With the rapid development of smart grids and 5G communication, OPGW optical cables are evolving towards higher core counts and higher capacity to meet the communication needs of ultra-high voltage lines. Ordinary optical cables, on the other hand, are being improved towards lighter weight, greater bending resistance, and lower loss, such as the application of G.657A2 fiber, enhancing the flexibility of indoor and outdoor cabling. Both will continue to leverage their respective advantages in future communication networks, forming a complementary structure.
Differences between OPGW and Ordinary Optical Cables
I. Core Functional Differences
OPGW Optical Cable: A "Dual Role" in Power and Communication
Power Protection: As a grounding wire for transmission lines, it guides lightning current and protects high-voltage conductors from lightning damage.
Optical Fiber Communication: Internally integrated with optical fiber units, it transmits critical data such as power grid monitoring, dispatching commands, and fault location, contributing to the construction of smart grids.
Ordinary Optical Cable: A Single Communication Transmission Medium
Communication Dedicatedness: Focused solely on data communication functions, it is used in telecommunications networks, the internet, broadcasting, and other fields.
Design goal: To achieve high-speed, high-capacity signal transmission via optical fiber, without infringing on the protection requirements of the power system.
II. Differentiated Design of Structure and Materials
OPGW Optical Cable: Composite Metal Structure
Outer Conductor: Constructed of aluminum-clad steel wire or aluminum alloy wire stranded together, possessing both high conductivity and mechanical strength, capable of withstanding short-circuit currents and extreme environmental loads (such as strong winds and snow).
Fiber Optic Unit: Located in the center of the optical cable or in a layered structure, typically protected by stainless steel or aluminum tubing to prevent damage from external pressure or current surges.
Protection Characteristics: The outer metal structure naturally provides lightning protection, electromagnetic interference resistance, and high-temperature resistance.
Ordinary Optical Cable: Lightweight and Adaptable to Various Applications
Typical Structure: Centered around a central reinforcing element (such as aramid fiber or steel wire), with an outer layer encasing the fiber core and sheath (PE/PVC material), resulting in a simple and flexible structure.
Material Selection: Different sheath materials are selected based on the application scenario. For example, ADSS optical cable uses an all-dielectric structure, suitable for high-voltage environments.
III. Comparison of Application Scenarios and Deployment Methods
OPGW Optical Cable: A "Dedicated Solution" for High-Voltage Transmission Scenarios
Deployment Scenarios: Primarily used for 110kV Transmission lines with voltage levels of 1000V and above are erected on top of transmission towers and laid parallel to high-voltage conductors.
Construction characteristics: Must be erected synchronously with transmission lines, relying on cooperation with the power sector. Specialized hardware such as tension clamps and vibration dampers are required during construction, and electrical safety (e.g., thermal effects of short-circuit current) must be considered.
Typical applications:
• Backbone communication networks of State Grid and China Southern Power Grid
• Real-time monitoring and automated control between substations
• Grid-connected communication for new energy power plants (e.g., wind farms, photovoltaic power plants)
Ordinary optical fiber cable: The "capillaries" of general communication networks
Deployment scenarios: Covers urban broadband, base station interconnection, data centers, home access, etc.; can be overhead, directly buried, in conduits, or routed indoors.
Construction characteristics: Independent of the power system, requires no power outages, and offers flexible construction. For example:
• ADSS fiber optic cables can be mounted on the middle layer of power poles, but maintain a safe distance from high-voltage conductors.
• Direct-buried fiber optic cables are protected against soil corrosion and mechanical damage through an armor layer.
Typical applications:
• Fiber optic backhaul between 5G base stations
• Video surveillance in urban smart transportation systems
• Fiber to the home (FTTH) access