cylindrical. Other core geometry (elliptical) or special

asymmetrically doped cores designed to preserve the polarization of

light are not covered or allowed under this specification. All fibers

shall maintain their geometrical properties for a minimum required life

of 20 years.

5.1.2 Refractive Index Profile

The fiber shall exhibit a step refractive index profile with the exception

of dispersion-shifted and Non-Zero Dispersion Shifted fiber, which

may be manufactured with a segmented core that may more closely

approximate a graded refractive index.




Page 8 of 38

5.1.3 Mode Field Diameter

The fiber shall exhibit a nominally circular mode field diameter as

specified in Table 5.1:

Table 5.1 – Mode Field Diameter Specification

Fiber Type Wavelength Mode Field Diameter

Zero-Dispersion 1310 nm 8.6 - 9.5 µm (±10%)

Dispersion-Shifted 1550 nm 7.8 - 8.5 µm (±10%)

Non-Zero Dispersion Shifted 1550 nm 8 - 11 µm (±10%)

Mode Field Diameter shall be measured in accordance with any one of

the following test methods:

a. EIA/TIA-455-164;

b. EIA/TIA-455-165;

c. EIA/TIA-455-167; or

d. EIA/TIA-455-174.

Mode Field Concentricity Error

5.1.3.1.1 The mode field concentricity error at 1300 nm shall not

exceed 1.0 µm for Zero-Dispersion fiber.

5.1.3.1.2 The mode field concentricity error at 1550 nm shall not

exceed 1.0 µm for both Dispersion-Shifted and Non-Zero

Dispersion Shifted fiber.

5.1.3.1.3 Mode field concentricity error, for all single mode fibers,

shall be measured in accordance with any one of the

following test methods:

a. EIA/TIA-455-45B;

b. EIA/TIA-445-176.

5.1.4 Cladding

Dispersion Unshifted fiber shall be manufactured with either a matched

or depressed cladding configuration. Dispersion shifted fiber may be

manufactured with a segmented core that may provide the function of

cladding.




Page 9 of 38

5.1.4.1 Cladding Diameter

The cladding diameter shall be 125 µm ± 2 µm when

measured in accordance with any one of the following test

methods:

a. EIA/TIA-455-45B;

b. EIA/TIA-455-176;

c. EIA/TIA-455-48B, Methods A or B.

5.1.4.2 Cladding Non-circularity

Cladding non-circularity shall be less than 2% when

measured in accordance with any one of the following test

methods:

a. EIA/TIA-455-45B;

b. EIA/TIA-455-176.

5.1.5 Operational Wavelength

Zero-Dispersion fiber shall be manufactured to operate with center

wavelengths of both 1310 and 1550 nanometers, that is, be able to

meet attenuation, chromatic dispersion, and zero dispersion slope and

wavelength ranges for both operating wavelengths as required in the

following paragraphs.

Dispersion-Shifted and Non-Zero Dispersion Shifted fiber shall be

optimized to operate at a center wavelength of 1550 nm.

5.1.6 Cut-Off Wavelength

The fiber cut-off wavelength shall be less than 1260 nm for all types of

single mode fibers when measured in accordance with

EIA/TIA-455-170.

5.1.7 Center Wavelength Attenuation

The attenuation characteristics of the fiber shall not exceed the values

outlined in Table 5.2. Depending on user requirements, the user may

specify lower attenuation values.




Page 10 of 38

Table 5.2 – Attenuation Properties

Fiber Type Operational Wavelength

Attenuation (max) per Kilometer

Zero-Dispersion 1310 nm 1550 nm

0.5 dB 0.3 dB

Dispersion-Shifted 1550 nm 0.3 dB

Non-Zero Dispersion Shifted 1550 nm 0.3 dB

Commentary Notes:

The objective is to obtain the lowest possible attenuation. The lowest value depends on the fabrication process, fiber composition and design and cable design.

For Zero-Dispersion Fibers, values in the range 0.3-0.4 dB/km in the 1310 nm region and 0.17-0.25 dB/km in the 1550 nm region is achievable.

For Dispersion-Shifted and Non-Zero Dispersion Shifted Fibers, values in the range of 0.19-0.25 dB/km in the 1550 nm region is achievable.

The fiber attenuation measurements shall be made in accordance with

any one of the following test methods:

a. EIA/TIA-455-78A;

b. EIA/TIA-455-59; or

c. EIA/TIA-455-61.

5.1.7.1 Attenuation Over Wavelength Range

5.1.7.1.1 For Zero-Dispersion fibers, the attenuation

values for wavelengths in the range of 1285-

1330 nm and 1525-1575 nm within a cable

shall not exceed the attenuation at 1310 nm

and 1550 nm specified in Table 5.2 by more

than 0.1 dB per kilometer.

5.1.7.1.2 For Dispersion-Shifted and Non-Zero

Dispersion Shifted fibers; the attenuation

values for wavelengths in the range of 1525-

1575 nm within a cable shall not exceed the

attenuation at 1550 nm specified in Table 5.2

by more than 0.1 dB per kilometer.




Page 11 of 38

5.1.7.1.3 The test method used for measuring the

attenuation shall be in accordance with any of

the methods specified in Paragraph 5.1.7.

5.1.7.2 Discontinuities

Any attenuation discontinuity shall be less than 0.1 dB

when measured at 1310 ± 20 nm for Zero-Dispersion fiber,

and at 1550 ± 20 nm for Dispersion-Shifted and Non-Zero

Dispersion Shifted fiber when measured in accordance with

EIA/TIA-455-59.

5.1.8 Chromatic Dispersion

The fiber chromatic dispersion coefficient shall not exceed the values

given in Table 5.3. Depending on user requirements, the user may

specify lower chromatic dispersion coefficient values.

Table 5.3 – Chromatic Dispersion Coefficient Specifications

Fiber Type Wavelength

Range

Maximum Chromatic Dispersion Coefficient

[ps/(nm.km]

Zero-Dispersion 1288-1339 1271-1360

3.5 5.3

Dispersion-Shifted 1525-1575 3.5

Non-Zero Dispersion Shifted 1530-1565 6.0

Chromatic Dispersion Coefficient shall be measured in accordance

with either of the following test methods:

a. EIA/TIA-455-168A;

b. EIA/TIA-455-169A; or

c. EIA/TIA-455-175A.

5.1.8.1 Zero-Dispersion Slope

5.1.8.1.1 For Zero-Dispersion fiber, the zero-dispersion

wavelength shall be between 1295 and

1322 nanometers, and the maximum value of

the dispersion slope at the zero dispersion

wavelength shall not be greater than

0.092 ps/(nm².km) when-measured in

accordance with any one of the methods

specified in Paragraph 5.1.8.




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5.1.8.1.2 For Dispersion-Shifted and Non-Zero

Dispersion Shifted fibers, the zero-dispersion

wavelength shall be between 1525 and

1575 nanometers, and the maximum value of

the dispersion slope at the zero dispersion

wavelength shall not be greater than

0.085 ps/(nm².km) when measured in

accordance with any one of the test procedures

specified in Paragraph 5.1.8.

5.1.8.2 Polarization mode dispersion coefficient

PMD Coefficient is presently under study in ITU-T.

All single mode fiber optic cable is recommended to have a

PMD coefficient below 0.5 ps/km(1/2). This corresponds to a

PMD-limited transmission distance of about 400 km for

STM-64 systems.

Commentary Note:

Systems with lower bit rate distance requirement can tolerate higher values of PMD coefficient without any impairment.

5.2 Multimode Fiber

5.2.1 Material

The fiber material shall be glass. The core glass shall be cylindrical.

Other core geometry (elliptical) or special asymmetrically doped cores

designed to preserve the polarization of light are not allowed under this

specification. All fibers shall maintain their geometrical properties for

a minimum required life of 20 years.

5.2.2 Refractive Index Profile

The fiber shall exhibit a graded (parabolic) refractive index profile.

5.2.3 Core Diameter

The fiber shall exhibit a nominally circular core as specified in Table 5.4:




Page 13 of 38

Table 5.4 – Core Diameter Specifications

Wavelength Core Diameter (µm)

850 nm 62.5 ± 3.0 µm

1300 nm 62.5 ± 3.0 µm

Core Diameter shall be measured in accordance with any one of the

following test methods:

a. EIA/TIA-455-58A; or

b. EIA/TIA-455-176.

5.2.4 Core Non-circularity

The core non-circularity of multimode fibers shall not exceed 6% when

measured in accordance with any one of the following test methods:

a. EIA/TIA-455-45B; or

b. EIA/TIA-445-176.

5.2.5 Cladding Diameter

The cladding diameter shall be 125 ± 2 µm when measured in

accordance with any one of the following test methods:

a. EIA/TIA-455-45B;

b. EIA/TIA-455-176; or

c. EIA/TIA-455-48B, Methods A or B.

5.2.6 Cladding Non-circularity

Cladding non-circularity shall be less than 2% when measured in

accordance with any one of the following test methods:

a. EIA/TIA-455-45A;

b. EIA/TIA-455-176.

5.2.7 Attenuation

The attenuation characteristics of the fiber shall not exceed the values

outlined in Table 5.5. Depending on user requirements, the user may

specify lower attenuation values.




Page 14 of 38

Table 5.5 – Attenuation Specifications

Fiber Type Operational Wavelength

Maximum Value per kilometer

Multimode 62.5/125 850 nm 3.5 dB

Multimode 62.5/125 1300 nm 1.5 dB

The fiber attenuation measurements shall be made in accordance with

any one of the following test methods:

a. EIA/TIA-455-46A;

b. EIA/TIA-455-53A; or

c. EIA/TIA-455-61.

5.2.8 Discontinuities

Any attenuation discontinuity in the fiber length shall be less than 0.2

dB at 1300 ± 20 nm when measured in accordance with EIA/TIA-455-

59.

5.2.9 Bandwidth

The bandwidth of the multimode fibers at the -3 dB optical power of

the optical fibers shall be within the ranges given in Table 5.6.

Table 5.6 – Multimode Bandwidth Specifications

Fiber Type Wavelength Range

(nm) Bandwidth Range

[MHz-km]

Multimode 62.5/125 850 100-200

Multimode 62.5/125 1300 200-800

When measured in accordance with either of the following test

methods:

a. EIA/TIA-455-30B; or

b. EIA/TIA-455-51A.

5.2.10 Numerical Aperture

The numerical aperture for each multimode fiber in the cable shall be

0.275 ± 0.015 when measured in accordance with EIA/TIA-455-177A.




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5.3 Primary Coating

The optical fiber shall be coated with a suitable material to preserve the intrinsic

strength of the glass and protect the fiber. The protective material shall be free

from holes, splits, blisters and other imperfections and shall be as smooth and

concentric as is consistent with the best commercial practice.

5.3.1 Coating Diameter

The primary coating shall be 250 ± 15 µm in diameter when measured

in accordance with either EIA/TIA-455-55B or EIA/TIA 455-173.

5.3.2 Coating Material

The primary coating material shall consist of a heat or ultra violet

cured acrylic or silicone material compatible with all the components

and materials of the cable. The primary coating material shall be

continuous throughout a single length of fiber and of the same

material.

5.3.3 Coating Removal

The primary coating shall be easily removable without damage to the

fiber. The maximum force require to mechanically remove 25 mm of

protective fiber coating shall not exceed 13 Newton when measured in

accordance with EIA/TIA-455-178A. If chemicals are required to

soften the coating they shall be non-toxic and dermatologically safe.

5.3.4 Shrinkback

Shrinkback testing shall be performed in accordance with ASTM

D4565, Paragraph 14.1, using a talc bed at a temperature of 95°C.

Shrinkback shall not exceed 5% of the original 150 mm length of the

specimen. The total shrinkage of the specimen must be measured.

5.4 Secondary Coating

A fiber secondary coating is optional for fibers contained in loose tube or slotted

core assemblies. Fibers contained in tight buffer cable assemblies are required

to have a secondary coating.

5.4.1 Coating Diameter

The secondary coating shall have a diameter in the range of 250 to

900 µm when measured in accordance with either EIA/TIA-455-55B

or EIA/TIA-455-173.




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5.4.2 Coating Material

Materials used for the secondary coatings on fibers shall protect the

primary coating and fiber from exposure to water and the free OH-ion.

Materials use for the secondary coating shall compatible with all the

components and materials of the cable. The secondary coating

material shall be continuous throughout a single length of fiber and of

the same material.

5.4.3 Coating Removal

The secondary coating shall be easily removable without damage to the

fiber. If chemicals are required to soften the coating they shall be non-

toxic and dermatologically safe.

5.5 Fiber Tensile Strength

The individual coated fibers shall be proof tested prior to cabling at a minimum

tensile stress of 0.35 gigapascal (50,000 psi) when measured in accordance with

either EIA/TIA-455-31C or IEC 793 Part 2.

5.6 Allowed Splices

Factory splices of fibers are allowed provided that:

a. any attenuation discontinuity introduced does not exceed the value given

in paragraphs 5.1.7.2 and 5.2.8;

b. maximum attenuation values for the completed cable do not exceed the

values stated in Table 5.2 and Table 5.5;

c. no more than one splice occurs in any one fiber in any 10 kilometer

segment of finished cable; and

d. a record of all fiber splice locations within a cable is delivered with each

cable.

5.7 Fiber Containment

5.7.1 Allowable Types

Fibers may be contained by a loose tube, a slotted core, or a tight

buffered technique that provides the overall cable with the required

level of fiber tensile strain relief, micro bending resistance, crush

resistance, flexibility, and water blocking required in paragraphs

below. No more than twelve (12) fibers shall be placed in any one tube

or slot.




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5.7.2 Fiber Color Codes/Indexing

When more than one fiber is contained in a loose tube or slotted core

(Reference Paragraph 5.7.1), then each individual fiber within a tube or

slot shall be uniquely color coded for the full length of the cable.

When a single fiber is contained in a loose tube or slot, then, the tube

or slot color code or indexing method shall allow unique identification

of each fiber.

5.7.2.1 Each individual fiber in a tight-buffered cable shall be

uniquely color-coded for the full length of the cable. The

color-coding scheme shall remain constant for a given cable

type, from any single manufacturer, from cable to cable.

(The standards of colors and color-coding for fiber and

buffer tube shall be in accordance with RDUP PE 90

Section 4).

5.7.2.2 Fiber and Buffer Tube Identification

The colors designated for identification of loose buffer

tubes, tight tube buffer fibers and individual fibers in

multifiber tubes, slots or bundles are shown in the following

table:

Buffer Tube & Fiber No. Color

c. Blue

d. Orange

e. Green

f. Brown

g. Slate

h. White

i. Red

j. Black

k. Yellow

l. Violet

m. Rose

n. Aqua

o. Blue/Black Tracer

p. Orange/Black Tracer

q. Green/Black Tracer




Page 18 of 38

Buffer Tube & Fiber No. Color

r. Brown/Black Tracer

s. Slate/Black Tracer

t. White/Black Tracer

u. Red/Black Tracer

v. Black/Yellow Tracer

w. Yellow/Black Tracer

x. Violet/Black Tracer

y. Rose/Black Tracer

z Aqua/Black Tracer

5.7.2.3 Standards of Color

Except for the aqua color, the colors of fibers and tubes

supplied in accordance with this specification are specified

in terms of the Munsell Color System (ASTM D1535 - 89)

and must comply with the color limits as defined in

EIA/TIA-598-A.

Commentary Note:

A visual color standard meeting these requirements and entitled "Munsell Color Charts for Color Coding," may be obtained from the Munsell Color Company, Inc., 2441 North Calvert Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21218. The latest edition of the color standard should be used.

5.7.2.4 The aqua color limits using the Munsell Color System must

be as follows:

Munsell Notation

Symbol Aqua Color

Centered 10BG 7/6

H++ 5B 7/6

H-- 5BG 7/6

V++ 10BG 8/4

V-- 10BG 6/6

C++ None

C-- 1-BG 7/4




Page 19 of 38

Commentary Note:

Any other coloring scheme used for identification of buffer tubes and optical fibers will not be accepted.

5.7.2.5 Loose Tube Containment

When more than one loose tube containing fibers is used

within a cable and each individual fiber within the cable is

not uniquely color-coded, then the tubes shall be uniquely

color coded or indexed for the entire length of the cable

such that tubes can be positively identified at any point in

the cable.

5.7.2.6 Slotted Core Containment

If fibers are contained in slots and each individual fiber

within the cable is not uniquely color coded, then the slots

shall be indexed by coloring two adjacent slots, skipping a

slot, and coloring a third slot to provide positive slot and

rotation identification for the full length of the cable.

5.7.2.7 Tight Buffered Containment

Tight-buffered fibers shall be individually color coded as

specified in paragraph 5.7.2.

5.7.3 Geometry of Arrangement

Fiber containment shall be arranged so as to produce an overall

cylindrical cable shape. Non-metallic solid rods or strips may be used

to fill voids to achieve the overall desired geometry. Wrapping

material such as tape or thread may be used as core binding to secure

loose tubes into the required position during manufacture. Wrapping

material shall be applied to slotted rod containment to secure fibers in

position. Core binders shall be non-hygroscopic and non-wicking

dielectric material.

5.7.4 Filling

The interior of loose tubes containing fibers shall be filled with a

suitable material to prevent water penetration and to provide cushion to

the fibers. All interstices surrounding loose tubes, slotted rod, and

filler rods or strips shall be filled with a suitable material to prevent

water penetration. Filling material is not required for tight-buffered

cables. The filling material or solvents required to remove the filling




Page 20 of 38

material shall not pose any health hazard and shall be dermatologically

safe.

5.8 Cable Strength Member

5.8.1 Sheath type strength members shall be manufactured from aramid

cords or similar non-conductive, high tensile strength, high Young's

modulus and low elongation material.

5.8.2 Central strength members shall be fiberglass, or any other non-metallic

alternative material.

5.8.3 Strength members may be incorporated into the cable core as a central

support member or filler, as fillers between the fiber containment

members, as an annular serving over the cable core, as an annular

serving over the intermediate jacket, as an annular serving between a

tight buffered secondary coating and sub-cable jacket, embedded in the

outer jacket, or as a combination of any of these methods.

5.8.4 Cable sections containing spliced strength members shall meet the

same physical requirements as unspliced cable sections.

5.9 Inner Sheath

An inner sheath is required for loose tube or slotted core direct burial cable and

is optional for duct cable or tight-buffered direct burial cable.

5.9.1 Thickness

The inner sheath thickness shall have a nominal value of 1.2 mm.

The average thickness at any cross section shall not be less than 90%

of the nominal thickness. The minimum spot thickness shall not be

less than 80% of the nominal thickness.

5.9.2 Material

5.9.2.1 Direct Burial Cable

The material for direct burial cables shall be as specified in

Paragraph 5.11.1, with the exception that either black or

natural polyethylene may be used. In the case of natural

polyethylene, the requirements for absorption coefficient

and the inclusion of furnace black are waived.




Page 21 of 38

5.9.2.2 Duct Cable

5.9.2.2.1 For non-plenum or non-riser rated cable, the

optional inner sheath for duct cable shall use

one of the materials specified in Paragraph

5.11.1.

5.9.2.2.2 In the case of a duct cable requiring a plenum

or riser fire rating, the inner sheath material

shall be one of the following:

a. flame retarding PVC;

b. flame retarding polyurethane;

c. high temperature plenum fluoropolymer;

d. hytrel;

e. Teflon PFA; or

f. Teflon FEP.

5.9.3 Minor defects in the inner sheath (defects having a dimension of 3 mm

or less in any direction) may be repaired by means of heat fusing in

accordance with good commercial practices using sheath grade

compounds.

5.10 Moisture Barrier

A metallic moisture barrier is optional and shall be specified by the end user

depending on cable application requirements. If specified, then it must meet the

following requirements:

5.10.1 The metallic moisture barrier shall be aluminum tape and be

electrically conductive for the full length of the cable.

5.10.2 The tape shall be applied longitudinally with a minimum overlap of

3 mm and bonded (sealed).

5.10.3 The aluminum tape shall comply with the requirements for Type 1,

Class I tape as described in ASTM B736 or be a minimum of

0.175 mm thick and coated on both sides with a polymer film.

5.10.4 The aluminum tape shall be bonded to the inner sheath to form a

moisture barrier sheath.

5.10.5 All joints in the aluminum tape shall be welded. Any section of tape

containing a joint shall have a breaking strength not less than 80% of

non-jointed tape. The electrical resistance of a 1-meter tape section




Page 22 of 38

containing a joint shall not exceed 110% of an equivalent length

without a joint. The area of the joint shall be re-coated with polymer,

on both sides of the tape. No more than two joints are permitted per

500-meter length of cable. The joints shall have the same resistance to

water penetration as non-jointed tape.

5.11 Armor

Metallic armor is not required for direct burial or duct cables. (Refer to

SAES-T-624 for requirements). For special applications, if specified, then the

metallic armor shall meet the following requirements;

5.11.1 Material

Armor material shall be electrolytically chrome-plated steel, stainless

steel, or stainless steel/copper laminate.

5.11.2 Thickness

Armor thickness shall be 0.15 mm +10/-0%.

5.11.3 Bonding

Armor shall be bonded to itself either by a lap joint with adhesive

material or by welding. If a lap joint is used then the overlap shall be

greater than 3 mm. Armor shall be bonded to the outer sheath.

5.11.4 Filling

All interstices between the armor and inner sheath shall be filled with a

material that meets the requirements of Paragraph 5.12 to exclude

water in cables that use loose tubes, or slotted core fiber containment

techniques. Filling material is not required for tight-buffered cables.

5.11.5 Electrical Properties

Armor shall be continuous and electrically conductive for the entire

length of the cable.

5.11.6 Splices

Any I kilometer section of cable shall not contain more than one splice

in the armor. Splicing techniques shall preserve the electrical

properties specified in paragraph 5.10.5.

http://standards/docs/SAES/PDF/SAES-T-624.pdf




Page 23 of 38

5.11.7 Armor Repair

Repairs to the armor shall not be permitted.

5.12 Outer Sheath

The outer sheath shall provide the cable with a tough, flexible, protective

covering, which can withstand exposure to sunlight, to temperatures and to

stresses reasonably expected in normal installation and service. The outer

sheath for duct type cables shall conform to the requirements of Paragraph

5.11.1 through 5.11.1.7 below.

5.12.1 Material

The raw material used for the outer jacket of direct buried cable or

non-plenum/non-riser rated duct cable shall be one of the five types

listed in Paragraphs 5.11.1.1 through 5.11.1.5. The raw material shall

contain an antioxidant to provide long-term stabilization and the

materials shall contain a 2.60 ± 0.25% concentration of furnace black

to provide ultraviolet shielding. The raw material supplier shall

compound both the antioxidant and furnace black into the material.

5.12.1.1 Low-density high molecular weight polyethylene

(LDHMW) shall conform to the requirements of ASTM

D1248, Type 1, Class C, Category 4 or 5, Grade J3.

5.12.1.2 Low-density high molecular weight ethylene copolymer

(LDHMW) shall conform to the requirements of ASTM

D1248, Type I, Class C, Category 4 or 5, Grade J3.

5.12.1.3 Linear low-density high molecular weight polyethylene

(LLDHMW) shall-conform to the requirements of ASTM

D1248, Type I, Class C, Category 4 or 5, Grade J3.

5.12.1.4 High-density polyethylene (HD) shall conform to the

requirements of ASTM D1248, Type III, Class C, Category

4 or 5, Grade J4.

5.12.1.5 Medium-density polyethylene (MD) shall conform to the

requirements of ASTM D1248, Type II, Class C, Category

4 or 5, Grade J4.

5.12.1.6 The average particle size of the carbon black shall be less

than 20 µm.




Page 24 of 38

5.12.1.7 The outer sheath shall display an absorption coefficient

greater than 400.

5.12.1.8 The material used for the outer sheath for riser or plenum

rated duct cable shall be one of the types specified in

Paragraph 5.8.2.2.2 and shall meet the requirements of

Paragraphs 5.11.2 and 5.11.3.

5.12.2 Thickness

The outer sheath thickness shall be no less than 1.6 +O/-0.4 mm for

both direct buried and duct cables. The minimum spot thickness shall

not be less than so percent of the nominal thickness.

5.12.3 Eccentricity

The eccentricity of the outer sheath shall not exceed 40%.

5.12.4 The outer sheath material removed from or tested on the cable shall be

capable of meeting the requirements of Table 5.7.

5.12.5 Testing Procedures

The procedures for testing jacket specimens for compliance with

paragraph 5.12.4 shall be as follows;

5.12.5.1 Melt Flow Rate

The melt flow rate shall comply with ASTM D1238;

Condition E. Jacketing material shall be free from flooding

and filling compound.

5.12.5.2 Tensile strength and Ultimate Elongation

Test in accordance with ASTM D4565, using a jaw

separation speed of 500 mm per minute for low-density

material and 50 mm per minute for high and medium

density materials.

5.12.5.3 Environmental Stress Cracking

Test in accordance with ASTM D4565.

5.12.5.4 Shrinkback

Test in accordance with the procedures specified in

ASTM D4565 using a temperature of 100 ± 1°C for low




Page 25 of 38

density material and a test temperature of 115 ± 1°C for

high and medium density materials.

Table 5.7 – Outer Sheath Material Properties

Property LLDHMW Ethylene

Copolymer

LDHMW PE

HD or MD PE

Melt Flow Rate Percent increase from raw material, Maximum <0.41 (Initial Melt Index) 0.41-2.00 (Initial Melt Index)

100 50

50

50

Tensile Strength Minimum, MPa

12

12

16.5

Ultimate Elongation Minimum Percent

400

400

300

Environmental Stress Cracking Maximum Failures

0/10

2/10

2/10

Shrinkback Maximum, Percent

5

5

5

Impact Maximum, Failures

2/10

2/10

2/10

5.12.5.5 Impact

The test shall be performed in accordance with

ASTM D4565 using an impact force of 4 Newton-meters at

a temperature of -20 ± 2°C. A cracked or split jacket

constitutes failure.

5.13 Filling Compound

5.13.1 Type

The filling compound shall be a synthetic cable filling compound

suitable for use in tropical climates. It shall be neutral in color.

5.13.2 Drop Point

The drop point when measured in accordance with the test method of

ASTM D566 shall be at least 85°C.

5.13.3 Flash Point

The flash point when measured in accordance with the test method of

ASTM D92 shall be at least 200°C.




Page 26 of 38

5.13.4 Total Acid Value

The permissible value of acid when tested in accordance with

ASTM D974 shall be no more than the equivalent of 0.1 mg of

potassium hydroxide per gram of filling compound.

5.13.5 Compatibility

The filling compound shall be compatible with the primary coating, the

loose tubes or slotted core and all other components or materials of the

cable which it may contact and shall not affect the long term stability

of any of the other cable components.

5.13.6 Health Hazard

Filling material used or solvents required to remove the filling material

shall not pose any health hazard and shall be dermatologically safe.

5.13.7 The compound shall allow free movement of the fiber in the tube or

slot.

5.13.8 The filling compound shall not be silicon based.

5.14 Completed Cable

5.14.1 Bend Radius during Installation

All cable supplied in compliance with this specification shall be capable

of bending to a radius of 20 times the outer sheath diameter while under

the maximum installation tension requirement stated in Paragraph 5.13.4

without sustaining any damage to any cable component and without

degrading the 20 year life expectancy of the cable.

5.14.2 Installed Bend Radius

All cable supplied in compliance with this specification shall be

capable of being bent to a radius of 10 times the outer sheath diameter

under no tension. The cable shall be capable of withstanding an

installed bend radius of 10 times the outer sheath diameter without

sustaining any damage to any cable component and without degrading

the optical characteristics over the 20-year life expectancy of the cable.

5.14.3 Tensile Strength

Direct burial cable shall withstand application of a tensile force greater

than 2000 Newton with no degradation of the optical or mechanical




Page 27 of 38

properties of the cable. Duct cable shall withstand application of a

tensile force of 1000 Newton with no degradation of the optical or

mechanical properties of the cable.

5.14.4 Crush

Direct burial cable shall withstand application of a 440 N/cm load with

no degradation of the optical or mechanical properties of the cable.

Duct cable shall withstand the application of a 220 N/cm load with no

degradation of the optical or mechanical properties of the cable.

5.14.5 Marking

Each fiber cable shall be marked on the outer jacket, with the following

information in high contrast letters no less than 3 mm in height:

a. Continuous sequentially numbered length markers at intervals of

not more than 2 m with an accuracy of +1/-0% of actual cable

length;

b. Optical Cable, OC, Optical Fiber Cable, or OF;

c. Number of fibers.

5.14.6 Environmental Requirements

All cable supplied in compliance with this specification shall be

capable of withstanding the environmental conditions stated below for

a minimum period of 20 years without detriment to the transmission or

operation and maintenance characteristics of the cable.

5.14.7 Temperature

Direct buried and duct cables must be capable of being installed and

operated with the temperature between -30 and +70°C.

5.15 Cable Lengths

5.15.1 Manufacturers shall be capable of supplying direct burial cable in

uninterrupted lengths of not less than 3 km, and duct cable in

uninterrupted lengths of not less than 2 km. Manufacturer to specify

other available standard cable length reels.

5.15.2 Pulling Eyes

All specified duct cable shall be capable of being field fitted with a

pulling eye. Manufacturer shall provide instructions for field fitting a




Page 28 of 38

pulling eye.

5.16 Cable Reels

The cable shall be shipped on non-returnable reels. Each length of cable shall

be wound on a separate cable reel. Saudi Aramco shall specify the actual cable

length per reel. The reels shall be so constructed as to prevent damage during

shipment and handling during installation. Duct cable reels shall be provided

with cable pulling eyes.

5.16.1 Diameter

The diameter of drum shall be large enough to prevent damage to the

cable from reeling and unreeling.

5.16.2 Arbor Hole size

The arbor hole shall admit a spindle 63.5 mm in diameter without

binding.

5.16.3 Wrapping and Packing

5.16.3.1 The outer end of the cable shall be securely fastened to

prevent the cable from coming loose during transit.

The inner end of the cable shall project through a slot in the

flange of the reel, around an inner riser, or into a recess on

the reel flange near the drum and be fastened in such a way

to prevent the cable from becoming loose during installation.

Battens shall be fastened across the inside edges of the reel

flange to protect the exposed cable during transit. Spikes,

staples or other fastening devices must be used in a manner,

which will not result in penetration of the cable.

5.16.3.2 Each reel shall be plainly marked to indicate the direction in

which it should be rolled to prevent loosening of the cable

on the reel.

Each reel must be stenciled or lettered with the name of the

manufacturer

5.16.3.3 The following information must be either stenciled on the

reel or on a tag firmly attached to the reel:

a. OPTICAL CABLE (Single mode –Zero

Dispersion/Dispersion Shifted/Non-Zero Dispersion

Shifted, Multimode)




Page 29 of 38

b. Number of Fibers

c. Armored or Non-Armored

d. Year of Manufacturer

e. Length of Cable

f. Reel Number

g. The corresponding Saudi Aramco SAMSS and

Revision date

h. Name of cable manufacturer

i. Manufacturer part number

6 Testing and Inspection

These tests are intended for qualification of initial cable designs and major

modifications of "accepted" designs. What constitutes a "major" modification is at the

discretion of Consulting Services Department (CSD) of Saudi Aramco. These tests are

intended to show the inherent capability of the manufacturer to produce cable products

that have satisfactory performance characteristics, long life and long-term optical

stability but are not intended as field tests.

Commentary Note:

All fiber-optic cables should be purchased from the approved list of Saudi Aramco vendors only (RVL-Regulated vendor list). Certificate of compliance to Saudi Aramco standards and requirements from a reputable testing agency and a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) by qualified Saudi Aramco personnel is required to be an approved Saudi Aramco vendor.

Testing standards and procedures other than those specifically referenced by this

specification may be allowed if accepted by Saudi Aramco. Justification for substitution

of alternate testing standards/procedures and a statement of the standards/procedures to be

used for cable qualification shall be provided to Saudi Aramco for approval.

6.1 Initial Acceptance

For initial acceptance, the manufacturer must submit:

a. An original signature certification that the product fully complies with

each section of this specification;

b. Provide certified Qualification Test data;

c. A set of instructions for handling the cable;

d. Material Safety Data Sheets for all components; and




Page 30 of 38

e. Agree to periodic plant inspections.

6.2 Cable Tests and Technical Data Requirements

The following tests and technical data are required for 100% of completed cable.

6.2.1 The armor (if provided) for each length of cable shall be tested for

continuity using the procedures of ASTM D4566.

6.2.2 The attenuation of each optical fiber of each finished cable shall be

measured according to one of the procedures listed in Paragraphs 5.1.7

or 5.2.7, and a record of the test results shall be delivered to the

procuring agency for each delivered cable reel.

6.2.3 Optical discontinuities shall be isolated and their location and

amplitude recorded. The record shall be delivered to the procuring

agency with the cable for each fiber in each cable.

6.2.4 A cross-sectional diagram of each cable showing fiber counts, cable

dimensions and materials, and manufacturers part number shall be

provided.

6.3 Capability Tests

Tests on a quality assurance basis shall be made as frequently as is required by

the manufacturer to determine and maintain compliance with requirements such

as the following:

a. Cut off wavelength per Paragraph 5.1.6;

b. Chromatic dispersion per Paragraph 5.1.8;

c. Bandwidth per Paragraph 5.2.9;

d. Adhesion properties of the protective fiber coating per Paragraph 5.4.3;

e. Dielectric strength between metallic members in the cable per Paragraph

5.7.3;

f. Requirements for inner sheath materials per Paragraphs 5.8.2 and 5.8.3;

g. Properties of the coated moisture barrier material per Paragraph 5.9;

h. Properties of the armor material per Paragraph 5.10;

i. Requirements for outer sheath materials per Paragraph 5.11.1.6 through

5.11.5.5;

j. Requirements for filling compounds per Paragraph 5.12;

k. Cable bend requirements/test per Paragraphs 5.13.1, 5.13.2 and 6.5.2;




Page 31 of 38

l. Sequential marking and lettering per Paragraph 5.13.6;

m. Water penetration, sheath slip, and temperature tests per Paragraphs 6.5.7

through 6.5.13;

n. Compound flow test per Paragraph 6.5.1;

o. Cable impact test per Paragraph 5.11.5.5 or 6.5.3;

p. Cable compression test per Paragraph 6.5.4;

q. Cable twist test per Paragraph 6.5.5; and

r. Cable flex test per Paragraph 6.5.6.

6.4 Records of Optical and Physical Tests

Each manufacturer shall maintain suitable records for a period of at least 3 years

of all optical and physical tests required by this specification on completed cable

as set forth in Paragraph 6.3. The test data for a particular reel shall be in a form

that it may be readily available to Saudi Aramco upon request. The optical data

shall be furnished to the purchasing agency on a suitable and easily readable

form.

6.5 Qualification Test Methods

The following test procedures are for qualification tests not previously described

in this standard.

6.5.1 Compound Flow Test (Flooded Designs only, Not applicable to tight

buffered cables):

a. Three (3) each 300 mm long test samples shall be preconditioned

for 24 hours at 23 ± 5°C and then tested in accordance with

EIA/TIA-455-81A using a test temperature of 80 ± 1°C.

b. The amount of filling or flooding compounds that flowed or

dripped from any of the suspended cable specimens shall be less

than or equal to 0.5 grams of material.

c. The measurement of an amount greater than 0.5 grams for any of

the suspended cable specimens shall constitute a failure.

6.5.2 Cable Bend Test

All cables manufactured in accordance with the requirements of this

specification shall be capable of meeting the following bend test

without exhibiting an increase in fiber attenuation greater than 0.10 dB

for single mode fiber and 0.40 for multimode fiber:




Page 32 of 38

a. Measure the attenuation of Zero-dispersion fibers at 1310 ± 20

and 1550 ± 20 manometers; and, the attenuation of dispersion

shifted and Non-Zero dispersion shifted fibers at 1550 ± 20

nanometers.

b. After measuring the attenuation of the optical fibers, test the

cable sample in accordance with EIA/TIA-445-37A, Test

Condition E and Turns Test Level 3.

c. The following detailed test conditions shall apply:

1) Section 4.2 - Mandrel diameter shall be 20 times the cable

diameter.

2) Section 4.5 - Measure the attenuation increase of the wound

sample at the test temperature and specified wavelengths in

accordance with EIA/TIA-455-20A.

3) For armored cable, the armor overlap shall be on the outside

of the bend.

4) For self-supporting cable, the jacketed support messenger

and connection web shall be removed prior to testing.

d. The cable may be allowed to warm-up to room temperature

before visual inspection. The bent area of the cable shall not

show visible evidence of fracture of the jacket, delamination of

the armor bond at the overlap (armored cable only) or a

separation of the armor to the outer sheath (armored cable only).

6.5.3 Cable Impact Test


specification shall be capable of meeting one of the following impact

tests with an increase in fiber attenuation of less than 0.10 dB for

single mode fiber and 0.40 for multimode fiber from the measured

attenuation value, and without cracking or splitting of the cable sheath.

6.5.3.1 Option One

a. Measure the attenuation of the optical fibers in

accordance with Paragraph 6.5.2.b.

b. After measuring the attenuation of the optical fibers,

test the cable in accordance with EIA/TIA-455-25A.

6.5.3.2 Option Two

a. Cable shall be tested according to IEC 794-1-E4.




Page 33 of 38

b. The mass of the weight shall be 2 kg and the height

shall be one (1) m.

c. The increase in attenuation shall be less than 0.1 dB at

1550 nm and 1310 nm.

d. There shall be no damage to any of the cable

components.

6.5.4 Cable Compression Test


specification, shall be capable of meeting one of the following

compressive strength tests with an increase in fiber attenuation of less

than 0.10 dB for single mode fiber and 0.40 for multimode fiber from

the measured attenuation value, and without cracking or splitting of the

cable when subjected to a minimum compressive load of 440 N/cm for

direct buried cable, and 220 N/cm for duct cable.

6.5.4.1 Option One

a. Measure the attenuation of the optical fibers in

accordance with Paragraph 6.5.2.b.

b. After measuring the attenuation of the-optical fibers,

test the cable in accordance with EIA/TIA-455-41A

using a rate of 5 mm per minute and maintaining the

load for 15 minutes.

6.5.4.2 Option Two

a. Cable shall be tested according to IEC 794-1-E3.

b. A load of 440 N/cm shall be gradually applied and

maintained for a period of two hours for direct buried

cable.

c. A load of 220 N/cm shall be gradually applied and

maintained for a period of ten minutes for duct cable.

6.5.5 Cable Twist Test


specification shall be capable of meeting the following twist test with

an increase in fiber attenuation of less than 0.10 dB for single mode

fiber and 0.40 for multimode fiber of the measured value, and without

cracking or splitting of the cable sheath.




Page 34 of 38

a. Measure the attenuation of the optical fibers in accordance with

Paragraph 6.5.2.b.


cable in accordance with EIA/TIA-455-85A, using a maximum

cable twisting length of 4 meters.

6.5.6 Cable Flex Test


specification shall be capable of meeting the following flex test with an

increase in fiber attenuation of less than 0.10 dB for single mode fiber

and 0.40 for multimode fiber of the measured value:

a. Measure the attenuation of the optical fibers in accordance with

Paragraph 6.5.2.b.


cable in accordance with EIA/TIA-455-104A, Test conditions I

and II, flexed for 25 cycles using a sheave diameter not less than

20 times the cable diameter (Test condition letter B).

c. After completion of the test, the bent area of the cable shall not

show visible evidence of fracture of the jacket, delamination of

the armor bond at the overlap (armored cable only) or a

separation of the armor to the outer jacket lamination in non-

flooded cable (armored cable only).

d. After removal of the outer sheath, there shall be no visible

evidence of fracture of the armor, when present, and of the

components in the core.

6.5.7 Tests Requiring Temperature Pre-Conditioning

a. All testing shall be performed on lengths removed sequentially

from a given cable manufacturing "run".

b. The cable samples shall not have been exposed to temperatures in

excess of 38°C since their initial cool downs after sheathing.

c. Unless otherwise specified, all measurement shall be made at 23

± 5°C.

d. The following sample types will be used for testing. Specified

sample lengths are minimum lengths:

1. Sample A: This fiber cable sample shall have a minimum

length of 500 ± 1 m. Coil the sample with a diameter of 15




Page 35 of 38

to 20 times its sheath diameter. Three (3) samples are

required.

2. Sample B: This fiber cable sample shall have a minimum

length of one (1) m. Four (4) samples are required.

3. Sample C: This fiber cable sample shall have a minimum

length of 600 mm. Four (4) samples are required.

6.5.8 Heat Aging Test

6.5.8.1 Test Samples

Place one sample of each type of samples specified in

Paragraph 6.5.7.d in an oven or environmental chamber.

The ends of Sample A shall exit from the chamber or oven

to enable performance of optical properties tests. Securely

seal the oven exit holes.

6.5.8.2 Sequence of Tests

The samples are to be subjected to the following tests after

conditioning:

a. Water Penetration Test outlined in Paragraph 6.5.9.

(Flooded Designs only - Not applicable to tight-

buffered cables)

b. Jacket Slip Strength Test outlined in Paragraph 6.5.10

(Flooded Designs only - Not applicable to tight

buffered cables)

6.5.8.3 Sample A Initial Measurements

At a temperature of 23 ± 5°C, measure and record the

attenuation for: Zero-dispersion single mode fibers at 1310

nm and 1550 nm; and, for Dispersion shifted and Non-Zero

dispersion shifted single mode fibers at 1550 nm and/or

multimode fibers at 850 nm and 1300 nm.

6.5.8.4 Heat Conditioning

6.5.8.4.1 Immediately after completing Sample A initial

measurements, condition all sample type

specimens for 14 days at a temperature of 70 ±

2°C.




Page 36 of 38

6.5.8.4.2 At the end of this period note any exudation of

cable filler (if applicable). Measure the

parameters given in Paragraph 6.5.8.3 and

record the data.

6.5.8.5 Overall Optical Deviation

Calculate the change in all parameter measurements

between the final parameters (after conditioning) with the

initial parameters. The attenuation of each fiber shall not

change by more than 0.1 dB/km.

6.5.9 Water Penetration Testing (Flooded Design only - Not for tight

buffered cables)

6.5.9.1 A watertight closure shall be placed over the outer sheath of

one end of a fiber cable Sample specimen. The closure

shall not be placed over the sheath so tightly that the flow

of water through pre-existing voids or air spaces is

restricted. The other end of the sample shall remain open.

6.5.9.2 Test water penetration as per one of the following options:

a. Option A

1. Weigh the sample and closure prior to testing.

2. Fill the closure with water and place under a

continuous pressure of 10 ± 0.7 KPa for one

hour.

3. Collect the water leakage from the end of the

test sample during the test and weigh to the

nearest 0.1 g.

4. Immediately after the one-hour test, seal the

ends of the cable with a thin layer of grease and

remove all visible water from the closure, being

careful not to remove water that penetrated into

the core during the test.

5. Re-weigh the sample and determine the weight

of water that penetrated into the core.

b. Option B

1. Fill the closure with a 0.2 g sodium fluorescein




Page 37 of 38

per liter water solution and apply a continuous

pressure of 10 ± 0.7 KPa for one hour.

2. Catch and weigh any water that leaks from the

end of the cable during the one-hour period.

3. If no water leaks from the sample, carefully

remove the water from the closure. Then,

carefully remove, one at a time, the outer jacket,

armor (if present), inner jacket (if present), and

core wrap examining each component with an

ultraviolet light source for water penetration.

4. After removal of the core wrap, carefully dissect

the core and examine for water penetration

within the-core.

5. Where water penetration is observed, measure

the penetration distance.

6.5.10 Jacket Slip Strength Test (Flooded designs only - Not for tight buffered

cables)

6.5.10.1 Sample Selection: Use fiber cable Sample C specimen for

this test.

6.5.10.2 Sample Preparation: Prepare test sample in accordance with

the procedures specified in ASTM D4565.

6.5.10.3 Sample Conditioning and Testing:

1. Remove the sample from the tensile tester prior to

testing and condition for one hour at 50 ± 2°C.

2. Test immediately in accordance with the procedures

specified in ASTM D4565.

3. A minimum Jacket slip strength of 67 Newton is

required. Record the load attained.

6.5.11 Temperature and Humidity Exposure

6.5.11.1 Repeat steps 6.5.8.3 through 6.5.8.5 for a separate set of

samples A, B, and C which have not been subjected to the

heat conditioning of Paragraph 6.5.8.4.

6.5.11.2 Immediately after completing the measurements expose the

test sample to 100-temperature cycling. Relative humidity




Page 38 of 38

within the chamber shall be maintained at 90 ± 2%.

One cycle consists of:

a. Beginning at a stabilized chamber and a test sample

temperature of 52 ± 2°C;

b. Increasing the temperature to 57 ± 2°C;

c. Allowing the chamber and test samples to stabilize at

this level; and,

d. Dropping the temperature back to 52 ± 2°C.

6.5.11.3 Repeat steps of Paragraphs 6.5.8.4.2 through 6.5.10.3.

6.5.12 Temperature Cycling

6.5.12.1 Repeat steps 6.5.8.3 through 6.5.8.5 for a separate set of

samples A, B, and C which have not been subjected to the

heat conditioning of Paragraph 6.5.8.4.

6.5.12.2 Immediately after completing the measurements, subject the

test sample to 10 cycles of temperature between -30°C and

+ 70°C. The test sample must be held at each temperature

extreme for a minimum of 1-½ hours during each cycle of

temperature. The air within the temperature cycling

chamber must be circulated throughout the duration of the

cycling. Repeat steps of Paragraphs 6.5.8.4.2 through

6.5.10.3.

6.5.13 Control Sample

6.5.13.1 A separate set of fiber cable lengths for samples B and C

shall have been maintained at 23 ± 5°C for at least 48 hours

before the testing.

6.5.13.2 Repeat steps of Paragraphs 6.5.9 through 6.5.10.3 for these

samples.

Revision Summary

6 November 2010 Revised the "Next Planned Update." Reaffirmed the contents of the document, and reissued with editorial changes.

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