How to open a 72-core optical cable

Opening a 72-core optical cable requires careful stripping, cleaning, and organization of fibers to ensure safe handling and optimal signal performance.Preparation and Safety

Before opening the cable, ensure you have a clean, well-lit workspace and the necessary tools: fiber optic strippers, cleavers, alcohol wipes, inspection microscope, and protective gloves. Inspect the cable for damage, kinks, or bends to avoid compromising fiber integrity during handling . Safety is critical, as glass fibers can cause injury.

Stripping the Cable

1. Remove the outer jacket using a fiber optic cable stripper, adjusting the blade depth according to the cable diameter (typically 10–22 mm for 72-core cables), .
2. Peel off inner protective layers and loose buffer tubes carefully. Wash off any filling grease to expose the fibers .
3. Leave 1.1–1.6 meters of fiber and 30–50 mm of steel core for handling and splicing .

Fiber Identification

High-count cables use a tube and fiber color-coding system based on TIA-598-C standards. For 72 fibers, fibers are grouped in 12-fiber tubes, with the 12-color sequence repeated and marked with stripes for unique identification . This ensures correct fiber selection during splicing or termination.

Organizing Fibers in Splice Closures

1. Fix the cable and steel core using the cable pressing card or adhesive tape if the diameter is small .
2. Lead fibers into the splice tray, one tray typically holds 12 fibers. Lay fibers evenly and secure with nylon ties .
3. Perform fusion splicing or mechanical splicing as required, then protect the joint with heat-shrink tubes .
4. Cover the top layer of the tray, position the closure, and seal with adhesive rubber strips or sealing tape to maintain environmental protection .

Final Checks

• Inspect each fiber end with a microscope or visual fault locator to ensure clean cleaves and no defects .
• Verify that all fibers are properly organized and secured to prevent bending or stress.
• Document fiber positions and splices for future maintenance. By following these steps, a 72-core optical cable can be safely opened, prepared, and organized for splicing or termination, ensuring minimal signal loss and long-term reliability .