How to install fiber optic cable splice closures

Properly fitting a fiber optic cable splice closure involves careful cable preparation, sealing, splicing, tray management, and grounding to ensure long-term network reliability.

Cable Preparation

1. Remove the Cable Jacket: Strip the outer jacket, shielding, and armor to expose the loose tubes, leaving about 3 meters of cable for preparation .
2. Clean and Abrade: Clean the loose tubes and strength member sheath with a suitable cleaning solution. Remove excess filling and abrade the outer jacket for approximately 150 mm to ensure proper sealing .

Installing the Cable in the Closure

1. Select and Attach Sealing Rings: Choose sealing rings that match the cable diameter and place them on the cable .
2. Insert the Cable: Position the cable into the designated entry hole of the closure.
3. Grounding: Connect and ground any metallic shielding or strength members as required .
4. Seal the Cable: Wrap self-adhesive sealing tape between the sealing rings to create a tight seal, then secure the cable to the closure base using a hose clamp or provided hardware .

Fiber Splicing and Tray Management

1. Splice the Fibers: Use the specified fusion or mechanical splicing method.
2. Insert Splices into Trays: Place splices into the slots of the splice tray, coiling any excess fiber neatly to maintain the minimum bend radius (typically >30 mm for loose tubes and >38 mm for individual fibers), .
3. Stack Trays: Depending on closure capacity, stack splice trays securely, ensuring accessibility for future maintenance. Trays can be fastened together to prevent movement .

Closure Sealing

1. Close the Tray Lid: Press the lid over the splice tray to lock it in place.
2. Seal the Closure: Ensure all entry/exit tubes are properly fitted and sealed, using heat-shrinkable or mechanical sealing components as specified by the manufacturer .

Final Checks

• Verify that all fibers are free from stress or pinching.
• Confirm grounding and bonding of metallic components.
• Ensure the closure is fully sealed against environmental factors such as moisture, dust, and mechanical stress . Following these steps ensures that the fiber optic splice closure is secure, organized, and maintains optimal optical performance over time .