Common challenges in specifying and installing closures

Inevitably, there are a large number of challenges that operators face in deploying fibre. This includes the selection and installation of closures. We have therefore put together a list of the common issues involved and the best ways to overcome them.

1.???Selecting the right closure

This is one of the biggest challenges as networks expand, resulting in a variety of different requirements for closures along the route.

There are a number of variables which will determine the right closure to choose, including Where is the closure going to be used on the network? and Ensuring cable compatibility.

In terms of network applications, there are at least three areas of the network that will be relevant here:

• Trunk and feeder network
• Feeder and distribution network
• Distribution and drop network

The closer the network moves to the actual consumer, there is a need for frequent re-entry access. In contrast, in the trunk network, a fit-and-forget solution is often the preferred option. Areas such as MDUs will also require a different solution.

Cable compatibility is complicated by the fact that splices capacities range from 12 to max 288 cores for fiber trunk cables.

Other factors to be taken into account in closure selection include the number of cable ports, the cable termination system, and the types of splices.

The best equipment suppliers will understand this and cover all of these requirements, taking into account such factors as reliability, flexibility, ease of installation, and deployment speed.

2.???Installing a closure and choosing the right sealing technology

Optical fiber closures are typically challenging to install because of the large number of fibers segregation by the tubes going to the cassettes. When managing, it is extremely difficult to make changes due to the?complexity of the distribution of fibers.

Inevitably, using good quality splice closures can make the initial installation easier and quicker. It will also help to ensure that there is less damage where cables are jointed or terminated.

Plus, one of the main challenges is choosing the right sealing technology. There are three main types:

• Heat shrink: Well-established and durable, fairly versatile.
• Rubber: Can be pre-installed and enables easy re-entry into the closure. Rubber seals can be used in feeder and distribution, where openings are less frequent.
• Gel: Also pre-installed, provides long term, high-reliability, ideal for drop networks.

Selection of the sealing technology is critical in terms of water penetration protection and therefore protects the operator’s investment. While individually the seals within the splice enclosures are a minor cost, any arising problems can have a significant impact on the bottom line.

The selection depends on the location of the closure and the frequency of openings:

• Trunk and feeder network: Usually no re-entry need; heat shrink can be used as it is a one-time cost-efficient sealing.
• Feeder and distribution network: Medium re-entry need; Rubber or silicon based sealings are the best. Easy to disassemble, they offer flexibility. However, the disassembled sealing is not always reusable.
• Drop network: Frequent re-entry need; Gel technology is best as it offers an almost infinite re-entry possibility over time. Flexibility and reusable sealings are key when it comes to multiple customer connections in a single closure at different times.

As a manufacturer of high-end closures — for poles, MDUs, or underground FTTx connections — and working internationally with major telcos, OMELCOM offers considerable expertise when it comes to connectivity solutions.