ADSS is an acronym for All-dielectric Self-supporting Optical Cable. An alternative to OPGW and OPAC, ADSS cable is designed for aerial self-supporting application for short, medium and long span distances, up to 700 meters. ADSS cable is designed to be lightweight, small in diameter and fully dielectric construction. Utility companies often install ADSS cable along existing overhead transmission lines, sharing the same space as the electrical conductors to reduce costs.


Installing ADSS cable does not require a support strand, meaning placement is achieved in a single pass. This fiber optic network installation process has proven to be easier to install for technicians, making it a popular option for installers.

ADSS installation uses the Stationary Reel method, meaning a winch will be a necessary part of the installation. ADSS cable is often the solution to difficult cable installations such as:

  1. Aerial environments where power cables are close by
  2. Lashing operations in close proximity of other cables on the poles

Various tools are need to successfully install ADSS cable, including:

 

The GMP Cable Pony winch offers the constant pulling tension of a double capstan drive and the flexibility of a direct drive drum in one machine. It has a maximum pulling capacity of 2200 lbs (1000 kg) and a rope speed maximum of 130 ft/min (40 meters/min). Be sure to check back for our future blog with additional details on the Cable Pony Winch.

Rope Storage Reel with Rope

The high quality rope is twist resistant and has parallel laid core yarns with a very tightly braided 16 Plait high tenacity polyester cover. The storage reel’s unique design allows it to be used on both the payout stand and the Cable Pony. The reel will hold up to 2,000 ft. of 5/16” dia. pulling line.

  • Diameter: 27.5″
  • Width: 15″

In Line Block 
The split side frame and hooks make this in-line block easy to use. The side frame incorporates a guide ring to protect the fiber cable and the sheave rides on ball bearings.

Starting Block 
The block has a safety gate and steel side frames. The large diameter profiled groove helps protect the cable from wear. The swivel oval eye, cable gate and cable-retaining pin make it simple to use while the sheave rides on ball bearings.

 

Rope Connector
The rope connector provides an effective method of joining pulling ropes.

  • W.L.L.: 2200 lbs.

Heavy-Duty Ball Bearing Swivel

These tough stainless steel swivels are designed to handle higher thrust loads for extra cable safety.

  • Aerial W.L.L.: 1350 lbs.

 

To learn more about ADSS installation tools visit: https://www.gmptools.com/adss-dielectric-self-support-line/

ADSS cable is a cost-effective and reliable telecom technology that has been used worldwide for many years. ADSS cable has a number of advantages over other types of aerial cable including its small size, low weight and flexibility.

Since 1936, General Machine Products has been a leader in supplying the telecom industry. Visit us today at gmptools.com or call us at 215-357-5500 to learn more about aerial cable placement solutions.