How to choose an optical cable ? OPPC vs ADSS vs OPGW

Preview and key definitions

OPPC (Optical Phase Conductor)

L’OPPC (Optical Phase Conductor) is a composite optical cable incorporating optical fiber units directly into the phase driver of a power line. He plays both the role of driver for the transmission of electricity (Replacing traditional aluminum drivers or aluminum-acier cables) and that of optical data transmission support. It is mainly used in networks where simultaneous energy and data transmission is necessary.

Table of Contents

Main Features

Double function : Simultaneously ensures the transport of the three -phase current and the optical transmission.

Integrated structure : optical fibers are incorporated into the interior of the driver, Without independent support structure.

Applications : Modernization of medium and low voltage distribution networks, Integration of renewable energies (ex. : Photovoltaic parks).

ADSA OPTICAL FIBER AIR CABLE
ADSA OPTICAL FIBER AIR CABLE

ADSS (All-Dielectric Self-Supporting)

L’ADSS (All-Dielectric Self-Supporting) East an optical cable entirely dielectric and self -supporting. To structure, devoid of metal components, allows it to be suspended between the pylons without requiring metal support associated with electric lines.

Main Features

Without metal components : Composed only of Aramid fibers, fiberglass (FRP) and polyethylene (PE), He is insensitive to electromagnetic interference.

Independent installation : can be fixed to existing power lines without interruption of service.

Applications : Extension of communication networks on existing high voltage lines, Interregional long distance transmission.

OPGW (Optical Ground Wire)

The opgw (Optical Ground Wire) is a composite fiber cable integrated in the guard cable (earthen thread) airlines. It combines the functions of protection against lightning and transmission of optical data, which makes it a privileged solution for high and very high voltage lines.

Main Features

Double protection : The outer layer in metal wires ensures mechanical resistance and lightning protection, while the internal optical fiber unit ensures data transmission.

High reliability : lifespan that can exceed 30 ans, Resistance to extreme environmental conditions.

Applications : New high -voltage electricity transport infrastructure, Modernization of intelligent networks.

OPPC Optical Fiber Cable
OPPC Optical Fiber Cable

Comparison of structures and materials

Oppc structure

Conductive layer

The outer layer consists of aluminum steel wires (ACS) or aluminum alloy, with a section designed according to the current capacity (ex. : 240 mm² ou 300 mm²).

Optical fiber unit

Optical fibers (monomodes or multimodes, Generally G.652D or G.655) are integrated either in the center of the driver, either in a helical layer, Protected by a stainless steel or aluminum tube.

Insulation layer (optional)

Some models incorporate reticulated polyethylene insulation (XLPE) To limit electrical losses.

Materials benefits

The aluminum driver offers excellent conductivity.

The stainless steel tube protects optical fibers against thermal dilation.

ADSS structure

Reinforcement

Consisting of aramid fibers or reinforced plastic of glass fibers (FRP), It ensures traction resistance ≥ 100 kN.

Loose tube

Optical fibers are placed in loose tubes in PBT (Polybutylene Téréphtalate) filled with gel blocking humidity, which reduces mechanical constraints.

Protective layer

Double layer design : An inner layer of water -repellent material and an external layer in AT/PE resistant to arc traces (UV resistant polyethylene).

Materials benefits

Its entirely dielectric design prevents electrical corrosion.

Suitable for environments with high electric field, like the high -voltage lines of 500 kV.

OPGW optical fiber cable
OPGW optical fiber cable

Structure de l’OPGW

Layer of twisted metal wires

Made up of aluminum steel threads (AS) or aluminum alloy, with a section generally between 50 et 150 mm².

Optical fiber unit

Integrated into a stainless steel tube or in an aluminum structure, containing 12 et 144 optical fibers, Filled with gel blocking humidity.

Anticorrosion

Some models increase the proportion of aluminum steel wires (until 60 %) To improve corrosion resistance in salt environment.

Materials benefits

Aluminum steel wires combine electrical conductivity and mechanical resistance.

Suitable for large -range facilities (≥ 1000 meters).

Comparison of cable structures

ComponentsOPPCADSSOPGW
DriverAluminum alloy torus (AA-1350) No driver(Fully dielectric cable) Aluminum steel torus (AACSR)
Optical fiber unitStainless steel tube (diameter 3,0-5,0 mm) Loose tube with reinforcement in aramidAluminum or stainless steel tube (double seal)
Insulation layerXLPE (thickness 3 has 15 mm)  None (Direct chickens)  None (The metal tube offers natural shielding) 
Structure externeDouble extrusion PE with anti-UV formulaHDPE Gaine + anti-trace coatingAluminum steel torus + anticorrosion coating

Comparison of key technical parameters

SettingOPPC (Typical value)ADSS (Typical value)OPGW (Typical value)
Section70-400 mm²N/A50-300 mm²
External diameter12-35 mm10-20 mm12-30 mm
Electric resistance in direct current (20℃)0,25-0,06 Ω/kmN/A0,3-0,08 Ω/km
Tension nominale36-245 kV1-35 kV (Veriman conductors tension)72-550 kV
Short-circuit current capacity10-40 the (1 s)N/A20-100 the (0,5 s)
Tensile strength (RTS)70-150 kN15-50 kN80-200 kN
Operating temperature range-40℃ to +80 ℃-40℃ to +70 ℃-50℃ at +85 ℃
Optical attenuation (1550 nm)≤0,22 dB/km≤0,23 dB/km≤0,21 dB/km
Minimal curvature radius20× cable diameter15× cable diameter25× cable diameter

Mechanical and environmental performance

Traction resistance and arrow characteristics

OPPC

Truption resistance depends on the driver himself, which leads to a more important arrow (requires installation with tensioner). Typical scope ≤ 500 m.

ADSS

Aramid fibers offer high resistance to traction, reducing the arrow (installation possible sans tension). Scope of 800 has 1 500 m.

OPGW

Metal tortiles ensure extremely high mechanical resistance. Scope of 1 000 has 2 000 m, adapted to complex terrain such as rivers and gorges.

Resistance to environmental conditions

Resistance to wind vibrations

The opgw, heavier (environ 500-800 kg/km), is less affected by wind vibrations. ADSS requires the installation of vibration shock absorbers.

Corrosion resistance

L’OPPC, With its aluminum layer, is sensitive to acid corrosion (acid rain). OPGW improves its corrosion resistance thanks to aluminum steel wires. L’ADSS, metal -free, offers the best resistance to chemicals.

Resistance to frost and bad weather

The opgw, heavier, is more subject to the accumulation of ice and requires a specific design to resist it. L’ADSS, with a reduced diameter, limits the risk of snow and frying.

Comparison of environmental adaptability

Environmental challengeSolution OPPCSolution ADSSSolution OPGW
High temperature (> 80°C)High temperature optical gel (Resistance up to 120 ° C)Risk of softening of the PE sheath (Limit of 70 ° C)Aluminum tube design for thermal dissipation (Resistance up to 85 ° C)
Cold extreme (< -40°C)XLPE Basse Température (elasticity module retention rate > 85%)Gel resistant PE material (certified in 50396)Special aluminum alloy (elongation > 15%)
Forte corrosion salineGalvanized steel soul + double gaine pe (Salin fog test > 5000 h)Silicone coating + Electric traces resistant sheathAluminum steel structure + Anticorrosion fat filling
UV exposureUV stabilized sheath with 2,6 % carbon black (lifetime > 30 ans)Triple coextrusion sheath (UV absorber + reflective layer)Natural shielding by the aluminum layer (No additional protection required)
Ice accumulation (> 20 mm)Preformed shock absorber (limits the amplitude of oscillations < 1 m)Low arrow design (Supported ice load < 15 mm)High resistance steel soul (Supported ice load > 30 mm)

OPPC : Adapted to environments with high mechanical loads (ex. : Large mountain rails), But thermal stability must be taken into account (temperature elevation under continuous load of 100-120 ° C).

ADSS : Avoid in high electric field zones (ex. : on the outskirts of conversion stations). It is recommended to use an AT sheath and limit exposure to a field < 25 kV/m.

OPGW : First choice for areas subject to thunderstorms, But requires the installation of parafudres to reduce the risk of secondary overvoltage.

Optical fiber air cable
OPPC cable (Optical phase driver ) Optical fiber air cable

Electrical performance and safety

Electromagnetic compatibility (CEM)

OPPC : The driver being under tension (ex. : 10 kV), Rigorous insulation is necessary to avoid any electromagnetic interference affecting fiber optics.

ADSS : Entirely dielectric structure, does not generate any current induced even under an electric field of 500 kV, thus offering the best security.

OPGW : Works like a guard cable without potential difference, But we must monitor the thermal effects induced by short-circuit currents.

Resistance to short-circuit currents

OPPC : The short-circuit current crosses the driver, requiring a stable thermal capacity calculation (ex. : A driver of 240 mm² can support 40 To/ 1 Seccoid).

OPGW : Short-circuit current is supported by external metal wires, with high resistance capacity (until 60 the).

ADSS : Non -driver, It is not affected by the impact of short-circuit currents.

In -depth comparison of transmission and power supply performance

SettingOPPCADSSOPGW
Optical weakening (1550 nm)≤0.22 dB/km (compensation by dynamic over-lending)≤0.23 dB/km (Limitation of static over-length)≤0.21 dB/km (advantage of metal shielding)
Maximum scope1000 m (requires a spacing of shock absorbers ≤30 m)500 m (limited by resistance to the tensile of the aramid)1500 m (Supported by a high RTS steel nucleus)
Short-circuit current capacity40 the (1 s, aluminum merger : 660°C)Non applicable100 the (0.5 s, aluminum-acier merger >1500°C)
Current carrying capacity (240 mm²)510 A (ambient temperature of 40 ° C, according to IEC 61597)Non applicableNon applicable
Electromagnetic compatibilityRequires a shielding layer to limit interference due to crowns (electric field <20 kV/m)Entirely dielectric structure, Resistance to interference (electric field >100 kV/m)Requires protection against side effects of lightning (Earth -putting resistance <10 Oh)
Tension d’installation15%-25% RTS (must be adapted to adjacent drivers)10%-20% RTS (avoids cracking under the constraint of the sheath)18%-30% RTS (control of the plastic deformation of the steel core)

Applications

Typical OPP applications

Modernization of distribution networks

Suitable for distribution lines Average and low voltage (10 KV/35 kv) requiring simultaneous upgrading of electricity and telecommunications. For example, replacing traditional aluminum drivers with OPPS saves infrastructure and facilitating distribution automation.

Integration into renewable energies

In solar power plants and wind farms, OPPC directly integrates energy transmission and data monitoring, thus reducing the installation costs of additional cables.

Urban network extension

In urban areas with limited space, OPPC operates existing drivers to avoid repeated excavation work.

ADSS key applications

Extension of communication networks on existing lines

The ADSS can be installed directly on online lines (Like the pylons of 220 kV), thus facilitating the deployment of electrical network monitoring networks or the extension of telecom operators' backbones.

Crossing complex land

Thanks to its lightness (only 200-300 kg/km) and its ability to cover long worms, ADSS is ideal for crossing obstacles such as rivers and railways.

Environments with high electromagnetic interference

Its entirely dielectric structure allows a safe installation near high voltage stations, without risk of electromagnetic induction.

Key Applications of the OPGW

High and very high voltage new lines

As an optical guard cable, OPGW is a standard choice for the transmission lines of 500 KV/750 kv, Combining network protection and high speed data transmission.

Modernization of intelligent electrical networks

The OPGW provides a reliable communication link for intelligent electrical posts and dynamic monitoring of loads.

Transnational interconnection projects

In cross -border electrical connection projects (Like the China-Laos interconnection), The OPGW performs a double function : Lightning protection and intercontinental data transmission.

opgw fiber optic cable
opgw fiber optic cable

Cost-effectiveness and profitability analysis

Initial cost

ADSS cable

Benefits : Entirely dielectric structure, requiring no metal support, which makes it the most economical option to purchase (30 has 50 % cheaper than OPGW). Adapted to existing lines, its installation does not require network interruption, thus reducing time and implementation costs.

Disadvantages : Dependence on aramid fibers for mechanical resistance, which makes it sensitive to aging in extreme climatic conditions (ex. : frosted). Shorter lifespan (15-20 ans), resulting in a higher long -term maintenance cost.

OPGW cable

Benefits : Combines the functions of guard cable and fiber optics, overall cost lower than the separate installation of a guard cable + Optical fiber (Economy of about 10-20 %). Ideal for new high voltage lines (220 kV and more), installed at the same time as drivers, thus reducing redundant construction costs.

Disadvantages : Highest initial investment, requiring metal conductors and a complex structure. What's more, its installation requires a stirring, that can cause financial losses.

OPPC cable

Benefits : Directly replaces the phase driver, saving energy losses on the guard line (ex. : A line of 220 KV can save about 140 000 kwh par and). Suitable for average and low voltage networks without guard line (≤ 35 kV).

Disadvantages : Overall overall cost of approximately 50 % at the OPGW (higher cost of cable, Connection boxes and accessories). Requires specific insulation and more complex installation.

Long -term profitability

ADSS cable

Maintenance cost : Requires regular monitoring of the aging of aramid fibers. Lifetime (≈15 ans), resulting in more frequent replacement costs.

Application scenarios : Limited budget projects, short -term communication needs or complex topography zones (ex. : mountain regions).

OPGW cable

Sustainability and reliability : Corrosion -resistant metal structure, lifespan of more than 25 ans, requiring little maintenance. Suitable for high reliability networks, such as telecommunications ridges.

Energy efficiency : Works like a good driver, reducing flight currents and electromagnetic interference, which indirectly decreases the losses of the network.

OPPC cable

Specific advantages : Can integrate a defrosting system in areas subject to frost, Increased resistance to natural disasters compared to OPGW and ADS.

Energy saving potential : By replacing the classic phase driver, It reduces energy losses on the guard line, offering long -term profitability.

Cost-effectiveness according to the scenarios

Optical fiber typeScenario OptimalKey profitability points
ADSSModernization of existing lines, medium voltage distribution networksLow initial cost, installation flexible, but higher maintenance cost.
OPGWNew high voltage lines, Telecommunications dorsal networksBetter overall return, Ideal for reliability and longevity needs.
OPPCMedium voltage networks, Environment without daycareSignificant energy savings, But higher initial investment.

Strategic recommendations

The OPGW represents the highest initial investment, But its reliability and longevity make it the most profitable option on the total life cycle. ADSS is optimal for short -term or limited budget projects.

  1. Favor the adss if a rapid and economical deployment is required, or to avoid power cuts (ex. : Modernization of urban networks).
  2. Opt for the OPGW for new high voltage lines, Because it combines guard cable functionality and optical transmission, minimizing long -term costs.
  3. Choosing the OPPS in medium voltage networks where energy savings and resistance to extreme conditions are priorities.

Note : The final choice depends on the network voltage level, installation conditions, maintenance capacities and regulations (ex. : environmental requirements). For example, ADSS is more suitable for electromagnetically sensitive environments (ex. : electrical posts), while the OPGW is more profitable on long distances.

Comparison of life cycle management

Management dimensionOPPCADSSOPGW
Design phaseRequires precise correspondence of the parameters of the three phases (impedance error <3%).Calculation of spatial potential distribution (Electric erosion prevention).Checking thermal stability of the guard cable (Resistance to short-circuit currents).
Phase d’installationRequires under tension interventions with isolated nacelle.Installation sous tension possible (voltage control ± 5%).Synchronized replacement with the guard line (Examination out or on voltage installation).
Maintenance phaseInfrared thermography monitoring + Optical constraint sensors (double redundancy).Periodic sheathing inspection against electric erosion (all the 2 ans).Surveillance with lightning impact counter + Earth resistance test.
Breakdown0,05 incident/100 km/an (main risk : overheated).0,12 incident/100 km/an (main risk : Gaking aging).0,08 incident/100 km/an (main risk : lightning).
Lifetime30 ans (Synchronized aging of sheathing and driver).25 ans (limited by the degradation of aramid fibers).35 ans (advantage of corrosion resistance of the metal tube).

Cable selection guide

Project requirements

For new high voltage lines, Opt for the OPGW.

For renovation projects, Choose OPPC or ADSS.

Environmental conditions

In high corrosion areas, Favor ADSS or OPGW.

In regions subject to frequent thunderstorms, OPGW is essential.

Budgetary constraints

For a limited budget, ADSS is the best choice.

For long -term investment and optimal stability, Opt for the OPGW.

Technical specifications

If a high tensile resistance (>100 kN) is required, Choose the OPGW.

If protection against electromagnetic interference is necessary, The ADSS is more suitable.

Advantages of ZMS Cable cables

Tailor -made : Adaptation to different tensions, fiber capacities and mechanical constraints.

High sustainability : Quality materials guaranteeing stable long -term operation (OPGW lifespan until 35 ans).

Excellent corrosion resistance : Suitable for extreme environments (coastal areas, high -moisture, Severe climatic conditions).

Global presence : ZMS cables are exported to more than 100 pays, meeting the needs of electric line renovation projects, renewable energy and communication networks.

OPPC fiber optic cable
OPPC Optical Fiber Cable

Technological trends and innovations

Improvement of materials

OPPC incorporates carbon fiber composites, reducing weight while increasing tensile resistance.

The sheaths ADSS cables evolve towards better resistance to high temperatures (+90°C), Suitable for tropical climates.

Intelligent integration

The OPGW can be equipped with fiber optic sensors to monitor the driver's temperature in real time, The arrow and the impacts of lightning.

Cost optimization

Large -scale production could reduce the cost of OPPs at the ADSS level.

Innovation at ZMS Cable

Optical fiber sensor technology : ZMS OPGW incorporates monitoring systems to measure temperature and mechanical voltage, Facilitating preventive maintenance.

Cost reduction : Thanks to advanced manufacturing processes, ZMS optimizes production and improves the quality/price ratio of high performance cables.

Conclusion

OPPC cables, ADSS and OPGW offer each of the specific advantages :

OPPC : The ideal solution for the integration of electricity and telecommunications.

ADSS : An economical and flexible option for additional communication networks.

OPGW : The essential choice for high -voltage infrastructure.

Final recommendations

Electric companies : OPGW is recommended for new high voltage lines, while the OPPC and the ADSS must be assessed for modernization projects.

Telecom operators : ADSS is preferable for long distance networks, Because it minimizes interference with electrical infrastructure.

Renewable energies sector : OPPC is recommended for wind and solar parks to simplify the wiring of control systems.

This completes the comparative comparative analysis of the OPP, of the ADSS and the OPGW. For more technical details or cases, Please contact the specialized sellers of ZMS Cable or consult standards such as IEEE 1138, IEC 60794, etc.