Products introduction

OPGW (Optical Fiber Composite Overhead Ground Wire)—specifically the central loose-tube variant—is a specialized power cable designed to serve a dual function: acting as both a lightning protection ground wire and a communication optical cable, by housing optical fibers within the central core of the overhead ground wire.

Its core structure involves loosely housing optical fibers within a sealed, water-blocking stainless steel tube (or aluminum tube) filled with a water-blocking gel. This central tube is then surrounded by one or more layers of helically stranded metal wires (such as aluminum-clad steel wires or aluminum alloy wires).

Key Features and Structure
Compact Structure: The optical fiber unit is positioned at the very center of the cable; consequently, the cable features a relatively small outer diameter and is less susceptible to the effects of wind pressure and ice loading.
Robust Protection: The sealed stainless steel tube provides the optical fibers with exceptional mechanical protection (resistance to lateral pressure and tensile stress) as well as environmental protection (resistance to moisture and corrosion).
Electrical Performance: The outer layer of metal wires delivers high tensile strength and excellent electrical conductivity. This allows the cable to effectively manage temperature rise—thereby protecting the internal optical fibers—during lightning strikes or when conducting short-circuit currents.
Capacity Limitations: Due to the volume constraints of the central tube, the fiber count within a single tube is typically limited to 48 cores or fewer. If a higher fiber count is required (e.g., 96 cores or more), a layer-stranded structure is typically employed instead.

Typical Application Scenarios
High-Voltage Transmission Lines: Frequently utilized in the construction or retrofitting of power transmission lines rated at 66kV, 110kV, 220kV, and above, where it serves as the uppermost lightning protection wire.
Power System Communications: Facilitates the transmission of signals for relay protection, dispatch telephony, automation data, and video surveillance.
Lightning-Prone Regions: Leverages the conductive properties of its all-metal outer layer to provide reliable lightning protection and grounding assurance for power infrastructure.