Accurate sag and tension control is the most critical factor in a successful OPGW installation. Unlike conventional ground wires, OPGW's optical performance is directly affected by mechanical strain.

• Protecting Optical Performance: If the cable is strung too tightly, the tension can put stress on the fiber optic core, leading to microbending and increased signal attenuation (loss of signal strength).

• Preventing "Fiber Strain": Every OPGW cable has a Zero Fiber Strain Margin (ZFSM), which is the maximum tension the cable can withstand before the optical fibers themselves begin to stretch. It is imperative that the cable tension under all conditions—including wind, ice, and temperature changes—never exceeds this limit. Exceeding the ZFSM can lead to permanent damage and signal loss.

By using our high-precision hydraulic puller and OHTLstringingequipment.com/Hydraulic-Conductor-Tensioners.html target='_blank'>Tensioner machines, contractors can maintain the exact tension specified in the sag-tension charts, guaranteeing the long-term optical reliability and performance of the OPGW cable.