FTTH Drop Cable Production: Manufacturing Process Explained
Quick fact: over 70% of new U.S. broadband builds now depend on fiber networks that demand precise manufacturing to meet performance goals.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment runs complete Fiber cable sheathing line manufacturing, from selecting brand fibers like Fujikura or Corning SMF-28e to comprehensive test documentation that guarantee full quality assurance.
Our FTTH drop designs are built for overhead, ducted, and direct-buried installation, with 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 logo printing.
Automated machines and precision equipment stabilize line speed and keep repeatability high. Typical lead times are 4–5 days for orders < 100 km and seven to ten days under 500 km, with an MOQ of 1 km and free-replacement warranty for quality problems.
Keep reading to understand how materials plus testing and support work together to reduce lifecycle cost and align the product to your network needs.
- Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment offers complete production and laboratory testing for U.S. deployments.
- A range of jacket options and fiber grades fit indoor/outdoor environments.
- Automated lines and machines provide consistent quality and reliable optical performance.
- Quick lead times, low MOQ, and brand fiber options help plan procurement reliably.
- Complete reports and after-sales warranty support product reliability and compliance documentation needs.
Specialized FTTH Manufacturing by Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment
When deadlines and performance are critical, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment delivers tailored drop solutions with complete test documentation.
As a focused supplier and manufacturer, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment combines specialized equipment with tight material control. We provide customized service and products for single-family and MDU rollouts. Every order comes with 100% quality assurance and complete test reports.
Our lab conducts high-temperature, salt-fog, and vibration tests to validate durability. Jacket options include LSZH, PVC, and PE. Designs offer flat bow-type and figure-8/self-supporting styles and support brand fibers such as Fujikura® and Corning® SMF-28e.
- Controlled production lines and production checks for auditable shipments.
- Technical support for specification reviews, trials, and volume ramp.
- Modern fixtures and calibration reduce variability so every cable matches operator specs.
How We Produce FTTH Cable
At Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment, manufacturing steps are built around network requirements, combining brand fiber choices with disciplined test flows.
Selecting Optical Fiber and Brands
We select fiber secondary coating line to bend radius, attenuation, and install environment. Options include OS1, OS2, OM2–OM4 and ITU-T G.652D, G.657.A1/A2. Brand fibers such as Fujikura and Corning SMF-28e are offered to satisfy sourcing standards.
Strength member integration
Strength members employ FRP (dielectric) or galvanized steel wire. FRP is preferred where non-conductive runs are required. Steel wire provides tensile strength for long-span aerial runs and bonding/grounding needs.
Extrusion & Process Control
Jacket options include LSZH for indoor flame safety, PVC for flexibility, and PE for UV/moisture resistance outdoors. Tight process control of temperature and capstan ratios keeps line speed stable and dimensional tolerances.
| Component | FRP | Steel wire |
|---|---|---|
| Use case | Electrical isolation | High-tension aerial runs |
| Key benefit | Light, non-corrosive | High strength |
| Installation note | Easier terminations | Requires grounding |
In-Process and Final Testing
Inline geometry/concentricity checks operate in-line. Final optical tests confirm attenuation and reflectance. Each order includes a full test report and lab results from high-temperature, salt fog, and vibration tests to confirm handling for drop terminations and field use.
Typical lead times are 4–5 days for < 100 km and 7–10 days for < 500 km. Material lot records and FAI approvals provide traceability and compliance for U.S. projects.
Our FTTH Drop Cable Types and Structures
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment offers a focused portfolio of drop designs that suit both 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 reduces bend loss for easy routing in hallways and MDUs.
Aerial Self-Supporting Options
Self-supporting FTTH drop designs use a support messenger to handle tension. Choose FRP (dielectric) for electrical isolation or steel messenger when bonding and higher tensile strength are required.
Core Layouts and Strength Members
We offer dielectric and metallic strength member configurations to meet safety/EMI requirements. Central loose-tube and flat unitube types balance crush resistance and compact fiber unit for quick termination.
Jackets for Indoor/Outdoor
Jacket choices include LSZH for indoor flame/smoke compliance and PE for outdoor durability. Each family is validated for mechanical/optical performance before shipment.
| Type | Best use | Strength element | Sheath |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bow-type flat | Indoor risers, MDUs | Dielectric FRP | Low-smoke zero-halogen |
| Self-supporting (aerial) | Aerial spans | FRP/Steel | Polyethylene |
| Center loose tube | Higher-count builds | FRP | LSZH/PE |
| Unitube flat | Low count, quick strip | FRP/Steel | LSZH or PE |
Production Assets for Speed and Quality
Automation and sensor-driven feedback at Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment cut manual handling and increase throughput for patch cord prep.
Our production line uses automated machines that cut and strip drop patch 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 ~20 terminals per minute in production.
Auto Cut & Strip Capabilities
The equipment strips LSZH and PVC jackets and trims FRP/steel members to precise stub lengths. Pneumatic cylinder actuators deliver fast, repeatable motion and low downtime.
PLC/photoelectric control for precision and repeatability
PLC logic + photoelectric sensors give exact positioning and feedback control. Inline checks feed control charts so operators can adjust drifts before out-of-control conditions occur.
| Item | Capability | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Machine | Auto-strip, ~1.5 s cycle | High throughput |
| Actuation | Cylinder-based | Fast/reliable motion |
| Materials | LSZH/PVC; FRP/steel | Clean, accurate preps |
| Process control | PLC + photoelectric + inline checks | Stable quality, reduced rework |
- Auto scrap ejection and ergonomic loading keep the line clean.
- PCPs document calibration and key parameters.
- Combined machines, fixtures, and trained staff support FTTH volume targets without sacrificing accuracy.
CLX-BPO2 auto-stripping machine capabilities in our line
The CLX-BPO2 brings industrial-grade stripping and trimming to our line, cutting cycle time while keeping prep consistent.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment deploys the CLX-BPO2 to increase throughput 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/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 converts to steady throughput under normal production conditions.
Supported Strip and Stub Lengths
The CLX-BPO2 strips LSZH and PVC jackets with an adjustable jacket strip length from 17.5 to 35.0 mm. Reserved strength member stubs are adjustable from 7.0–11.0 mm to fit common termination hardware.
Cutting FRP/Steel Members
The machine cuts FRP/steel strength elements cleanly while protecting neighboring fibers. Customized cutters are available for nonstandard sizes to preserve precision.
- Auto-eject scrap and sensor start reduce idle time.
- Compact size (L40 × W18 × H18 cm), 110–220V, 50W, and 11 kg weight ease integration into workcells.
- Pneumatic cylinders and closed-loop control boost reliability and reduce maintenance downtime.
| Spec | Rating | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle | ~1.5 s (~20/min) | Supports high-volume runs |
| Strip lengths (A) | 17.5–35.0 mm | Fits common connector processes |
| Reserved stub (B) | 7.0 to 11.0 mm | Supports termination strength |
| Power & size | 110–220V, 50W; 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 compromising quality.
Tailored Specifications for Your Network
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment configures every order to fit your network requirements and simplify deployment. We pair concise options with predictable manufacturing windows 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 plus G.652D and G.657 variants to align with optics and connector plans.
We Pantone-match sheath colors for fast field ID and consistent asset tagging.
Jacket materials, print legends, and branding
Select LSZH/PVC/PE jackets based on route and safety rules. Custom print legends and logos aid inventory/warranty tracking.
Put-Ups, Packaging, and Structures
Standard put-ups 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 meet span and isolation needs.
| Option | Typical | Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Reel length | 1, 2, or 4 km | Simpler staging and reels |
| Jacket | LSZH / PE / PVC | Indoor/outdoor compatibility |
| Structure | Flat bow / Self-supporting | Routing and span flexibility |
As a supplier, Shanghai Weiye schedules runs to your plan and delivers documentation that detail final specs for straightforward QA on site.
QA, Testing & Documentation
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment builds checkpoints into production so every item ships with recorded acceptance data.
High-temperature, salt spray, and vibration laboratory testing
Our lab runs elevated-temperature exposure, salt spray corrosion, and vibration tests to qualify materials/assemblies. These tests recreate field stresses for indoor and outdoor use.
Full Test Reports for Every Reel
Every fiber optic cable includes a 100% test report that records loss, return loss, and key geometry where applicable. Final inspection gates stop nonconforming items before they leave the factory.
Audit Trail and Compliance
Lot/batch records link tests to reels/serials so audits and warranty claims are simple to verify. Documentation uses standard customer templates to speed approvals and inbound inspection.
- Line checks and final inspection prevent field failures and cut warranty events.
- QA packages include spec confirmation and formatted test data for rapid review.
- Ongoing trend analysis drive preventive maintenance and raise long-term reliability.
| Trial | Purpose | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Heat exposure | Thermal stability | Pass at target temperature |
| Salt spray | Corrosion robustness | Qualified for outdoor use |
| Vibration | Mechanical robustness | Improved field reliability |
Pricing and cost drivers for FTTH drop cable
Budget planning for a drop begins with fiber/jacket selection and is shaped by volume and customization.
Typical prices vary widely—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 design structure.
Materials, Grade, Jacket & Structure
The primary cost drivers are fiber grade, jacket material, and the structural type chosen for deployment.
Self-supporting structures and steel members increase material/labor. Custom colors, logos, and print legends add setup time and impact pricing on small runs.
Order length, volume, and customization impact on price
Longer reels and higher volume orders lower unit cost. Small quantities often carry setup fees and higher per-unit charges.
- Changeovers and special cutters increase lead time and add to cost.
- Clear RFQs with schedule alignment let Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment match quotes to delivery windows.
- Framework agreements and indexed pricing stabilize budgets over phases.
| Driver | Price impact | Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber grade | Large | Right-size spec to budget |
| Sheath material | Medium impact | Compare LSZH vs. PE for total cost |
| Order length / volume | Large | Consolidate where possible |
U.S. Lead Times, MOQ & Delivery
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment keeps lead times/logistics clear so planners can align crews and sites. Predictable schedules cut downtime and help control cost when a rollout is underway.
Scheduling & Capacity Planning
Typical production windows run 4–5 days for orders under 100 km and 7–10 days for < 500 km. We schedule line capacity to track your milestones and to keep deliveries on time.
The service team issues production updates and tracking so installation teams know when reels arrive. For compressed schedules, we reserve contingency capacity to accelerate critical-path orders.
Minimum order quantity and why it matters
The MOQ is 1 km. This reflects line setup such as wire and jacket die adjustments that consume start-up material and scrap.
We review your put-ups and staging to select reels to reduce waste/handling. Batch releases can balance inventory holding with more frequent small-site deliveries.
Installation readiness and application scenarios
Site conditions determine whether a self-supporting aerial, ducted pull, or direct-buried run is the best fit for a project.
Aerial vs Duct vs Direct-Buried
For aerial runs, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment recommends self-supporting designs with correct strength members to manage sag/tension for long-term stability.
Duct installations work best with low-friction jackets and crush-resistant builds so pulling does not damage fibers. PE jackets are common for underground and buried paths where moisture resistance matters.
Direct-buried designs need correct burial depth per local codes and moisture barriers to protect the fiber core long-term.
Indoor riser/plenum distribution and ONT termination
Indoor riser and plenum routes favor LSZH jackets to meet smoke/flame codes. Flat drop profiles strip cleanly and present controlled strength stubs for fast ONT terminations.
We advise on steel vs FRP (dielectric) strength members based on bonding requirements, lightning exposure, and hardware fit. Standardized prep from the production line shortens install time and reduces scrap.
| Deployment | Key design | Installer note |
|---|---|---|
| Overhead | Self-supporting, steel or FRP | Verify messenger hardware/tension |
| Underground duct | Low-friction jacket, crush resistance | Use pull tape + lubricant |
| Direct-buried | PE jacket, moisture barrier | Follow local depth and warning tape rules |
| Indoor | LSZH jacket, 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 avoid surprises in 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 help QA acceptance.
- Round-the-clock availability for status updates and technical guidance.
- 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 specs consistently.
| Area | Scope | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Tech/Eng | Specs + pilots | Reduced field issues |
| Testing | Lab trials & 100% test reports | Full traceability |
| After-sales | Rapid replacement & root-cause | Minimized downtime |
Wrap-Up
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 prep assets, reduces variability and speeds turnaround. Our equipment set standardize strip and 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 customer support guides scheduling, logistics, and after-sales care 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 laboratory validation and responsive support.