HF20 Indoor/Outdoor Tight Buffer Distribution Riser Cable can be used to create a distribution system for voice, data, and video communications, functioning as intrabuilding and interbuilding backbones. It is approved for use in vertical risers and horizontal connections indoors, and in underground conduits and ducts outdoors. Its rating for use both indoors and outdoors allows for a direct connection, and means that there is no extra cost involved to switch cable type when installing outside of the building.

The cable consists of 2 to 144 optical fibers. When the cable has between 2 and 12 fibers, the 900 micrometer tight buffer is extruded over each colour-coded fiber, with the strength member aramid fiber yarn added for water blocking and to help decrease tensile stress. If the cable contains more than 12 fibres, then the fibres are bundled into subunits of smaller jacketed cables assembled to create a Dry Water Block cable core. The core holds a central strength member made of epoxy or glass rod that adds stiffness to the cable and provides extra strain relief when it is used as a vertical riser. A flameproof, UV-resistant PVC jacket encases the cable, coloured yellow for single mode fibers and orange for multimode fibers.

Product Highlights:

• Dry Water Blocking means the cable can be use in both wet and dry conditions without damage.
• Safe for use in vertical risers at a maximum vertical rise of 500m.
• Protected against damage from ultraviolet radiation.
• Maintains performance in temperatures ranging from -40°C to 70°C.
• Maximum crush resistance of 850 lbs/inch.
• Connectors attach directly to the tight buffer for easy termination.
• Complies with the CSA FT-4 vertical flame test.

Technical Standards:

UL 1651                 Single and multiple optical fiber signaling, communications, and control cables that do not carry a current. Cable types include OFNP, OFCP, OFNR, OFCR, OFN, OFNG, OFC, and OFCG. Smoke and fire requirements outlined for each type of cable must be strictly adhered to.

UL 1666                 Electrical and optical fiber cables that run vertically in shafts or for more than one floor must undergo a flame propagation height test to determine if they are up to code.

ICEA  S-104-696   Indoor/outdoor cables that are deemed durable enough to be rated for use outside may be altered to comply with fire requirements. If the cable has less than 10 meters exposed to the outside then the cable may be designed as an indoor cable, but must meet weatherizing requirements as per S-83-596.