FTTH Drop Cable Production: Manufacturing Process Explained
Quick fact: more than seventy percent of new broadband deployments in the U.S. now rely on fiber networks that require precise manufacturing to hit performance targets.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment runs full-cycle Fiber cable sheathing line manufacturing, from choosing brand fibers like Fujikura® or Corning® SMF-28e to complete test reports that ensure 100% quality assurance.
Our FTTH drop designs are built for aerial, underground, and direct burial installation, with LSZH, PVC, and PE jacket options and core counts from 1 to 4 cores. We provide OS1/OS2 and multimode OM2–OM4 grades plus ITU-T G.652D and ITU-T G.657 variants, Pantone-matched sheath colors, and logo printing.
Automated machines and high-precision equipment stabilize line speed and repeatability high. Typical lead times are four to five days for orders under 100 km and seven to ten days under 500 km, with an min. order of 1 km and free-replacement warranty for quality problems.
Keep reading to understand 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 delivers full manufacturing with lab validation for U.S. deployments.
- Multiple jacket choices and optical grades support different install environments.
- Automated lines and machines deliver consistent quality and reliable optical performance.
- Fast lead times, low minimums, and brand fiber options help plan procurement reliably.
- Complete reports and warranty back product reliability and documentation needs.
FTTH Manufacturing Expertise by Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment
When deadlines and performance are critical, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment delivers tailored drop solutions with full test documentation.
As a specialized maker and supplier, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment pairs specialized equipment with tight material control. We offer customized service and products for residential and MDU rollouts. Every order comes with 100% quality assurance and full test reports.
Our lab conducts high-temperature, salt-fog, and vibration tests to validate durability. Jacket options cover LSZH, PVC, and PE. Designs offer bow-type flat and figure-8/self-supporting styles and support brand fibers such as Fujikura® and Corning SMF-28e.
- Documented line control and production checks for shipments with audit trails.
- Technical support for requirements, pilots, and scaling.
- Modern fixturing and calibration reduce variability 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 rigorous test routines.
Selecting Optical Fiber and Brands
We select fiber secondary coating line to bend radius, attenuation, and deployment type. 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 available to meet procurement standards.
Strength Member Options
Strength members use FRP (dielectric) or galvanized steel wire. FRP is ideal 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 outdoor UV and moisture resistance. Closed-loop control of temperature and capstan ratios stabilizes line speed and critical dimensions.
| Component | Dielectric FRP | Steel wire |
|---|---|---|
| Primary use | Electrical isolation | High-tension aerial runs |
| Advantage | Light, non-corrosive | Very high tensile strength |
| Installation note | Easier terminations | Bonding/grounding required |
Inline and final testing
Inline geometry and concentricity checks run during manufacturing. Final optical tests verify attenuation and return loss. Each order includes a full test report and lab results from high heat, salt fog, and vibration trials to confirm handling for drop terminations and field use.
Typical lead times are 4–5 days for < 100 km and under 500 km in 7–10 days. Material lot records and first-article approvals support traceability and compliance for U.S. programs.
FTTH drop cable types and structures we manufacture
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment provides a focused portfolio of drop designs that fit indoor risers and long aerial runs. Each option pairs tested materials with geometry tuned for field termination and stable optical performance.
The bow-type flat drop cable minimizes footprint for risers and conduit. It reduces bend loss for simple routing in MDU corridors and hallways.
Self-supporting designs for aerial spans
Self-supporting FTTH drop designs use a support messenger to handle tension. Choose FRP (dielectric) for electrical isolation or steel wire when bonding and extra tensile strength are required.
Layouts & Strength Members
We offer dielectric and metallic strength member configurations to meet safety/EMI requirements. Center loose tube and unitube flat types balance crush resistance and fiber ribbone line for quick termination.
Jackets for Indoor/Outdoor
Jacket choices include LSZH for flame-retardant, low-smoke indoor use and PE for outdoor UV and moisture resilience. Each series is qualified for mechanical and optical quality before shipment.
| Type | Best use | Strength element | Sheath |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bow-type flat | Indoor risers and MDUs | Dielectric FRP | LSZH |
| Self-supporting | Overhead spans | FRP/Steel | PE |
| Central loose-tube | Higher-count builds | Dielectric FRP | LSZH or PE |
| Unitube flat | Low-count, easy strip | FRP or steel | LSZH or PE |
Production Assets for Speed and Quality
Automation with sensor feedback at Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment reduce manual handling and increase throughput for drop patch preparation.
Our production line uses automated machines that cut/strip drop cords to increase output 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.
Auto Cut & Strip Capabilities
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 + photoelectric sensors give exact positioning and feedback control. Inline checks feed control charts so operators can adjust drifts before out-of-control conditions occur.
| Feature | Capability | Result |
|---|---|---|
| CLX-BPO2 | 1.5s cycle, auto-strip | ~20 terminals/minute throughput |
| Drive | Cylinder-based | High speed and reliability |
| Material handling | LSZH & PVC; FRP & steel | Accurate stubs, clean terminations |
| Process control | PLC/photoelectric with in-line SPC | Stable quality, reduced rework |
- Auto scrap ejection and ergonomic feeders maintain clean workcells.
- Process control plans 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 maintaining consistent prep.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment uses the CLX-BPO2 to raise output and standardize prep quality. The unit cycles in ~1.5 seconds, yielding about 20 terminal preparations per minute in production.
PLC and photoelectric control enable precise detection and repeatable actuation. That control keeps strip and stub lengths within tight tolerances.
Cycle time and throughput
Typical operation speed is 1.5s per cycle. This converts 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.
Cutting FRP/Steel Members
The machine cleanly cuts FRP and steel wire strength elements while protecting neighboring fibers. Custom tooling are available for nonstandard sizes to preserve precision.
- Automatic waste ejection and sensor start reduce idle time.
- Compact size (L40 × W18 × H18 cm), 110–220V, 50W, and 11 kg weight ease integration into workcells.
- Cylinder-driven motion and closed-loop control boost reliability and lower maintenance interruptions.
| Specification | Value | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle | ~1.5 s (~20/min) | High throughput for production runs |
| Jacket strip (A) | 17.5 to 35.0 mm | Fits common connector processes |
| Reserved stub (B) | 7.0–11.0 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 supports our lines in meeting volume targets without sacrificing quality.
Tailored Specifications for Your Network
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment configures every order to fit 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 along with G.652D and G.657 variants to match your optics and connector plans.
We match sheath colors to Pantone codes for quick field identification and consistent asset tagging.
Branding and Print Options
Select LSZH/PVC/PE jackets based on route and safety rules. Custom print legends and logos aid inventory/warranty tracking.
Lengths, Packaging & Special Builds
Standard put-ups are 1 km, 2 km, and 4 km with tailored reels and packaging to suit storage and handling. Choose bow-type flat or self-supporting designs and FRP or steel members to fit span and isolation requirements.
| Choice | Typical | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 1 / 2 / 4 km | Simpler staging and reels |
| Jacket | LSZH, PE, PVC | Indoor/Outdoor fit |
| Structure | Flat bow / Self-supporting | Flexible routing/span |
As a supplier, Shanghai Weiye aligns runs to your schedule and delivers documentation that detail final specs for straightforward QA on site.
Quality, Test, and Docs
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment builds checkpoints into production so every item ships with recorded acceptance data.
Lab Testing: Heat, Salt Spray & Vibration
Our lab runs elevated-temperature exposure, salt spray corrosion, and vibration tests to qualify materials and assemblies. These tests simulate field stresses for indoor/outdoor applications.
100% test reports for every cable
Every fiber optic cable includes a 100% test report that logs attenuation, return loss, and geometry where applicable. Final QC gates prevent nonconforming shipments before they leave the factory.
Traceability and compliance
Lot/batch records tie test data to reels and serials so audits and claims are easy to verify. Documentation uses standard customer templates to accelerate approvals and receiving inspection.
- Line checks and final inspection prevent field failures and cut 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 | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| High-temperature | Material stability | Pass at target temperature |
| Salt-fog | Corrosion robustness | Outdoor suitability |
| Mechanical vibration | Resistance to vibration | Reduced field failures |
Pricing and cost drivers for FTTH drop cable
Budget planning for a drop begins with fiber/jacket selection and is refined 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 structural design.
Primary Cost Inputs
The primary cost drivers are fiber grade, sheath material, and the structural type chosen for deployment.
Self-supporting designs and steel strength elements raise material and labor input. Custom sheath colors/logos/legends add setup and influence price for short runs.
How Volume & Options Affect Cost
Longer put-ups and larger volumes lower unit cost. Short runs often include setup charges and higher unit prices.
- Line changeovers and custom tooling 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.
| Factor | Price impact | Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Optical grade | High impact | Right-size spec to budget |
| Sheath material | Medium impact | Evaluate LSZH vs PE |
| Length/Volume | Large | Consolidate runs to cut unit cost |
Lead times, MOQ, and delivery for the United States
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment keeps lead times/logistics clear so planners can align crews and sites. Predictable schedules cut downtime and control costs 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 plan capacity to track your milestones and to keep deliveries on time.
The service team provides updates/tracking so installation teams can plan arrivals. For tight schedules, we hold contingency capacity to pull in critical-path orders.
Why MOQ Matters
The MOQ is 1 km. This reflects setup needs 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 with more frequent small-site deliveries.
Where and How to Deploy
On-site conditions determine whether a self-supporting aerial, ducted pull, or direct burial is the right choice for a project.
Aerial, duct, and direct-buried 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 typical for underground and buried paths where moisture resistance is needed.
Direct-buried designs require proper depth control per local codes and moisture barriers to protect the fiber core long-term.
Indoor Riser/Plenum & ONT
Indoor riser/plenum routes prefer LSZH to meet smoke/flame codes. Flat drop profiles strip cleanly and present controlled strength stubs for quick ONT termination.
We guide the choice of steel or FRP (dielectric) strength members based on bonding needs, lightning risk, and hardware compatibility. Standardized line prep shortens install time and minimizes scrap.
| Scenario | Key design | Installer note |
|---|---|---|
| Overhead | Self-supporting (steel/FRP) | Check tension and messenger hardware |
| Underground duct | Low-friction jacket, crush resistance | Use pull tape + lubricant |
| Direct burial | PE with moisture barrier | Follow local depth and warning tape rules |
| Indoor | LSZH with tight-bend support | Maintain bend radius at penetrations |
Our approach ensures a consistent install experience across indoor/outdoor transitions. That leads to fewer callbacks, faster activations, and reliable field performance for your system.
Support from Spec to Service
Our team coordinates tests, line schedules, and installation guidance to remove surprises during deployment.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment offers engineering support from early requirements through approved drawings and pre-production builds. We deliver documentation templates and clear install notes so field crews work from the same plan.
After-sales service includes fast response, RCA, and corrective action. All products ship with full reports and traceability to help QA acceptance.
- Round-the-clock availability for status and technical support.
- Warranty includes free replacement for confirmed quality issues.
- Schedule coordination for urgent changes or acceleration requests.
- Configuration control so shipped items match agreed requirements every time.
| Support area | What we do | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering | Specs + pilots | Fewer field issues |
| Testing | Lab + 100% reports | Full traceability |
| Service | Fast replace + RCA | Minimized downtime |
Final Thoughts
Select Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment for custom drops, quick lead times, and full traceability.
We provide custom FTTH drops that pair material choices with validated manufacturing and lab testing. Every reel ships with a 100% test report and documented 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 get consistent results at turn-up.
From fiber selection through jacket, printing, and packaging, we balance design and cost to maximize service life. Dedicated support guides scheduling, logistics, and after-sales care so your deployment stays on plan.
Get in touch with Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment to align specs, timeline, and volume. We stand behind every shipment with laboratory validation and responsive service.