FTTH Drop Cable Production: How the Manufacturing Process Works
Surprising fact: in excess of seventy percent of new broadband deployments in the U.S. now rely on fiber networks that need high-precision manufacturing to meet performance goals.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment manages complete FTTH cable production line manufacturing, from selecting brand fibers like Fujikura® or Corning® SMF-28e to final test reports that deliver 100% QA.
Our drop cable designs fit overhead, ducted, and direct burial installation, with LSZH, PVC, and polyethylene (PE) jacket options and core counts from 1–4 cores. We supply single-mode OS1/OS2 and OM2–OM4 grades plus ITU-T G.652D and G.657 variants, Pantone sheath colors, and logo printing.
Automation and precision equipment stabilize line speed and maximize repeatability. Typical lead times run 4–5 days for orders under 100 km and seven to ten days for < 500 km, with an MOQ of 1 km and warranty covering free replacement for confirmed quality issues.
Continue to understand how materials plus testing and support help reduce lifecycle cost and align the product to your network needs.
- Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment provides end-to-end manufacturing and lab testing for U.S. deployments.
- A range of jacket options and fiber grades fit different install environments.
- Automated production lines provide consistent quality and reliable optical performance.
- Quick lead times, low minimums, and brand fiber options keep procurement predictable.
- Comprehensive test reports and after-sales warranty back product reliability and compliance 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 complete test documentation.
As a dedicated manufacturer, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment combines purpose-built equipment with stringent material control. We offer custom builds and services for residential and MDU rollouts. Every order comes with full QA coverage and full test reports.
Our lab runs high heat, salt-fog, and vibration tests to validate durability. Jacket options include LSZH, PVC, and PE. Designs cover bow-type flat and 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.
- Engineering support for requirements, pilots, and scaling.
- Modern fixturing and calibration minimize variation so every cable matches operator specs.
How We Produce FTTH Cable
At Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment, manufacturing steps are aligned to network specifications, combining brand fiber choices with rigorous test routines.
Selecting Optical Fiber and Brands
We align Fiber coloring machine to bend radius, loss, 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 offered to meet procurement 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 longer aerial spans and grounding needs.
Extrusion & Process Control
Jacket options include LSZH for indoor flame safety, PVC for flexibility, and PE for outdoor UV and moisture resistance. Tight process control of temperature and capstan ratios stabilizes line speed and dimensional tolerances.
| Component | FRP | Metallic Steel |
|---|---|---|
| Primary use | Electrical isolation | High-tension aerial runs |
| Key benefit | Lightweight, inert | Very high tensile strength |
| Installation note | Easier terminations | Bonding/grounding required |
In-Process and Final Testing
Inline geometry/concentricity checks operate in-line. Final optical tests verify loss and reflectance. Each order includes a 100% test report and lab results from high-temperature, salt fog, 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 FAI approvals support traceability and compliance for U.S. projects.
Our FTTH Drop Cable Types and Structures
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment offers a focused portfolio of FTTH drop designs that suit both tight indoor routes and exposed aerial spans. Each option pairs tested materials with geometry tuned for field termination and stable optical performance.
The bow-type flat drop cable keeps a small footprint for risers and conduit. It keeps bend loss low for easy routing in MDU corridors and hallways.
Self-Supporting Aerial Designs
Self-supporting FTTH drop designs use a support messenger to carry tensile loads. Choose FRP (dielectric) for non-conductive runs or steel messenger when bonding and extra tensile strength are required.
Layouts & Strength Members
We provide dielectric and metallic strength member configurations to match safety and EMI rules. Central loose-tube and unitube flat 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 durability. Each family is validated for mechanical/optical performance before shipment.
| Design | Application | Strength member | Sheath |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flat bow-type | Indoor risers, MDUs | FRP (dielectric) | LSZH |
| Self-supporting | Aerial spans | FRP/Steel | PE |
| Center loose tube | Higher fiber counts | FRP | LSZH or PE |
| Flat unitube | Low count, quick strip | FRP/Steel | LSZH/PE |
Production line equipment that ensures quality and speed
Automation and sensor-driven feedback at Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment cut manual handling and boost throughput for patch cord prep.
Our production line integrates automated machines that cut and strip drop patch cords to raise throughput and cut labor 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.
Automated Cut/Strip for Drop Cords
The equipment strips LSZH and PVC jackets and trims FRP/steel members to precise reserved lengths. Pneumatic cylinder actuators deliver fast, repeatable motion and low downtime.
Closed-Loop Control for Repeatability
PLC logic + photoelectric sensors deliver precise positioning and feedback control. Inline checks feed control charts so operators can correct trends before out-of-control conditions occur.
| Item | Capability | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Machine | 1.5s cycle, auto-strip | High throughput |
| Actuation | Pneumatic cylinders | High speed and reliability |
| Materials | 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 keep the line clean.
- Process control plans document calibration and key parameters.
- Combined machines, fixtures, and trained staff support FTTH volume targets without compromising accuracy.
CLX-BPO2 auto-stripping machine capabilities in our line
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 increase throughput 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 and photoelectric control deliver exact detection and repeatable motion. That control keeps strip and stub lengths within tight tolerances.
Cycle time and throughput
Typical operation speed is ~1.5 seconds per cycle. This converts to steady throughput under normal production conditions.
Jacket Strip & Stub Lengths
The CLX-BPO2 handles LSZH/PVC with an adjustable strip length from 17.5 to 35.0 mm. Reserved strength member stubs are adjustable from 7.0–11.0 mm to match common termination hardware.
Handling FRP and steel wire strength members
The machine cuts FRP/steel strength elements cleanly while protecting adjacent fibers. Custom tooling are available for non-standard cross-sections to preserve precision.
- Auto-eject scrap and sensor start cut idle time.
- Compact size (L40 × W18 × H18 cm), 50W at 110–220V, and 11 kg weight ease integration into workcells.
- Pneumatic cylinders and PLC/photoelectric control improve line reliability and lower maintenance interruptions.
| Specification | Value | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle | ≈1.5 s (~20/min) | Supports high-volume runs |
| Strip lengths (A) | 17.5 to 35.0 mm | Fits common connector processes |
| Stub (B) | 7.0–11.0 mm | Supports termination strength |
| Power & size | 110–220V, 50W; 40×18×18 cm | Simple integration |
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 compromising quality.
Custom Specs for Your FTTH System
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment configures every order to meet 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, and OM2–OM4 plus 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.
Jackets, Legends & Branding
Select LSZH/PVC/PE jackets to suit route and safety requirements. Custom legends/logos support inventory and warranty tracking.
Length options, packaging, and special structures
Standard reel lengths are 1 km, 2 km, and 4 km with custom reels and packaging to fit storage/handling. Choose flat bow-type or self-supporting and FRP or steel members to meet span and isolation needs.
| Choice | Typical | Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Reel length | 1, 2, or 4 km | Simpler staging and reels |
| Sheath | LSZH / PE / PVC | Indoor/outdoor compatibility |
| Design | Bow-type / Self-supporting | Flexible routing/span |
As a supplier, Shanghai Weiye schedules runs to your plan and delivers documentation that lists final specifications for easy on-site QA.
Quality, Test, and Docs
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment embeds quality checkpoints across the production line so every item has recorded acceptance data at ship.
Lab Testing: Heat, Salt Spray & Vibration
Our lab runs elevated-temperature exposure, salt spray corrosion, and mechanical vibration to qualify materials and assemblies. These tests recreate field stresses for indoor/outdoor applications.
Full Test Reports for Every Reel
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
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 reduce field failures and cut warranty events.
- Quality packages include specifications confirmation and formatted data for quick review.
- Ongoing trend analysis inform preventive maintenance and improve long-term reliability.
| Test | Purpose | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Heat exposure | Thermal stability | Validated heat endurance |
| Salt-fog | Corrosion resistance | Qualified for outdoor use |
| 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 shaped by volume and customization.
Typical prices range broadly—from about $30–$1,000 per unit—based on fiber grade, jacket chemistry (LSZH, PVC, PE), reel length, and design structure.
Materials, Grade, Jacket & Structure
The primary cost drivers are fiber optic grade, jacket material, and the chosen structure for deployment.
Self-supporting structures and steel members raise material and labor input. Custom colors, logos, and print legends add setup time and influence price for short runs.
Order length, volume, and customization impact on price
Longer put-ups and larger volumes reduce unit cost. Small quantities often include setup charges and higher unit prices.
- Changeovers and special cutters increase lead time and add to cost.
- Clear RFQs with schedule alignment let Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment align price quotes to delivery windows.
- Frameworks and indexed pricing stabilize budgets across phases.
| Driver | Price impact | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber grade | Large | Balance spec vs. budget |
| Jacket type | Medium | Evaluate LSZH vs PE |
| Length/Volume | High impact | Consolidate runs to cut unit cost |
Logistics for the U.S.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment makes lead times and logistics clear so planners can align staffing and sites. Predictable windows reduce downtime and control costs 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 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 tight schedules, we hold contingency capacity to accelerate critical-path orders.
Minimum order quantity and why it matters
The MOQ is one kilometer. This reflects setup needs such as wire/die adjustments that use startup material and generate 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.
Where and How to Deploy
Site conditions determine whether a self-supporting aerial, duct pull, or direct burial is the best fit for a project.
Aerial vs Duct vs Direct-Buried
For aerial runs, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment advises self-supporting designs with correct strength 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 typical for underground and buried paths where moisture resistance matters.
Direct-buried designs need correct burial depth 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 prefer LSZH to meet smoke/flame codes. Flat drop cable forms 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 exposure, and hardware compatibility. Standardized line prep shortens install time and reduces scrap.
| Deployment | Key design | Installer note |
|---|---|---|
| Aerial | Self-supporting, steel or FRP | Check tension and messenger hardware |
| Duct | Low-friction, crush-resistant | Use pull tape + lubricant |
| Direct-buried | PE with moisture barrier | Follow local depth and warning tape rules |
| Interior | LSZH with tight-bend support | Maintain bend radius at penetrations |
Our approach delivers a consistent installation across indoor/outdoor transitions. That reduces callbacks, speeds 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 offers engineering support from early requirements through approved drawings and pilot 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 test reports and traceability to help QA acceptance.
- Round-the-clock availability for status and technical support.
- Warranty with free replacement if any quality problems are confirmed.
- Schedule coordination for urgent changes or acceleration requests.
- Configuration control so shipped items match agreed specs consistently.
| Area | Scope | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering | Specs + pilots | Fewer field issues |
| Testing | Lab + 100% reports | Traceable quality |
| After-sales | Rapid replacement & root-cause | Minimized downtime |
Conclusion
Select Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment for custom drops, quick lead times, and full traceability.
We provide custom FTTH drops that combine materials with validated manufacturing and lab tests. Every reel ships with a 100% test report and documented trials to support field acceptance in the United States.
A robust production line, including CLX-BPO2-enabled prep machines, cuts 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 design and cost to extend service life. Dedicated support covers scheduling/logistics/after-sales so your deployment stays on plan.
Contact Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment to align specifications, timeline, and volume. We stand behind every fiber optic and optic cable shipment with lab validation and responsive support.