How does the voltage level selection of ADSS fiber optic cables affect their long-term reliability?

Matching principle between voltage level and sheath material

In the early days, the voltage level of distribution lines was mostly 35KV-110KV, and ordinary polyethylene (PE) sheaths were able to meet the demand due to their lightweight and basic anti-tracking performance. However, in recent years, with the extension of transmission distances and the popularization of high-voltage lines of 220KV and above, the electromagnetic environment of optical cables has become more severe, and PE sheaths are prone to aging and breakage due to electrical corrosion. At this time, anti-tracking sheaths (AT sheaths) are required, which have special formulas to improve corona resistance and arc resistance, and can effectively cope with high-voltage electric field environments.

A real-life example of ignoring voltage levels

In 2023, a customer selected PE sheathed ADSS optical cable (model AOPTKE-ADSS-24B1-250-PE) on a 220KV line to save costs. Although our technical team recommended upgrading to an AT sheathed model, the customer ultimately chose the lower-priced option. After six months of operation, the optical cable had sheath cracks and fiber core damage in many places, which were confirmed to be caused by electrical corrosion. In the end, the customer had to increase the budget, replace it with an AT sheathed optical cable and repair the fault point, and the total cost exceeded the initial reasonable selection plan.

Why does voltage level affect price?

1. Material cost difference: AT sheath needs to add anti-tracking materials, the production process is more complicated, and the cost is about 15%-20% higher than PE sheath.

2. Performance verification investment: High-voltage optical cables need to pass strict tracking tests such as IEC 60794-4-20, and the testing costs and R&D costs increase simultaneously.

3. Customized service: AOPTKE CABLE provides differentiated designs for different voltage levels (such as tensile strength and span adaptation) to ensure that the optical cable matches the mechanical environment of the tower.

Conclusion

We are well aware that products are not only transmission media, but also the cornerstone of safe operation of power grids. Therefore, AOPTKE CABLE insists on providing full life cycle services - from model selection and design to later maintenance, from anti-tracking performance optimization to environmental adaptability verification, using professionalism and responsibility to protect the 20-year stable operation of each section of optical cable.