FTTH Drop Cable Production: Manufacturing Process Explained
Surprising fact: in excess of 70% of new broadband deployments in the U.S. now depend on fiber networks that need precise manufacturing to hit performance targets.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment runs full-cycle FTTH cable production line manufacturing, from sourcing brand fibers like Fujikura or Corning® SMF-28e to comprehensive test documentation that ensure 100% quality assurance.
Our FTTH drop designs fit overhead, underground, and direct burial installation, with LSZH, PVC, and polyethylene (PE) jacket options and arrangements from 1 to 4 cores. We supply OS1/OS2 and OM2–OM4 grades plus G.652D and ITU-T G.657 variants, Pantone sheath colors, and custom logo printing.
Automated machines and high-precision equipment stabilize line speed and keep repeatability high. Typical lead times run 4–5 days for orders under 100 km and 7–10 days for < 500 km, with an MOQ of 1 km and warranty covering free replacement for confirmed quality issues.
Read on to learn how our materials, tests, and support help reduce lifecycle cost and align the product to your network needs.
- Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment provides full manufacturing with lab validation for United States projects.
- A range of jacket options and optical grades support different install environments.
- Automated lines and machines ensure stable quality and reliable optical performance.
- Fast lead times, low minimums, and brand fiber options keep procurement predictable.
- Comprehensive test reports and after-sales warranty back product reliability and documentation needs.
Expert FTTH manufacturing by Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment
When deadlines and performance are critical, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment provides tailored drop solutions with full test documentation.
As a focused supplier and manufacturer, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment pairs purpose-built equipment with stringent material control. We offer customized service and products for residential and MDU rollouts. Every order includes 100% quality assurance and complete test reports.
Our lab runs high heat, salt-fog, and vibration testing to verify durability. Jacket options cover LSZH, PVC, and PE. Designs include bow-type flat 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.
- Technical support for specs, trials, and ramp to volume.
- Modern fixtures and calibration minimize variation so every cable matches operator specs.
FTTH cable production
At Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment, manufacturing steps are built around network requirements, combining brand fiber choices with strict test routines.
Optical fiber selection and brand options
We align FTTH cable production line to bend radius, loss, and install environment. Options include OS1/OS2 and OM2–OM4 and ITU-T G.652D, G.657.A1/A2. Brand fibers such as Fujikura and Corning SMF-28e are available to satisfy sourcing standards.
Strength Member Options
Strength members use dielectric FRP or galvanized steel wire. FRP is ideal where non-conductive runs are required. Steel wire adds tensile strength for long-span aerial runs and bonding/grounding needs.
Jacket extrusion and process control
Jacket options include LSZH for indoor flame safety, PVC for flexibility and ease of handling, and PE for outdoor UV and moisture resistance. Tight process control of temperature and capstan ratios keeps line speed stable and dimensional tolerances.
| Member | FRP | Steel wire |
|---|---|---|
| Primary use | Electrical isolation | High-tension aerial runs |
| Advantage | Light, non-corrosive | Very high tensile strength |
| Installer note | Simple terminations | Bonding/grounding required |
Inline and final testing
Inline geometry and concentricity checks run during manufacturing. Final optical tests verify attenuation and reflectance. Each order includes a full test report and lab results from high heat, salt-spray, and vibration tests to confirm handling for drop terminations and field use.
Typical lead times are under 100 km in 4–5 days and 7–10 days for < 500 km. Lot records and FAI approvals provide traceability and compliance for U.S. programs.
FTTH drop cable types and structures we manufacture
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment offers a focused portfolio of drop designs that cover tight indoor routes and exposed aerial spans. Each option pairs tested materials with geometry tuned for field termination and consistent optical performance.
The bow-type flat drop cable keeps a small footprint for risers/ducts. It keeps bend loss low for simple routing in MDU corridors and hallways.
Self-supporting designs for aerial spans
Self-supporting FTTH drop designs use a support messenger to carry tensile loads. Choose dielectric FRP for electrical isolation or steel messenger when bonding/grounding and extra tensile strength are required.
Layouts & Strength Members
We offer both dielectric and metallic strength member configurations to match safety and EMI rules. Center loose tube and flat unitube types balance crush resistance and fiber secondary coating line for quick termination.
Indoor vs Outdoor Jackets
Jacket choices include LSZH for indoor flame/smoke compliance and PE for outdoor durability. Each family is qualified for mechanical/optical performance before shipment.
| Type | Application | Strength member | Sheath |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flat bow-type | Indoor risers, MDUs | Dielectric FRP | LSZH |
| Self-supporting (aerial) | Overhead spans | Steel wire or FRP | 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 and sensor-driven feedback at Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment cut manual handling and boost throughput for drop patch preparation.
Our production line integrates automated machines that cut/strip drop cords to raise throughput and reduce operator variability.
The CLX-BPO2 auto-stripping machine runs under PLC and 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 and PVC jackets and trims FRP or steel strength members to precise stub lengths. Cylinder-driven actuators deliver fast, repeatable motion and low downtime.
PLC & Photoelectric for Precision
PLC logic and photoelectric sensors deliver precise positioning and feedback control. Inline checks feed control charts so operators can correct trends before out-of-control conditions occur.
| Feature | Capability | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Machine | Auto-strip, ~1.5 s cycle | ~20 terminals/minute throughput |
| Actuation | Cylinder-based | Fast/reliable motion |
| Materials | LSZH & PVC; FRP & steel | Accurate stubs, clean terminations |
| Control | PLC/photoelectric with in-line SPC | Consistent quality, lower rework |
- Auto scrap ejection and ergonomic feeders keep the line clean.
- Process control plans capture calibration intervals and critical parameters.
- Combined machines, fixtures, and trained staff support FTTH volume targets without sacrificing accuracy.
What the CLX-BPO2 Adds
The CLX-BPO2 provides industrial-grade strip/trim to our line, reducing cycle time while maintaining consistent prep.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment deploys the CLX-BPO2 to raise output and standardize terminal quality. The unit runs at an approximate cycle time of 1.5 seconds, yielding about 20 terminal preparations per minute in production.
PLC/photoelectric control deliver exact detection and repeatable motion. That control helps keep strip lengths and reserved strength stubs within tight tolerances.
Cycle time and throughput
Typical operation speed is ~1.5 seconds per cycle. This translates to steady throughput under continuous line conditions.
Supported Strip and Stub Lengths
The CLX-BPO2 strips LSZH and PVC jackets with an adjustable strip length from 17.5 to 35.0 mm. Reserved stubs are adjustable from 7.0–11.0 mm to match common termination hardware.
FRP & Steel Member Handling
The machine cleanly cuts FRP and steel wire strength elements while protecting neighboring fibers. Customized cutters are offered for nonstandard sizes to maintain precision.
- Automatic waste ejection and sensor start cut idle time.
- Compact size (L40 × W18 × H18 cm), 50W at 110–220V, and 11 kg mass ease integration into workcells.
- Pneumatic cylinders and closed-loop control boost reliability and reduce maintenance downtime.
| Specification | Rating | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle time | ~1.5 s (~20/min) | High throughput for production runs |
| Strip lengths (A) | 17.5 to 35.0 mm | Compatible with common connectors |
| Stub (B) | 7.0 to 11.0 mm | Meets strength and termination needs |
| Power/Size | 50W @ 110–220V; 40×18×18 cm | Simple integration |
Using this machine, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment standardizes prep so field teams get drop parts install-ready. The CLX-BPO2 helps our production lines meet volume goals without compromising quality.
Customized specifications to fit your FTTH system
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment configures every order to fit your network requirements and simplify field rollout. We combine focused options with predictable schedules so your teams receive ready-to-install products.
Choose 1 to 4 cores with single-mode or multimode fiber. Options include OS1/OS2 plus OM2–OM4 along with G.652D/G.657 variants to match your optics and connector plans.
We match sheath colors to Pantone codes for fast field ID and consistent asset tagging.
Jackets, Legends & Branding
Select LSZH, PVC, or PE jackets based on route and safety rules. Custom print legends and logos support inventory and 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.
| Option | Common choice | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 1, 2, or 4 km | Less staging, easier reels |
| Jacket | LSZH / PE / PVC | Indoor/outdoor compatibility |
| Design | Flat bow / Self-supporting | Flexible routing/span |
As a supplier, Shanghai Weiye schedules runs to your plan and delivers documentation that lists final specifications for straightforward QA on site.
QA, Testing & Documentation
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment embeds quality checkpoints across the production line so every item ships with recorded acceptance data.
Environmental and Mechanical Tests
Our lab conducts elevated-temperature exposure, salt spray corrosion, and vibration tests to qualify materials/assemblies. These tests recreate field stresses for indoor/outdoor applications.
Per-Reel 100% Reports
Every fiber optic cable includes a 100% test report that logs attenuation, return loss, and geometry where applicable. Final QC gates stop nonconforming items before they leave the factory.
Traceability and compliance
Batch records tie test data to reels and serials so audits and warranty claims are simple to verify. Documentation uses standard customer templates to accelerate approvals and receiving inspection.
- In-line checks plus final inspection reduce field failures and lower warranty events.
- QA packages include spec confirmation and formatted data for quick review.
- Continuous test trends inform preventive maintenance and raise long-term reliability.
| Test | Why | Result |
|---|---|---|
| High-temperature | Material stability | Pass at target temperature |
| Salt spray | Corrosion resistance | Qualified for outdoor use |
| Vibration | Mechanical robustness | Reduced field failures |
Pricing and cost drivers for FTTH drop cable
Budgeting for a drop run starts with fiber and jacket choices and is refined by volume and customization.
Typical prices range broadly—from about $30–$1,000 per unit—based on fiber grade (G.652/G.657/OM2–OM4), jacket chemistry (LSZH, PVC, PE), reel length, and design structure.
Materials, Grade, Jacket & Structure
The primary cost drivers are fiber grade, sheath material, and the structural type chosen for deployment.
Self-supporting designs and steel members increase material/labor. Custom colors, logos, and print legends add setup time and impact pricing on small runs.
How Volume & Options Affect Cost
Longer put-ups and larger volumes reduce unit cost. Small quantities often include setup charges and higher unit prices.
- Line changeovers and custom tooling increase lead time and add to cost.
- Clear RFQs and line scheduling let Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment align price quotes to delivery windows.
- Frameworks and indexed pricing stabilize budgets across phases.
| Factor | Effect on price | Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Optical grade | High impact | Balance spec vs. budget |
| Jacket type | Medium | Compare LSZH vs. PE for total cost |
| Length/Volume | Large | Consolidate where possible |
Lead times, MOQ, and delivery for the United States
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment keeps lead times/logistics clear so planners can align staffing and sites. Predictable windows cut downtime and help control cost when a rollout is underway.
Scheduling & Capacity Planning
Typical production windows are 4–5 days for < 100 km and 7–10 days for < 500 km. We schedule line capacity to match your rollout milestones and to keep deliveries on time.
The service team issues production updates and tracking so installation teams can plan arrivals. For tight schedules, we hold contingency capacity to pull in critical-path orders.
Minimum order quantity and why it matters
The MOQ is one kilometer. This reflects line setup such as wire and jacket die adjustments that consume start-up material and scrap.
We review your length and staging plans to choose reel sizes that cut waste and handling. Batch releases can balance inventory holding with more frequent small-site deliveries.
Installation readiness and application scenarios
On-site conditions determine whether a self-supporting aerial, ducted pull, or direct-buried run is the best fit for a project.
Deployment Considerations
For aerial runs, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment advises self-supporting designs with correct strength members to control sag and tension for long-term reliability.
Duct installations work best with low-friction sheaths and crush-resistant constructs so pulling avoids fiber damage. PE jackets are common for underground and buried paths where moisture resistance matters.
Direct-buried designs require proper depth control per local codes and moisture-resistant jackets to protect the optic core over time.
Indoor riser/plenum distribution and ONT termination
Indoor riser/plenum routes favor LSZH jackets to meet flame and smoke rules. Flat drop profiles strip cleanly and present controlled stubs for quick ONT termination.
We advise on steel vs FRP (dielectric) strength members based on bonding needs, lightning risk, and hardware compatibility. Standardized line prep reduces install time and reduces scrap.
| Scenario | Key feature | Installer note |
|---|---|---|
| Aerial | Self-supporting (steel/FRP) | Check tension and messenger hardware |
| Duct | Low-friction, crush-resistant | Use pull tape and proper lubricant |
| Direct-buried | PE jacket, moisture barrier | Follow local depth and warning tape rules |
| Interior | LSZH with tight-bend support | Maintain bend radius at wall penetrations |
Our approach delivers a consistent installation across indoor outdoor transitions. That reduces callbacks, faster activations, and stable field performance for your system.
Support from Spec to Service
Our team coordinates testing, scheduling, and installation guidance to remove surprises during deployment.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment provides engineering support from early requirements capture through approved drawings and pre-production builds. We deliver documentation templates and clear installation notes so field crews share a unified plan.
After-sales service covers rapid response, root-cause analysis, and corrective actions. All products ship with full reports and traceability to support QA acceptance.
- Round-the-clock availability for status and technical support.
- Warranty with free replacement if any quality problems are confirmed.
- Coordination of line schedules for expedites and urgent changes.
- Config control so shipped items match agreed requirements every time.
| Area | What we do | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Tech/Eng | Spec review & pre-production builds | Fewer field issues |
| QA/Testing | Lab + 100% reports | Full traceability |
| Service | Fast replace + RCA | Lower downtime |
Final Thoughts
Choose Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment for tailored drop builds, short lead times, and traceable quality records.
We deliver customized FTTH drop solutions that pair material choices with validated manufacturing and lab testing. 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 speeds turnaround. Our equipment set standardize strip/stub lengths so installers see consistent results at turn-up.
From fiber selection to jacket, printing, and packaging, we balance performance and cost to extend service life. Dedicated support guides scheduling, logistics, and after-sales care so your deployment stays on plan.
Contact Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment to align specs, timeline, and volume. We stand behind every fiber optic and optic cable shipment with lab validation and responsive service.