ADSS Cable vs. Figure-8 Cable: How to Choose the Best Aerial Cable for You?

Core parameter comparison

1. Span capability

·ADSS optical cable: uses aramid yarn or glass fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) as tensile elements, with a maximum span of up to 1,500 meters (such as model ADSS-24B1), and a tensile strength of **≥20 kN**, suitable for long span scenarios such as rivers and valleys.

·Figure 8 cable: integrated galvanized steel strands, the span is usually ≤500 meters (such as model GYTC8S), the tensile strength of the steel cable is about 30 kN, but the cable weight is high (about 300 kg/km), and it is easy to sag over long spans.

2. Environmental adaptability

·ADSS optical cable: all non-metallic structure (outer diameter of about 15-20 mm), temperature range of **-40°C to +70°C**, UV, salt spray and chemical corrosion resistance, suitable for high corrosion environments such as coastal areas and industrial areas.

·8-shaped cable: The steel core needs an outer PE sheath for protection (outer diameter of about 12-18 mm), temperature resistance of **-20°C to +60°C**, and the steel cable may rust in a humid environment (lifespan of about 15 years vs. 30 years+ for ADSS).

3. Electromagnetic compatibility

·ADSS optical cable: no metal material, can be installed close to high-voltage lines (≤220 kV), no risk of electromagnetic interference.

·Figure-8 cable: The steel cable needs to be grounded, otherwise it is easy to induce current in the high-voltage electric field, posing a safety hazard.

Economic Analysis

·Initial cost: Figure 8 cable is cheaper(approx. 0.8-1.2/m)；ADSS costs about(approx30一501.5-2/m).

·Long-term maintenance: ADSS does not require anti-rust maintenance, and the TCO (total cost of ownership) is 40% lower than that of the 8-shaped cable (calculated based on a 20-year cycle).

Selection decision tree

1. Extreme environment or long span? → Choose ADSS

·Case: A coastal 5G base station uses ADSS, with a cross-sea span of 1.2 kilometers and typhoon + salt spray resistance.

2. Limited budget and short span? → Choose 8-shaped cable

·Case: Rural broadband project, 300-meter pole distance in dry climate, 8-shaped cable saves 20% of initial investment.

Future compatibility

ADSS supports higher bandwidth (such as 1.2 Tbps per fiber) and is suitable for 5G and smart grid upgrades; the figure-8 cable is suitable for current low-speed demand scenarios, but may need to be replaced when expanding capacity.

Summary

ADSS is the first choice for harsh environments and long distances, while figure-8 cables are suitable for short-distance, low-cost deployments. The decision needs to balance span, environment, and full-cycle costs.

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