FTTH Drop Cable Production: Step-by-Step Manufacturing Process
Quick fact: over 70% of new broadband deployments in the U.S. now use fiber networks that need high-precision manufacturing to achieve required performance.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment handles full-cycle SZ stranding line manufacturing, from sourcing brand fibers like Fujikura® or Corning® SMF-28e to final test reports that deliver 100% QA.
Our FTTH drop designs suit overhead, ducted, and direct-buried installation, with low-smoke zero-halogen (LSZH), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyethylene (PE) jacket options and core counts from 1–4 cores. We supply OS1/OS2 and OM2–OM4 grades plus G.652D and ITU-T G.657 variants, Pantone-matched sheath colors, and custom logo printing.
Automation and precision equipment keep line speed steady and repeatability high. Typical lead times run four to five days for orders under 100 km and 7–10 days for < 500 km, with an MOQ of 1 km and warranty for free replacement on quality issues.
Read on to learn how our materials, tests, and support work together to reduce lifecycle cost and match the right product to your network system.
- Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment offers complete production and laboratory testing for United States projects.
- A range of jacket options and optical grades support varied installation environments.
- Automated lines and machines deliver stable quality and stable optical performance.
- Fast lead times, low minimums, and brand fiber options help plan procurement reliably.
- Complete reports and warranty back product reliability and compliance documentation needs.
FTTH Manufacturing Expertise by Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment
When project timelines and performance matter, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment provides customized drop cables with complete test documentation.
As a specialized maker and supplier, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment pairs purpose-built equipment with stringent material control. We offer customized service and products for single-family and MDU rollouts. Every order comes with full QA coverage and complete test reports.
Our lab conducts high-temperature, salt spray, and vibration tests to validate durability. Jacket options cover LSZH, PVC, and PE. Designs offer flat bow-type 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 fixturing and calibration reduce variability so every cable meets carrier standards.
FTTH cable production
At Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment, manufacturing steps are matched to network specs, combining brand fiber choices with strict test routines.
Selecting Optical Fiber and Brands
We match fiber draw tower to bend radius, attenuation, and deployment type. Options include OS1, OS2, OM2–OM4 and G.652D and G.657.A1/A2 per ITU-T. Brand fibers such as Fujikura and Corning SMF-28e are offered to satisfy sourcing standards.
Strength Member Options
Strength members use FRP (dielectric) or galvanized steel wire. FRP is preferred where non-conductivity is necessary. Steel wire adds tensile strength for longer aerial spans and grounding needs.
Jacket extrusion and process control
Jacket options include LSZH for flame/smoke safety, PVC for flexibility and ease of handling, and PE for UV/moisture resistance outdoors. Tight process control of temperature and capstan ratios keeps line speed stable and critical dimensions.
| Member | Dielectric FRP | Steel wire |
|---|---|---|
| Primary use | Non-conductive runs | High-tension aerial runs |
| Key benefit | Light, non-corrosive | High strength |
| Installation note | Simple terminations | Requires grounding |
Inline and final testing
Inline geometry and concentricity checks operate in-line. Final optical tests confirm loss and reflectance. Each order includes a 100% test report and lab results from high heat, salt-spray, and vibration trials to qualify field handling and drop terminations.
Typical lead times are 4–5 days for < 100 km and 7–10 days for < 500 km. Lot records and first-article approvals provide 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 pairs tested materials with geometry tuned for field termination and stable optical performance.
The flat bow-type drop keeps a small footprint for risers/ducts. It reduces bend loss for easy routing in MDU corridors and hallways.
Self-Supporting Aerial Designs
Self-supporting FTTH drop designs use a messenger element to carry tensile loads. Choose FRP (dielectric) for non-conductive runs or steel wire when bonding and extra tensile strength are required.
Strength member and core layouts
We provide both dielectric and metallic strength member configurations to match safety and EMI rules. Central loose-tube and flat unitube types balance crush resistance and Fiber draw tower for fast terminations.
Indoor vs Outdoor Jackets
Jacket choices include LSZH for indoor flame/smoke compliance and PE for outdoor UV and moisture resilience. Each family is validated for mechanical and optical quality before shipment.
| Design | Best use | Strength element | Sheath |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flat bow-type | Indoor risers, MDUs | FRP (dielectric) | Low-smoke zero-halogen |
| Self-supporting (aerial) | Overhead spans | FRP/Steel | PE |
| Central loose-tube | Higher-count builds | Dielectric FRP | LSZH/PE |
| Flat unitube | Low-count, easy strip | FRP or steel | LSZH/PE |
Equipment Ensuring Quality and Throughput
Automation with sensor feedback at Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment cut manual handling and increase throughput for drop patch preparation.
Our production line uses automated machines that cut/strip drop cords to raise throughput and cut labor variability.
The CLX-BPO2 automated stripper uses PLC + photoelectric control. One cycle is ~1.5 s, giving real-world speeds near 20 terminal operations per minute.
Automated Cut/Strip for Drop Cords
The equipment strips LSZH/PVC jackets and trims FRP/steel members to precise reserved lengths. Pneumatic cylinder actuators provide quick, repeatable motion and minimize downtime.
Closed-Loop Control for Repeatability
PLC logic and photoelectric sensors give exact positioning and feedback control. Inline checks feed control charts so operators can adjust drifts before defects grow.
| Feature | Spec | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Machine | 1.5s cycle, auto-strip | ~20 terminals/minute throughput |
| Actuation | Cylinder-based | High speed and reliability |
| Material handling | LSZH/PVC; FRP/steel | Clean, accurate preps |
| Process control | PLC + photoelectric + inline checks | Consistent quality, lower rework |
- Auto scrap ejection and ergonomic feeders maintain clean workcells.
- PCPs document calibration and key parameters.
- Combined machines, fixtures, and trained staff help meet FTTH volume goals without compromising 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 prep quality. The unit runs at an approximate cycle time of 1.5 seconds, yielding about 20 terminal preparations per minute in production.
PLC and photoelectric control enable precise detection and repeatable motion. That control keeps strip and stub lengths within tight tolerances.
Throughput & Cycle Time
Typical operation speed is 1.5s per cycle. This enables steady throughput under normal production conditions.
Supported jacket and reserved strength lengths
The CLX-BPO2 handles LSZH/PVC with an adjustable jacket strip length from 17.5–35.0 mm. Reserved stubs are adjustable from 7.0–11.0 mm to fit 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 available for non-standard cross-sections to preserve precision.
- Automatic waste ejection and sensor start cut idle time.
- Small footprint (L40 × W18 × H18 cm), 50W at 110–220V, and 11 kg mass ease integration into workcells.
- Pneumatic cylinders and closed-loop control improve line reliability and reduce maintenance downtime.
| Specification | Rating | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle time | ~1.5 s (~20/min) | High throughput for production runs |
| Jacket strip (A) | 17.5–35.0 mm | Compatible with common connectors |
| Reserved stub (B) | 7.0 to 11.0 mm | Supports termination strength |
| Power/Size | 50W @ 110–220V; 40×18×18 cm | Easy integration into existing equipment |
Using this machine, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment standardizes prep so field teams receive drop parts ready for quick installation. The CLX-BPO2 helps our production lines meet volume goals without sacrificing quality.
Customized specifications to fit your FTTH system
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment configures every order to meet your network requirements and simplify field rollout. We pair concise options with predictable manufacturing windows so your teams get install-ready reels.
Choose 1 to 4 cores with SM or MM fiber. Options include OS1/OS2 plus OM2–OM4 plus G.652D and G.657 variants to match your optics and connector plans.
We match sheath colors to Pantone codes for fast field ID and consistent asset tags.
Branding and Print Options
Select LSZH, PVC, or PE jackets based on route and safety rules. Custom legends/logos aid inventory/warranty tracking.
Lengths, Packaging & Special Builds
Standard reel lengths are 1 km, 2 km, and 4 km with tailored reels and packaging to fit storage/handling. Choose flat bow-type or self-supporting and steel wire or FRP strength members to fit span and isolation requirements.
| Choice | Typical | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Reel length | 1 / 2 / 4 km | Less staging, easier reels |
| Jacket | LSZH / PE / PVC | Indoor/Outdoor fit |
| Structure | Flat bow / Self-supporting | Routing and span flexibility |
As a supplier, Shanghai Weiye aligns runs to your schedule and delivers documentation that lists final specifications for easy on-site QA.
QA, Testing & Documentation
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment builds checkpoints into production so every item has recorded acceptance data at ship.
Environmental and Mechanical Tests
Our lab runs high-temperature exposure, salt spray corrosion, and vibration tests to qualify materials and assemblies. These tests simulate field stresses for indoor and outdoor use.
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 stop nonconforming items before they leave the factory.
Traceability and compliance
Batch records link tests to reels/serials so audits and warranty claims are simple to verify. Documentation follows common customer templates to accelerate approvals and receiving inspection.
- In-line checks plus final inspection prevent field failures and cut warranty events.
- Quality packages include spec confirmation and formatted test data for quick review.
- Continuous test trends drive preventive maintenance and raise long-term reliability.
| Trial | Purpose | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Heat exposure | Material stability | Validated heat endurance |
| Salt spray | Corrosion robustness | Qualified for outdoor use |
| Mechanical vibration | Mechanical robustness | Improved field reliability |
Pricing and cost drivers for FTTH drop cable
Budget planning for a drop starts with fiber and jacket choices and is shaped by volume and customization.
Typical prices range broadly—from about $30 to $1,000 per unit—based on fiber grade (G.652/G.657/OM2–OM4), jacket chemistry (LSZH, PVC, PE), reel length, and structural design.
Materials, Grade, Jacket & Structure
The primary cost drivers are fiber optic grade, sheath material, and the structural type chosen for deployment.
Self-supporting designs and steel members raise material and labor input. Custom sheath colors/logos/legends add setup and impact pricing on small runs.
How Volume & Options Affect Cost
Longer reels and higher volume orders lower unit cost. Small quantities often carry setup fees and higher unit prices.
- Changeovers and special cutters extend lead time and add to cost.
- Clear RFQs with schedule alignment let Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment match quotes to delivery windows.
- Frameworks and indexed pricing stabilize budgets across phases.
| Driver | Price impact | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber grade | High impact | Right-size spec to budget |
| Jacket type | Medium impact | Evaluate LSZH vs PE |
| Order length / volume | High impact | 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 windows cut downtime and control costs when a rollout is underway.
Production Windows & Capacity
Typical production windows run 4–5 days for orders under 100 km and 7–10 days for orders under 500 km. We plan capacity to match your rollout milestones and to maintain on-time delivery.
The service team provides updates/tracking so installation teams know when reels arrive. For compressed schedules, we hold contingency capacity to accelerate critical-path orders.
Minimum order quantity and why it matters
The MOQ is 1 km. This reflects setup needs such as wire and jacket die adjustments that use startup material and generate scrap.
We review your length and staging plans to select reels to reduce waste/handling. Staggered batches can balance inventory with frequent, smaller deliveries to job sites.
Where and How to Deploy
On-site conditions dictate whether a self-supporting span, duct pull, or direct-buried run is the right choice for a project.
Deployment Considerations
For aerial runs, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment advises self-supporting designs with appropriate members to control sag and tension for long-term stability.
Duct installations work best with low-friction jackets and crush-resistant constructs so pulling avoids fiber damage. PE jackets are common for underground and buried paths where moisture resistance is needed.
Direct-buried designs need correct burial depth per local codes and moisture-resistant jackets to protect the optic core over time.
Indoor Distribution and ONT
Indoor riser/plenum routes favor LSZH jackets 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 needs, lightning risk, and hardware fit. Standardized prep from the production line reduces install time and minimizes scrap.
| Deployment | Key feature | Field note |
|---|---|---|
| Aerial | Self-supporting, steel or FRP | Verify messenger hardware/tension |
| Duct | Low-friction jacket, crush resistance | Use pull tape + lubricant |
| Direct-buried | PE jacket, moisture barrier | Follow depth/warning tape codes |
| Indoor | LSZH with tight-bend support | Maintain bend radius at wall penetrations |
Our approach delivers a consistent installation across indoor outdoor transitions. That leads to fewer callbacks, faster activations, and stable field performance for your system.
Comprehensive Support & After-Sales
Our team coordinates tests, line schedules, and installation guidance to remove surprises during deployment.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment provides engineering support from early requirements through approved drawings and pilot builds. We provide doc templates and clear install notes so field crews work from the same plan.
After-sales service covers rapid response, root-cause analysis, and corrective actions. All products ship with full reports and traceability to help QA acceptance.
- 24/7 availability for status and technical support.
- Warranty includes free replacement for confirmed quality issues.
- Schedule coordination for urgent changes or acceleration requests.
- Config control so shipped items match agreed specs consistently.
| Area | What we do | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering | Specs + pilots | Reduced field issues |
| QA/Testing | Lab trials & 100% test reports | Full traceability |
| After-sales | Rapid replacement & root-cause | Minimized downtime |
Conclusion
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 lab trials to support field acceptance in the United States.
A hardened production line, including CLX-BPO2-enabled prep machines, reduces variability and shortens turnaround. Our equipment and machines standardize strip/stub lengths so installers see consistent results at turn-up.
From fiber selection through jacket, printing, and packaging, we balance performance and cost to maximize 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 specifications, timeline, and volume. We stand behind every shipment with lab validation and responsive service.