How is the lifespan of optical cables determined? What factors can affect the service life of optical cables, and how can they be extended?

The lifespan of optical cables is usually determined by multiple factors, including material quality, manufacturing process, installation quality, environmental conditions, and maintenance management. Generally speaking, the design lifespan of optical cables can reach 20 years or even longer, but they may be shortened in practical use due to various factors.
The main factors affecting the service life of optical cables are:
Material quality: The quality of materials such as optical fibers, sheaths, and fillers inside the optical cable directly affects the lifespan of the cable. High quality materials can resist aging, corrosion and mechanical damage, thus extending the service life of optical cables.
Manufacturing process: The manufacturing process of optical cables also has a significant impact on their lifespan. Quality control during the manufacturing process, coating and protection of optical fibers, and thickness and uniformity of sheaths can all affect the durability of optical cables.
Installation quality: The installation quality of optical cables is crucial for their long-term stable operation. The control of bending radius during installation, avoidance of excessive stretching and flattening, and prevention of mechanical damage can all affect the service life of optical cables.
Environmental conditions: The environmental conditions in which the optical cable is located can also have an impact on its lifespan. Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, ultraviolet radiation, chemical corrosion, and mechanical pressure may accelerate the aging and damage of optical cables.
Maintenance management: The maintenance management of optical cables is crucial for extending their service life. Regular inspection, timely repair of damaged parts, and maintenance measures such as keeping the optical cable clean and dry can extend its service life.
To extend the service life of optical cables, the following measures can be taken:
Choose high-quality materials: In the manufacturing and procurement process of optical cables, choose materials with reliable quality and certified suppliers.
Strictly control the manufacturing process: Strengthen quality control during the manufacturing process to ensure that the structure and performance of the optical cable meet the design requirements.
Improve installation quality: Follow standardized operations during the installation process to avoid mechanical damage and excessive stretching, and ensure that the bending radius of the optical cable meets the requirements.
Improving environmental conditions: Whenever possible, improve the environmental conditions in which the optical cable is located, such as lowering temperature, reducing ultraviolet radiation, etc.
Strengthen maintenance management: Establish a sound maintenance management system, regularly inspect the condition of optical cables, promptly identify problems and make repairs. Keep the optical cable clean and dry to prevent the invasion of moisture and pollutants.