How to install tubing in a fiber optic splice closure

Proper installation of tubing in a fiber optic splice closure involves preparing the cable, securing buffer tubes, managing fibers in splice trays, and sealing the closure to protect the fibers.

Step 1: Prepare the Fiber Cable

• Remove the outer jacket of the optical cable, including any shielding or armor, to expose the loose tubes or central core tube. Leave sufficient cable length (typically 1.5–3 meters) for handling and splicing .
• Clean and abrade the exposed tubes and strength members using a cleaning solution and sandpaper to ensure a clean surface for sealing .
• Strip protective coatings from the fiber tubes according to the closure manufacturer's recommended lengths (e.g., 150–1600 mm depending on splicing and tray placement), .

Step 2: Insert and Secure the Cable

• Select sealing rings that match the cable diameter and place them on the cable.
• Insert the cable into the designated entry port of the closure and secure it with a hose clamp or other provided hardware .
• Seal the cable using self-adhesive tape between the sealing rings to prevent moisture ingress .
• Ground the cable if it has a metallic shield, connecting it to the closure's grounding hardware .

Step 3: Manage Buffer Tubes

• Separate individual buffer tubes for single-core fibers or ribbon tubes for ribbon fibers .
• Secure tubes at the tray entry using nylon ties, color-coding them to distinguish between outgoing and customer fibers (e.g., green for outgoing, blue for customer), .
• Maintain minimum bend radius: loose tubes and fibers should not be bent below 38 mm (1.5 inches) for individual fibers, and armored cables should follow 15× the cable diameter .

Step 4: Splice Fibers and Organize in Trays

• Splice fibers using the specified method (fusion or mechanical) and insert splices into the splice tray slots .
• Coil excess fiber within the tray to prevent stress or pinching. Reserve 1.5 loops behind the tray for service loops .
• Stack trays according to closure capacity, ensuring trays are fastened securely but accessible for maintenance .

Step 5: Close and Seal the Splice Closure

• Place the lid over the splice trays and lock it into position.
• Ensure all buffer tubes and fibers are properly routed to avoid pinching or stress when the cover is applied .
• Check the seal and, if necessary, use desiccant packs or additional sealing materials to maintain a dry environment inside the closure . Following these steps ensures that the tubing and fibers are securely installed, protected from environmental factors, and organized for easy maintenance, maintaining the integrity and performance of the fiber optic network.