Furcation tubing is a type of protective tubing that is used to cover exposed fiber in terminating multi-fiber cables or in “fan-out” situations. It is also referred to as buffer tubing and is used to provide an additional layer of protection for the cables and fibers. This type of tubing is designed to protect the fibers from the external environment, such as moisture, dust, and other contaminants, that can cause damage or decrease the performance of the cable.
Furcation tubing is typically composed of polyethylene, polypropylene, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). These materials are strong and durable and are designed to resist corrosion, chemical attacks, and extreme temperatures. The tubing also comes in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate a range of cable sizes and configurations.
In applications where multiple fibers are present, furcation tubing is used to separate the fibers from each other and reduce the risk of damage due to mishandling or installation. It also makes it easier to identify the specific fibers within a bundle. Additionally, when used with patch cords, furcation tubing can reduce the risk of optical fiber bends that can cause signal loss.
Furcation tubing is an important component of fiber optic cabling and is essential for protecting the fibers and maintaining signal integrity. It is especially important for applications that require high performance, such as data centers and communication networks, where cables and fibers need to be protected from the elements as well as from physical damage. Furcation tubing is a cost-effective solution that helps to ensure reliable and efficient operation of fiber optic cables.
