OPGW (Optical Ground Wire) Aluminum Pipe (AP) type is a structural design in which the optical fiber unit is placed inside a seamless aluminum pipe (or aluminum tube), and the aluminum pipe serves both as the protective sheath for the optical unit and as part of the conductive cross-section. This differs from the previously mentioned "Stranded (S)" type in that the optical unit in the AP type is located in the center of the cable, surrounded by the aluminum pipe, with the outer layer then stranded with aluminum-clad steel wire or aluminum alloy wire.

✔ Optical Unit Location: Optical fibers (typically in PBT loose tubes or stainless steel tubes) are located within the central aluminum pipe, with the pipe interior filled with water-blocking gel or fitted with a thermal barrier layer.
✔ Aluminum Pipe's Dual Role: The aluminum pipe is not merely a protective shell; it also conducts current as part of the OPGW's conductive cross-section, directly affecting the cable's short-circuit current capacity.
✔ Splice-Friendly: Since the optical unit typically uses PBT plastic loose tubes (rather than stainless steel tubes), splice preparation is generally considered easier and more convenient than with stainless steel tube types.

Application

✔ Transmission Lines with Moderate to High Short-Circuit Current Requirements: The aluminum pipe itself serves as part of the conductive cross-section with excellent electrical performance, making it suitable for lines where fault current levels are relatively high. Manufacturer data indicates that its short-circuit capacity can cover a wide range (e.g., 1-second short-circuit current of 3–30 kA, short-circuit capacity of 5–400 kA²s), adaptable to different voltage level requirements.
✔ Projects with Convenient Splicing as a Priority: The optical unit inside the AP-type OPGW typically uses PBT plastic loose tubes, which are more convenient and faster to prepare for splicing compared to stainless steel tubes. For projects with numerous splice points and tight construction schedules, this is a practical advantage.
✔ Applications Requiring Corrosion Resistance: The outer aluminum pipe, combined with the aluminum-clad steel wire or aluminum alloy wire outer layer, provides good corrosion resistance, suitable for areas with corrosive atmospheres.
✔ New Transmission Lines or Ground Wire Replacement Projects: OPGW is commonly used in new 110kV, 220kV, and 500kV transmission lines, or in renovation projects replacing existing ground wires, to simultaneously establish power communication networks.

Product Structure



Product installation site