FTTH Drop Cable Production: Step-by-Step Manufacturing Process
Did you know: more than 70% of new U.S. broadband builds now use fiber networks that demand high-precision manufacturing to hit performance targets.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment manages full-cycle SZ stranding line manufacturing, from choosing brand fibers like Fujikura® or Corning SMF-28e to final test reports that ensure 100% quality assurance.
Our drop cable designs suit aerial, ducted, and direct-buried installation, with low-smoke zero-halogen (LSZH), PVC, and polyethylene (PE) jacket options and arrangements from 1–4 cores. We provide single-mode OS1/OS2 and multimode OM2–OM4 grades plus ITU-T G.652D and ITU-T G.657 variants, Pantone-matched sheath colors, and custom logo printing.
Automation and precision equipment stabilize line speed and repeatability high. Typical lead times run four to five days for orders < 100 km and seven to ten days under 500 km, with an min. order of 1 km and free-replacement warranty for quality problems.
Continue to understand how materials, testing, and support help reduce lifecycle cost and match the right product to your network system.
- Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment provides complete production and laboratory testing for United States projects.
- A range of jacket options and optical grades fit indoor/outdoor environments.
- Automated lines and machines deliver consistent quality and stable optical performance.
- Fast lead times, low MOQ, and brand fiber options help plan procurement reliably.
- Complete reports and after-sales warranty support product reliability and compliance documentation needs.
FTTH Manufacturing Expertise by Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment
When schedules and performance count, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment delivers tailored drop solutions with full test documentation.
As a dedicated manufacturer, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment pairs purpose-built equipment with stringent material control. We provide customized service and products for single-family and MDU rollouts. Every order includes full QA coverage and full test reports.
Our lab runs high heat, salt spray, and vibration tests to validate durability. Jacket options include LSZH, PVC, and PE. Designs offer bow-type flat and figure-8/self-supporting styles and use brand fibers such as Fujikura® and Corning SMF-28e.
- Documented line control and in-process checks for shipments with audit trails.
- Engineering support for requirements, pilots, and scaling.
- Modern fixtures and calibration reduce variability so every cable matches operator specs.
FTTH Cable Production
At Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment, manufacturing steps are built around network requirements, combining brand fiber choices with strict test routines.
Fiber Selection & Brand Options
We select fiber secondary coating line to bend radius, attenuation, and install environment. Options include OS1/OS2 and OM2–OM4 and G.652D and G.657.A1/A2 per ITU-T. Brand fibers such as Fujikura and Corning® SMF-28e are available to satisfy sourcing standards.
Strength Member Options
Strength members use FRP (dielectric) or galvanized steel wire. FRP is ideal where non-conductive runs are required. Steel wire provides tensile strength for longer aerial spans and grounding needs.
Jacket extrusion and process control
Jacket options include LSZH for indoor flame safety, PVC for flexibility and ease of handling, and PE for UV/moisture resistance outdoors. Closed-loop control of temperature and capstan ratios keeps line speed stable and dimensional tolerances.
| Member | Dielectric FRP | Steel wire |
|---|---|---|
| Use case | Electrical isolation | High-tension aerial runs |
| Advantage | Light, non-corrosive | High strength |
| Installer note | Simple terminations | Requires grounding |
Inline and final testing
Inline geometry and concentricity checks run during manufacturing. Final optical tests confirm loss and return loss. Each order includes a 100% test report and lab results from high-temperature, salt fog, and vibration trials to confirm handling for drop terminations and field use.
Typical lead times are 4–5 days for < 100 km and under 500 km in 7–10 days. Lot records and FAI approvals support traceability and compliance for U.S. projects.
FTTH drop cable types and structures we manufacture
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment provides a compact portfolio of FTTH drop designs that cover tight indoor routes and exposed aerial spans. Each option combines tested materials with field-termination geometry and stable optical performance.
The bow-type flat drop cable minimizes footprint for risers and conduit. It reduces bend loss for easy routing in MDU corridors and hallways.
Aerial Self-Supporting Options
Self-supporting FTTH drop designs use a support messenger to handle tension. Choose dielectric FRP for electrical isolation or steel wire when bonding/grounding and extra tensile strength are required.
Core Layouts and Strength Members
We offer dielectric and metallic strength member configurations to meet safety/EMI requirements. Central loose-tube and flat unitube types balance crush resistance and Fiber draw tower for fast terminations.
Indoor/outdoor jackets
Jacket choices include LSZH for indoor flame/smoke compliance and PE for outdoor UV and moisture resilience. Each series is qualified for mechanical and optical quality before shipment.
| Type | Best use | Strength member | Jacket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flat bow-type | Indoor risers, MDUs | Dielectric FRP | Low-smoke zero-halogen |
| Self-supporting | Overhead spans | Steel wire or FRP | Polyethylene |
| Central loose-tube | Higher-count builds | FRP | LSZH/PE |
| Unitube flat | Low-count, easy strip | FRP or steel | LSZH/PE |
Equipment Ensuring Quality and Throughput
Automation and sensor-driven feedback at Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment cut manual handling and boost throughput for patch cord prep.
Our production line uses automated machines that cut/strip drop cords to raise throughput and cut labor variability.
The CLX-BPO2 auto-stripping machine runs under PLC and photoelectric control. One cycle is about 1.5 seconds, giving real-world speeds near 20 terminal operations per minute.
Auto Cut & Strip Capabilities
The equipment strips LSZH and PVC jackets and trims FRP or steel strength members to precise stub lengths. Pneumatic cylinder actuators provide quick, repeatable motion and low downtime.
PLC & Photoelectric for Precision
PLC logic and photoelectric sensors deliver precise positioning and closed-loop control. Inline checks feed control charts so operators can correct trends before defects grow.
| Feature | Capability | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Machine | Auto-strip, ~1.5 s cycle | ~20 terminals/minute throughput |
| Actuation | Pneumatic cylinders | Fast/reliable motion |
| Material handling | LSZH & PVC; FRP & steel | Accurate stubs, clean terminations |
| Process control | PLC + photoelectric + inline checks | Consistent quality, lower rework |
- Automated waste ejection and ergonomic feeders maintain clean workcells.
- PCPs document calibration and key parameters.
- Integrated assets and trained operators help meet FTTH volume goals without sacrificing accuracy.
CLX-BPO2 Capabilities on Our Line
The CLX-BPO2 brings industrial-grade stripping and trimming to our line, reducing cycle time while keeping prep consistent.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment deploys the CLX-BPO2 to raise output and standardize terminal quality. The unit runs at an approximate cycle time of 1.5 seconds, producing around 20 preps per minute in production.
PLC/photoelectric control deliver exact detection and repeatable motion. That control helps keep strip lengths and reserved strength stubs within tight tolerances.
Cycle time and throughput
Typical operation speed is 1.5s per cycle. This converts to steady throughput under normal production conditions.
Supported jacket and reserved strength lengths
The CLX-BPO2 handles LSZH/PVC with an adjustable strip length from 17.5–35.0 mm. Reserved stubs are adjustable from 7.0–11.0 mm to match common termination hardware.
Handling FRP and steel wire strength members
The machine cuts FRP/steel strength elements cleanly while protecting neighboring fibers. Customized cutters are offered for nonstandard sizes to preserve precision.
- Auto-eject scrap and sensor-triggered start reduce idle time.
- Compact size (L40 × W18 × H18 cm), 50W at 110–220V, and 11 kg mass ease integration into workcells.
- Cylinder-driven motion and PLC/photoelectric control improve line reliability and lower maintenance interruptions.
| Specification | Rating | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle time | ~1.5 s (~20/min) | Supports high-volume runs |
| Jacket strip (A) | 17.5 to 35.0 mm | Fits common connector processes |
| Stub (B) | 7.0–11.0 mm | Meets strength and termination needs |
| Power & size | 50W @ 110–220V; 40×18×18 cm | Simple integration |
Using this machine, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment standardizes prep so field teams get drop parts install-ready. The CLX-BPO2 supports our lines in meeting volume targets without compromising quality.
Custom Specs for Your FTTH System
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment configures every order to fit your network requirements and simplify deployment. We pair concise options with predictable manufacturing windows so your teams receive ready-to-install products.
Choose 1–4 core designs with SM or MM fiber. Options include OS1, OS2, and OM2–OM4 along with G.652D/G.657 variants to align with optics and connector plans.
We Pantone-match sheath colors for quick field identification and consistent asset tags.
Jackets, Legends & Branding
Select LSZH/PVC/PE jackets based on route and safety rules. Custom print legends and logos support inventory and warranty tracking.
Lengths, Packaging & Special Builds
Standard put-ups are 1 km, 2 km, and 4 km with tailored reels and packaging to suit storage and handling. Choose flat bow-type or self-supporting and FRP or steel members to fit span and isolation requirements.
| Option | Typical | Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Reel length | 1 / 2 / 4 km | Less staging, easier reels |
| Sheath | LSZH, PE, PVC | Indoor/outdoor compatibility |
| Structure | Flat bow / Self-supporting | Routing and span flexibility |
As a supplier, Shanghai Weiye schedules runs to your plan and provides docs that lists final specifications for straightforward QA on site.
QA, Testing & Documentation
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment builds checkpoints into production so every item ships with recorded acceptance data.
Environmental and Mechanical Tests
Our lab conducts high-temperature exposure, salt fog corrosion, and vibration tests to qualify materials/assemblies. These tests recreate field stresses for indoor/outdoor applications.
Per-Reel 100% Reports
Every fiber optic cable includes a 100% test report that logs attenuation, return loss, and geometry where applicable. Final inspection gates prevent nonconforming shipments before they leave the factory.
Audit Trail and Compliance
Batch records link tests to reels/serials so audits and claims are easy to verify. Documentation uses standard customer templates to speed approvals and inbound inspection.
- Line checks and final inspection prevent field failures and lower warranty events.
- Quality packages include specifications confirmation and formatted data for quick review.
- Ongoing trend analysis drive preventive maintenance and improve long-term reliability.
| Test | Why | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Heat exposure | Material stability | Pass at target temperature |
| Salt spray | Corrosion resistance | Qualified for outdoor use |
| Mechanical vibration | Mechanical robustness | Improved field reliability |
FTTH Drop Cable Pricing & Cost Drivers
Budgeting for a drop run starts with fiber and jacket choices and is refined by volume and customization.
Typical prices range broadly—from about $30 to $1,000 per unit—based on fiber grade, jacket chemistry (LSZH, PVC, PE), reel length, and structural design.
Material choices, fiber grade, jacket type, and structure
The primary cost drivers are fiber optic grade, jacket material, and the chosen structure for deployment.
Self-supporting designs and steel strength elements increase material/labor. Custom colors, logos, and print legends add setup and impact pricing on small runs.
How Volume & Options Affect Cost
Longer reels and higher volume orders lower unit cost. Short runs often include setup charges and higher per-unit charges.
- Changeovers and special cutters increase lead time and add to cost.
- Clear RFQs and line scheduling let Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment match quotes to delivery windows.
- Frameworks and indexed pricing stabilize budgets over phases.
| Factor | Price impact | Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber grade | High impact | Balance spec vs. budget |
| Sheath material | Medium impact | Evaluate LSZH vs PE |
| Order length / volume | Large | Consolidate where possible |
Logistics for the U.S.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment makes lead times and logistics clear so planners can align staffing and sites. Predictable schedules cut downtime and control costs when a rollout is underway.
Scheduling & Capacity Planning
Typical production windows are 4–5 days for < 100 km and 7–10 days for orders under 500 km. We schedule line capacity to track your milestones and to maintain on-time delivery.
The service team provides updates/tracking so installation teams can plan arrivals. For compressed schedules, we hold contingency capacity to pull in critical-path orders.
Why MOQ Matters
The MOQ is 1 km. This reflects setup needs such as wire/die adjustments that consume start-up material and scrap.
We review your put-ups and staging to select reels to reduce waste/handling. Staggered batches can balance inventory holding with frequent, smaller deliveries to job sites.
Installation readiness and application scenarios
On-site conditions dictate whether a self-supporting aerial, ducted pull, or direct burial is the best fit for a project.
Aerial, duct, and direct-buried deployment considerations
For aerial runs, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment recommends self-supporting designs with correct strength members to manage sag/tension for long-term reliability.
Duct installations work best with low-friction sheaths and crush-resistant constructs so pulling does not damage fibers. PE jackets are typical for underground and buried paths where moisture resistance matters.
Direct-buried designs need correct burial depth per local codes and moisture barriers to protect the optic core over time.
Indoor riser/plenum distribution and ONT termination
Indoor riser/plenum routes prefer LSZH to meet flame and smoke rules. Flat drop profiles strip clean and present controlled strength stubs for quick ONT termination.
We advise on steel vs FRP (dielectric) strength members based on bonding requirements, lightning risk, and hardware fit. Standardized prep from the production line reduces install time and reduces scrap.
| Scenario | Key design | Installer note |
|---|---|---|
| Aerial | Self-supporting (steel/FRP) | Check tension and messenger hardware |
| Duct | Low-friction, crush-resistant | Use pull tape + lubricant |
| Direct-buried | PE jacket, moisture barrier | Follow local depth and warning tape rules |
| Indoor | LSZH jacket, tight bend support | Maintain bend radius at wall penetrations |
Our approach ensures a consistent install experience across indoor/outdoor transitions. That leads to fewer callbacks, speeds activations, and stable field performance for your system.
Support from Spec to Service
Our team coordinates tests, line schedules, and installation guidance to avoid surprises in deployment.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment offers engineering support from early requirements capture through approved drawings and pilot builds. We deliver documentation templates and clear installation notes so field crews work from the same plan.
After-sales service includes fast response, RCA, and corrective action. All products ship with full test reports and traceability to help QA acceptance.
- Round-the-clock availability for status and technical support.
- Warranty with free replacement if any quality problems are confirmed.
- Schedule coordination for urgent changes or acceleration requests.
- Configuration control so shipped items match agreed requirements every time.
| Area | What we do | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering | Spec review & pre-production builds | Fewer field issues |
| QA/Testing | Lab trials & 100% test reports | Full traceability |
| Service | Fast replace + RCA | Lower downtime |
Final Thoughts
Select Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment for custom drops, quick lead times, and full traceability.
We deliver customized FTTH drop solutions that combine materials with validated manufacturing and lab tests. Every reel ships with a 100% test report and documented trials to support field acceptance in the United States.
A robust production line, including CLX-BPO2-enabled prep machines, cuts variability and speeds turnaround. Our equipment and machines standardize strip and stub lengths so installers see consistent results at turn-up.
From fiber selection through jacket, printing, and packaging, we balance design and cost to extend service life. Dedicated support covers scheduling/logistics/after-sales so your deployment stays on plan.
Get in touch with Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment to align specs, timeline, and volume. We stand behind every fiber optic and optic cable shipment with lab validation and responsive support.