You are on page 1of 23

Fibre Optic Cable (FOC) Cable Blowing by

Jetting Method

&

Splicing & Testing

Method Statement
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 2 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

CONTENT
1. PURPOSE ................................................................................................................... 4

2. SCOPE ......................................................................................................................... 4

3. FIBER OPTIC CABLE LAYING............................................................................. 4


3.1 General requirement .................................................................................................. 4
3.2 Methods for Fibre Optic cable installation into HDPE Ducts ............................... 4
3.3 Main difference between Blowing and Pulling ........................................................ 5
3.4. Cable blowing principle ............................................................................................. 5-6
3.5. Factors influencing Optical Fibre blowing............................................................... 6
3.6. Blowing Chambers & Manholes ............................................................................... 6-7
3.6.1 Blowing Chamber
3.6.2 Joint Box or Manhole
3.6.3 Spare Coil requirements

3.7. The Basic Rules and Recommendation for blowing cable in HDPE Duct ........... 7-8
3.8. Field planning and Route Survey .............................................................................. 9
3.9. Testing the duct prior to cable installation ............................................................. 9
3.10. Blowing in high temperatures ................................................................................... 10
3.11. Construction Considerations ..................................................................................... 10
3.12. Safety Note and Precautions ...................................................................................... 10-12
3.12.1 General Precautions
3.12.2 Optical Power Sources and Light Emitting Diodes (LED)
3.12.3 Invisible Radiation
3.13. General Precautions – when installing F.O. cable ................................................. 12
Appendix 1 Typical cable closure arrangement in handhole
Appendix 2 Method of Statement for Duct Integrity Test

Page 2 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 3 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

4. FOC Splicing ............................................................................................................... 13-15


4.1 General Requirement
4.2 Splicing Procedure
5. TEST ............................................................................................................................ 15-16
5.1 General Requirement
5.2 Receipt of Cable Test (RoC)
5.3 Installation Test
5.4 Acceptance Test
6. MEASUREMENT PROCEDURE (OTDR) ............................................................ 16-18
7. LIST OF MAJOR EQUIPMENTS ........................................................................... 18
8. CABLE BLOWING ACCESSORIES ...................................................................... 19-23
8.1 Reducer Coupler
8.2 Liquid Tight steel flexible conduit
8.3 Fire Retardant Flexible Orange hose
8.4 Steel /Plastic labels for manhole and stations

Page 3 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 4 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

1. PURPOSE

The purpose of this procedure is to ensure that the laying and testing of FOC and FOC
Splicing & Testing works shall be done in accordance with the contract specifications
related codes & standards and required quality standards shall be met.

2. SCOPE

This procedure is valid only for the laying and testing of FOC related to the
communication system of NEW SULAY S/S-8234 with 132kV NETWORK RIYADH Once
formally approved by Employer/Engineer, this work procedure shall be the reference
document for FOC laying along the electric cable and in stations, related quality control
inspection frequencies and acceptance criteria.

3. FIBER OPTIC CABLE LAYING


3.1 General requirement
The main objectives of cable blowing is to speed up the installation of fibre optic (FO)
cable, save manpower and prevent cable damage.

3.1.1 Cable Blowing by Jetting method will be used to install the Fiber Optic
Cable inside the 25mm HDPE conduit.
3.1.2 Referenced Specifications and Method Statement
Please see attached Appendix 2 - Method Statement for FOC Duct
Integrity Test (DIT) WTX-FOC-012.
The cable laying shall be started after the cable conduit has been tested
successfully between two points of cable termination. This to be done at
the same time of cable installation.
3.2 Methods for Fibre Optic cable installation into HDPE Ducts
The two most common methods used for installation of Fibre Optic (F.O.) cable into
HDPE Telecom duct are :

1. Cable Pulling (Manually or by winch)


2. Cable Blowing

Page 4 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 5 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

3.3 Main difference between Blowing and Pulling

Blowing of cable is different from cable pulling in several ways. During cable pulling,
the cable is kept taut and only pull force is applied. It travels in a straight line until a
bend or a curve changes its path. The cable ultimately rubs on each of the bends or
curves, creating friction. As more pulling force is added to counteract the friction,
additional stress is added to the cable. It is a time consuming process and requires a
larger cabling team.

With the blowing method, typical maximum distances of up to 3.0 Kms can be
achieved. within 2Hrs of time. The blower and a mid-assist attachment will provide a
longer, single run distances compared to a pulling application, blowing cable is faster,
puts the cable under less stress and requires less man power. On the negative side the
blowing equipment is more expensive and the HDPE duct needs to be air tight.

3.4 Cable Blowing principle

This is an advanced method based on the concept of a consistent high pressure air flow,
equally distributed along the entire cable throughout the duct.

AIR INLET
CHAMBER OPEN END

AIR
COMRESSOR
MOVEMENT

O.F.CABLE
DUCT
MECHANICAL
PUSHER

The cable is mechanically fed into the Superjet Machine which will push the cable
inside the cable duct. The additional pushing force from the compressor air at the air
chamber attached to the cable jet machine will improve the cable flow . It also
minimizes the internal temperature for blowing because the air passes to the air chamber
via a cooling device before the entry. This process will minimize the friction between
the cable and the cable duct . A blowing machine (typical manufacturer Superjet) in
combination with an appropriate compressor, cooling device and a power pack is
essential for optimal blowing. For an effective cable blowing at an average speed of
50 -60 meter/min and the compressor should have the following parameters:
Page 5 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 6 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

Discharge Pressure : 10 - 16 bar


Free Air Delivery : 450 CFM.

The pushing force will need to be reduced in temperatures exceeding 35oC to


compensate for loss of cable rigidity. Refer to the basic rules in paragraph 7.

3.5 Factors influencing Optical Fiber blowing

 Inside diameter of the duct.


 Outside cable diameter.
 Cable weight.
 Coefficient of friction between cable sheath and duct inner surface.
 Number of slopes.
 Cable stiffness.
 Compressor parameters.
 Straightness of route.
 Degree of winding (spirally) of the duct in the trench or sub duct in main duct.
 Ambient temperature.
 Quality of duct laying (backfill free from stone).
 Quality of duct and couplings.

3.6 Blowing Chambers & Manholes

3.6.1 Blowing Chamber : These chambers are typically at a distance of 1-2


Km. The size of the blowing chamber is 1m x 1m x 0.7m (length x width
x depth) specifications. These blowing chambers can be temporary and
refilled after accomplishing the blowing operation. Alternatively the
chambers can be a permanent structure made from reinforced concrete or
other suitable material. These specifications affect the maintenance costs
and are decided by the network owner.
3.6.2 Joint Box or Manhole : These are required at the termination and
splicing / joint locations. The distance depends upon the length of the
F.O. cable being used. In developed countries drum lengths of up to 7.2
Kms lengths are used. Joint box / manhole size must be chosen carefully,
taking into account length of splice closure and cable loop required for
splicing and future repair. The joint box/manhole is always greater than
splice closure length and the minimum bending radius of the cable.
Generally a length of 1 metre is sufficient for most modern splice
closures and FO cables up to 96 fibre, as shown in the picture below.
Page 6 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 7 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

A typical joint box and joint closure arrangement is shown in appendix 1. Nomenclature
varies from client to client and quite often the joint box is called a hand hole.

3.6.3 Spare Coil requirements : As per SEC standard & SOW/PTS required
for this project. 15m spare in each end manhole for splice and termination (Para.
5.3.B & 5.3.C).
3.7 The Basic Rules and Recommendations for Blowing Cable in HDPE Duct
 Use a proper compressor (minimum 12 bar). Never underestimate the
compressor parameters.

Ideally the internal diameter (I.D) of the duct should be 2 times the outside diameter
(O.D) of the cable. For appropriate duct size please refer the following table:

S.NO O.D. OF F.O. CABLE(mm) Recommended Duct Size(O.D/I.D) mm


1 9.0-12.5 32/26
2 13.0-16.0 40/33
3 16.5-20.0 50/42

 Before starting the cable blowing, be sure that duct is free of any obstacles or
damage. Also to confirm the maximum withstanding pressure of the cable
duct. Use a proper mandrel equipped with a transmitting device. This method
will quickly locate the damaged areas if any, which must be repaired
immediately.
 Proper cable blowing lubricant (Poly Water) will be used during the cable
blowing in order to reduce friction and to cool the duct. This is a typical
lubricant used in the industry for the cable blowing.

 When cable blowing is carried in high temperatures, protect cable from direct
sunlight where possible. High temperature drastically reduces blowable
lengths. A crush test is mandatory to determine the safe pushing force before
the cable buckles, typically in temperatures greater than 40oC the safe speed

Page 7 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 8 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

is maximum 40m per minute. The use of water sprayed over the cable drum
also gives a good cooling effect.

 HDPE duct consists of several types.


Each type should be evaluated and chosen depending upon site, client and
cable specifications.

a) longitudinal corrugation
b) transverse corrugation
c) dry lubricated coating
d) standard HDPE duct (requiring lubricant)

 The blowing method is far less sensitive to bends and curves along the route
compared to the pulling technique. When using state-of-the-art HDPE duct
and good quality blowing machines (typically Cablejet), it is possible to
safely install F.O. cable around 300 to 900 bends without any additional
lubricant.

 Before beginning the cable blowing, survey the route to determine the best
locations, for access points for blowing machines and compressors. This can save
considerable materials and labour.

 Always blow downhill where ever possible. Up-hill slopes located at the
beginning of the route reduce the blowable length.

 The blowing technique can be used in almost any situation and reduces costs
relative to the pulling method in many cases, blowing exerts less stress on the
cable. This lowered stress combined with fewer splices to the F.O. cable
increases overall network quality.

 The average blowable distance with one machine ranges between 1200 and
2400 meters depending on the above mentioned parameters. Longer distances
can be achieved by utilising several blowing machines in tandem positioned in
access points along the route. Another technique for achieving extra long cable
installation distances is to access the cable at manholes and pull out the cable
using figure of 8 and then continue installation from this point along the route.

 Fleeting the cable in "figure 8" form can be made more efficient by using one
of the proprietary machines now available in the market.

Page 8 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 9 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

3.8 Field planning and Route Survey

Detailed planning of the installation work involved must be carried out prior to
commencement of the work. With the aid of previous project work and documentation
the following must be considered during field planning.

The survey team must carefully investigate the cable route in order to become familiar
with obstructions, etc. which will be present along the route.

Decisions regarding the placement of joints in manholes, in the ground or in cabinets


must be carried out and related to local conditions and regulations. The route must be
straight and free from obstructions and the surveyor should satisfy himself that the duct
has been constructed for the blowing technique i.e. correct compressive couplers with
seals have been used to join the duct; the duct should be continuous for a minimum of 1
km; it should be joined in intermediate manholes and joint boxe(s).

The two cable ends at each joint position on the entire cable route must have an overlap
of a minimum of 10m. Take care that after each cut the cable ends are carefully sealed
against atmospheric factors.

3.9 Testing the duct prior to cable installation

Prior to cable blowing, each section of cable duct shall be checked by blowing through a
special caliper (Piston/Probe) with incorporated sensor to allow localization of the probe
along the route, in case the probe gets stuck due to sharp bends, duct blockage,
deformation or shrinkage.

Localization of the probe shall be possible by portable electronic oscillator device


(Locator) from the surface of the backfilled trench.

Any duct damages or deformations detected during this caliper probe run (mandrel test)
shall be repaired by excavation and replacement of the damaged duct section.

After repair/replacement, the caliper test run must be repeated.

On satisfactory completion of the test run, the FO Cable shall be blown into the HDPE
duct.

Page 9 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 10 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

3.10 Blowing in high temperatures

When ambient air temperatures are 48-50O C the air blowing compressor outlet
temperature becomes about 65O C (The outgoing air temperature for the compressor is
always 15-20O higher than the inlet, even with air cooler). At these temperatures the
HDPE duct begins to loose its properties, becoming soft and sticky. This means the
friction between the cable and duct increases, lowering the blowing efficiency
considerably. The cable sheath also loses it's rigidity which could result in bending or
kinking.

In countries where these temperatures are experienced, the network or project owner,
has to consider installation at night time when it is cooler, or choose the season for
installation carefully to achieve longer cabling lengths.

3.11 Construction Considerations

Ideally the new duct route shall be completely available to enable blowing operation to
be done at one time. This may not always be achievable, due to route construction
delays and lack of building access. In these cases the cable may be installed by hand or
by winch. There is no limit on the length of cable installed, installation by hand or by
winch is equally as safe providing a competent installer is used.

If buildings are delayed, the cable can be blown in to a manhole / hand hole / joint box
left adjacent to the site for the building. A cable coil can be left in the manhole for
extension into the building at a later date. Alternatively, if the transmission
specification allows, the extra length of cable can be jointed or spliced in.

3.12 Safety Note and Precautions

3.12.1 General Precautions


The wearing of eye protection, ear defenders, a hard hat and protective overalls is
necessary, subject to the regulations applicable locally. Depending on the nature
of the site, the use of a breathing mask with fiber is recommended.

Communication between the different work station must be tested and safety
signals / messages such as STOP and RUN are to be perfect understood by the
operators.

Page 10 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 11 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

Whilst installing a cable, operators must be sure to advise the down stream
operators from the instant that the duct is pressurized.

Prior to any connecting or disconnecting operations, the pressure in the supply or


exhaust hoses must be reduced to atmospheric pressure.

Do not pass or stand in front of the outlet of the duct when it is under pressure.

Before the progressive opening of the compressor valve, ensure that the valve of
the Superject is closed, that all connectors are in place and locked and that all
hoses are free of bends, twists and abnormal torsion.

3.12.2 Optical Power Sources and Light Emitting Diodes (LED)

Many optical fiber systems utilize lasers as optical power sources, which produce
invisible radiation. When working normally they are designed to operate as closed
systems and all of this radiation is contained within closed optical fiber paths.

When an optical path is broken (e.g. when an optical connector is disconnected or


when a fiber or fiber splice is broken) exposure to laser radiation is possible.
However, the degree of hazard is reduced when radiation is divergent, as from a
broken fiber.

Some optical fiber systems use light emitting diodes (LED) as power sources.
These LEDs are different to LEDs used as indicators on equipment and are to be
treated in the same way as laser products.

3.12.3 Invisible Radiation

Never look at an unterminated optical fiber or unterminated connector unless the


optical power source has been turned off. Care should be taken to avoid looking
directly at the end of the fiber during preparation and cleaving operations.

During jointing operations use only the microscope on the Fusion Splicer. In
order to avoid possible exposure, before commencing work on a fiber end it should
be checked with an optical power meter to confirm that the power source has been
switched off.

Handle optical fiber carefully as broken fibers can be very sharp and pieces of
waste fiber should be disposed of in a suitable container.

Page 11 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 12 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

3.12.4 When test the duct with a caliper a safety basket must be fitted over the
duct at the receiving end. Always stand away at the far end when the
blowing process is in operation.

3.12.5 Use Safety Goggles

3.13 General Precautions – when installing F.O. cable

Smaller size, greater flexibility and limited weight allow cable span-lengths of up to
several kilometers to be installed in one work operation.

The immunity from electrical disturbances allows optical fiber cable to be installed in
the vicinity of electrical power cables without requirements for any special arrangement
to equalize different potentials and protections against disturbances.

Most of the standard tools, equipment and installation methods used for conventional
copper cables may be used directly for optical fiber cables in many cases.

However, some special precautions must be taken in order to minimize tensile and
bending stresses during installation, as well as after final placement of the cable.

Loads exceeding the cables manufacturing specifications can result in fiber breakage.
Fibers may fail immediately or they may fail later during the service life. External signs
of damage will not necessarily be evident in either case. Thus the tensile load rating of
an optical cable must not be exceeded in any phase of application.

During installation operations, good communication between the crew-members is


necessary. Radio communication by using walkie-talkies is recommended.

A detailed planning record for the actual installation shall be drawn up when the whole
route is physically inspected and should be carried out shortly before starting the work.

Using an already installed duct system is always the most cost effective method and
should be used when it is possible and convenient.

It means in many cases that the shortest cable route does not give the most economical
solution if a more costly installation method must be used, such as trenching by
machine, ploughing, blasting or breaking the ground by other means.

Appendix 1 Typical cable closure arrangement in handhole


Appendix 2 Method of Statement for Duct Integrity Test
Page 12 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 13 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

4. FOC SPLICING
4.1 General Requirement
4.1.1 Cable modality and the splicing reserve length shall be check prior to
FOC splicing. FOC splicing tools, material and environment shall keep
cleanliness. For fiber optic cable connection only electric-arc fusion
splicing is acceptable. Only for test purposes, mechanical splicing is
allowed.
4.1.2 A dustproof and waterproof tent shall be provided at FOC joint point. In
order to ensure that the splicing device is in normal work condition, a
neatly plastic cloth shall be used at drying ground or a worktable shall
be used at damp ground.
4.1.3 Steadily power or generator shall be used for power supply.
4.1.4 The splicing of cables shall be produced by use of fully automatic
splicing devices applying fusion splicing technology.
4.1.5 Fiber splicing shall be operated continually and avoid cable affected
with damp to ensure the connecting quality.
4.1.6 The FOC network shall be terminated at each location at an ODF, which
shall be either wall mounted or standalone. Hook up and splicing shall
be done as per fiber allocation diagram.
4.1.7 Fiber connection parts shall avoid fiber stress.
4.1.8 All spare and standby fibers terminated at the optical distribution frame
shall be connected through patch cords.

Page 13 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 14 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

4.2 Splicing Procedure


4.2.1 Inserting power supply to splicer and turning splicer “ON”.
4.2.2 Clean optical fiber approximately 100mm from the tip.
4.2.3 Place the protection sleeve over the fiber.
4.2.4 Stripping and cleaning fiber.
4.2.5 Strip outer coating 30 to 40 mm from its tip with a stripping tool. Clean
the fiber with lint-free tissue thoroughly. Frequently replace cleaning
gauze to insure splice quality.
4.2.6 Fiber shall be cleaved by cleaver and confirm the sheath of fiber is not
on pad when fiber holder is used.
4.2.7 Loading fiber to splicer

Open wind protector and sheath clamps.


Place prepared fiber onto v-groove so that the fiber tip is located
between the v-groove edge and tip of electrode. If fiber coating has
some memory curl, place fiber so that the curve of memory is
turned upwards. Be careful not to bump the prepared fiber tips into
anything to maintain fiber end-face quality.
Hold fiber with fingers and close sheath clamp so that the fiber
does not move. Make sure the fiber is placed in the bottom of the v-
grooves. If fiber is not placed properly, reload fiber.
Load another fiber in the same manner as above.
Close wind protector.

4.2.8 Splicing

To make a good splice, the optical fiber is observed with the image
processing system equipped in the splicing device. If the measured
cleave angle is greater than its set threshold or fiber chipping is
detected, the buzzer will sound and an error message warns the
operator. If no error message is displayed, the chip, lip and incline
of fiber end-face shall be visual inspection. If observed, remove
Page 14 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 15 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

the fiber from the splicer and repeat fiber preparation.


After fiber inspection, the fibers are aligned core-to-core or
cladding-to-cladding. Cladding axis offset and core axis offset
measurements can be displayed.
After completion of fiber alignment, arc discharge is performed to
splice the fibers.
4.2.9 Removing spliced fiber
4.2.10 Heating protection sleeve

Transfer fiber with protection sleeve to tube heater and protection


sleeve is placed in the center of the tube heater. Make sure the
splice point is located at the center of the protection sleeve and the
strength member in the protection sleeve is placed downwards.
Close the cover and start heating.
Open tube heater lids and remove protected fiber from the tube
heater when tube heating complete.
4.2.11 The splicing test shall be done as per approved ITP and the result shall
be record on report.
5. TEST
5.1 General Requirement
5.1.1 The test device shall be calibrated and calibration certificate shall be
proved prior to test and documented in test result.
5.1.2 The connectors will be cleaned thoroughly before the test is made, since
dirt on the connector may affect the measurement results considerable.
5.1.3 Only if the measurements confirm that all splices, terminations and
attenuations of the several cable sections are according to the
cable/termination specification of manufacture and to this specification a
cable section can be completed. A pigtail with certain length fiber
optical shall be used and suitable pulse width shall be selected to
eliminate the effect of Blind Zone.
5.1.4 All test shall be inspection as per approved ITP and result shall be
record on the Test Forms. In addition, electronic result of OTDR etc.
shall be provided e.g. on CD.

Page 15 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 16 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

5.2 Receipt of Cable Test (RoC)


5.2.1 Reels and cables will be visually inspected to reveal any transportation
damage during shipping and before the reel is transported to the work
site.
5.2.2 Determination of optical length shall be performed.
5.2.3 Attenuation tests of each fiber at 1550nm with OTDR according to IEC
60793-1-4 unidirectional shall be performed.
5.2.4 The measurements shall agree with the cable specification and Factory
Test results.
5.3 Installation Test
An optical time domain reflectometry (OTDR) test shall be performed
immediately after the cables are installed to ensure that there shall be no cable
damage has occurred during the installation. The test will be made at the same
time as splice measurements are carried out. However, it can also be made after
installation.
The following optical parameters will be measured with an OTDR.
Fiber Optic length (m)
Loss per length unit (dB/km)

5.4 Acceptance Test


5.4.1 The following tests shall be performed on each fibre after laying,
installation, splicing and termination of each cable section:
1) Attenuation tests of each fibre at 1550nm nm with (OTDR) IEC
60793 double-sided.
2) Attenuation tests of each fibre at 1550nm with optical power
meters single-sided.
5.4.2 The OTDR test will be done at the same time as the splice loss
measurement using the same OTDR report. In this case the overall link
loss (dB) and link length (Km) shall be taken from the OTDR reports.
5.4.3 The single-sided with optical power meters measurement is taken in one
direction at 1550nm wavelengths. Before the test is conducted the
instruments will be given time to stabilize. A reference value will be
taken to compensate for the loss of the connection leads.

Page 16 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 17 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

6. MEASUREMENT PROCEDURE (OTDR)

6.1 Power on OTDR device.


6.2 Select OTDR
6.3 Press SETUP button.
6.4 Select Detail Mode
This mode allows set all the detail settings, not only Measurement and analysis
setting but also the screen display and system settings. four setup mode (Full Auto
Mode, Wizard Mode, Detail Mode and Multi-Wavelength) can be selected
according to the condition of site and the skill level of technicians. The detail
mode has been an example to describe the process.
6.5 Select measurement setting. Move cursor to setting option press Enter button and
filling the settings
6.6 Press AVE button. The measurement has start.
6.7 Measuring the Optical length
a) Switch the “mark” soft button;
b) Switch the “two-point method”;
c) Turn the turning to display cursor;
d) Move cursor to the beginning side of length measurement and switch the (1)
button, then move the cursor to the ending side and switch the (2) button;
e) Length and attenuation will show on the monitor.
6.8 Measuring the splice loss
a) Switch the “mark” soft button;
b) Switch the “two-point method”;
c) Turn the turning to display cursor;
d) Move cursor to the beginning side of measurement and switch button (1);
e) Move cursor to the beginning side of splicing and switch button (2);
f) Move cursor to the end side of splicing and switch button (Y2);
g) Move cursor to the end side of splicing and switch button (3);
h) The attenuation of splicing will show on the monitor.
6.9 Measuring the return loss and reflection level
a) Switch the “mark” soft button;
Page 17 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 18 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

b) Switch the “two-point method”;


c) Turn the turning forward right to display cursor;
d) Move cursor to the beginning side of case and switch the (1) button, then
move the cursor to the descend side and switch the (2) button.
e) The result of attenuation between 1 and 2 will show on the monitor.
6.10 Attenuation test with optical power meters.
a) Connect one side of pigtail to stabilized light source, the other side
connected to optical power meter.
b) Power on two devices and test.
c) Record the result
d) Connect pigtail to fiber optical.
e) Power on two devices and test again.
Get the last attenuation result of fiber optical channel by calculate the two result.

7. LIST OF MAJOR EQUIPMENTS


Air compressor
FOC blowing machine
FOC cutter
Fiber optical electric-arc fusion splicing machine
OTDR
Stabilized Light Source
Optical power meter with optical sensors
Electricians hand tools
Switch boxes
Crimping tools
Truck with crane 5t

Page 18 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD Page: 19 of 23


& SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

8. CABLE BLOWING ACCESSORIES

8.1 Reducer coupler

Specification: HDPE -PE 100 25mm -32mm reducer coupler SDR 11 (PN 16)

8.2 Liquid Tight Steel Flexible Conduit

Product: Liquid Tight PVC Coated Steel Rugged Flexible Conduit


We recommend to protect FO cable from any damage using steel rugged flexible
conduit coated with PVC. Other option is orange corrugated duct. You can
approve any of this, if not the cable will be looped inside the manhole without any
protection.

Construction: Helically Wound Square / Double Interlock Flexible Conduit


surface PVC over sheath with thick PVC. The Conduit Will be in diameter

Page 19 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD & Page: 20 of 23


SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

through our it's length. The internal surface of the will be free from burrs &
sharp edges.
Colour: Self
PVC Coating: Grey PVC Also available in LFHS. UV resistant
Specification:

 High mechanical strength.


 Flexible
 Temperature range: -15°C to 70°C
 Inherent low fire hazard product.

8.3 Fire Retardant Flexible Orange Hose

Corrugated PVC flexible split tubing is an upgrade to the standard polyethylene


tubing. Since it is constructed of PVC, it is softer than the polyethylene, making it
easier to work with, longer lasting and able to retain its shape longer than the
standard PE material. Constructed of virgin polyethylene compounds, this split
tubing is UV stable for outdoor applications, abrasion and stain resistant and
provides a stable and durable platform for multiple cable or wire routing. It is
available in sizes from 1/2 inch to 2 inch in pure black and safety orange colors.

Flexible corrugated PVC Orange Pipe Specification

 Sizes: 32mm1/2 inch


 Colour: Orange
 Made from fire retardant PVC, UV stable for outdoor use in direct
sunlight
Page 20 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD & Page: 21 of 23


SPLICING / TESTING Rev. : 0
METHOD STATEMENT Issue:
Doc. No.

 A clean split allows easy insertion of wires without tools


 Abrasion resistant, Solvent and acid resistant, does not gap when bent.
 Working Temperatures: 14 degrees F to 167 degrees F
 Minimum bend radius is 3 times I.D. of Hose
 Produced in KSA

8.4 Steel / Plastic Labels for manhole and stations

Labelling in Manholes, Joint Box, Splitter Box, etc. using stainless steel, however cable
tagging in Manholes & buildings shall be provided in Lead Tag as per SEC SOW/PTS
requirements for cable tagging (Para. 5.7).

HH& MH
All the Handhole / Manhole labelling needs to be done in the format:
Material: Stainless Steel, Black Engraved, Label Size: 180mm x 100mm
Text below:
SEC- IT & DT Fiber Optic Cable Systems
MANHOLE/HANDHOLE NO. :
CONTRACT NO. :
LINK DESTINATION/CIRCUIT :
CABLE TYPE/NO. OF CORES :
CABLE MANUFACTURER :
INST. YEAR/CONTRACTOR :

Splice Joint
All the Handhole / Manhole that contains Joint Box labelling needs to be done in the
format:
Material: Stainless Steel, Black Engraved, Label Size: 180mm x 100mm
Text below:
SEC- IT & DT Fiber Optic Cable Systems
MANHOLE/HANDHOLE NO. :
CONTRACT NO. :
JOINT BOX NO. :
LINK DESTINATION/CIRCUI T :
CABLE TYPE/NO. OF CORES :
CABLE MANUFACTURER :
INST. YEAR/CONTRACTOR :

Page 21 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD & Page: 22 of 23


SPLICING / TESTING METHOD STATEMENT Rev. : 0
Issue: 0
Doc. No.

FSTP-FTM

All the FSTP / Splitter Box / FTM labelling needs to be done in the format:
Material: Plastic, Black background with white letters, Label Size: 60mm x 120mm
Text below:
SEC- IT & DT Fiber Optic Cable Systems
CONTRACT NO.:
LINK DESTINATION/CIRCUIT:
CABLE TYPE/NO. OF CORES:
CABLE LENGTH (IN KM):
CABLE MANUFACTURER:
INSTALLATION YEAR/CONTRACTOR:

Cable loop

All the Direction & Loop inside Manhole / Handhole and Telecom rooms labelling
needs to be done in the format:
Material: Stainless Steel, Black Engraved, Label Size: 120mm x 60mm
Text below:
SEC- IT & DT Fiber Optic Cable Systems
CONTRACT NO. :

DIRECTION TO/FROM :

CABLE TYPE/NO. OF CORES :

CABLE MANUFACTURER :

INST. YEAR/CONTRACTOR :

Page 22 of 23
Client: SEC

Subject: FIBRE OPTIC CABLE BLOWING BY JETTING METHOD & Page: 23 of 23


SPLICING / TESTING METHOD STATEMENT Rev. : 0
Issue:
Doc. No.

Direction

All the Joint Box labelling needs to be done in the format:


Material: Stainless Steel, Black Engraved, Label Size: 120mm x 60mm
Text below:
SEC- IT & DT Fiber Optic Cable Systems
MANHOLE/HANDHOLE NO. :
CONTRACT NO. :
JOINT BOX NO. :
LINK DESTINATION/CIRCUIT :
CABLE TYPE/NO. OF CORES :
CABLE MANUFACTURER :
INST. YEAR/CONTRACTOR :

Page 23 of 23

You might also like