FTTH Drop Cable Production: How the Manufacturing Process Works
Did you know: more than 70% of new broadband deployments in the U.S. now depend on fiber networks that require precise manufacturing to hit performance targets.
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment handles complete SZ stranding line manufacturing, from selecting brand fibers like Fujikura or Corning® SMF-28e to comprehensive test documentation that deliver 100% QA.
Our drop designs are built for overhead, ducted, and direct-buried installation, with low-smoke zero-halogen (LSZH), PVC, and PE jacket options and configurations from 1–4 cores. We supply single-mode OS1/OS2 and multimode OM2–OM4 grades plus G.652D and G.657 variants, Pantone-matched sheath colors, and custom logo printing.
Automation and high-precision equipment keep line speed steady and keep repeatability high. Typical lead times are 4–5 days for orders under 100 km and 7–10 days under 500 km, with an min. order of 1 km and warranty for free replacement on quality issues.
Keep reading to see how materials plus testing and support combine to lower lifecycle cost and pair the right product with your network.
- Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment provides complete production and laboratory testing for U.S. deployments.
- Multiple jacket choices and fiber grades cover different install environments.
- Automated production lines provide consistent quality and reliable optical performance.
- Fast lead times, low MOQ, and recognized brand fibers support reliable procurement planning.
- Complete reports and warranty support product reliability and compliance documentation needs.
FTTH Manufacturing Expertise by Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment
When project timelines and performance matter, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment delivers customized drop cables with full test documentation.
As a specialized maker and supplier, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment pairs specialized equipment with tight material control. We provide customized service and products for residential/MDU deployments. Every order includes 100% quality assurance and complete test reports.
Our lab runs high-temperature, salt spray, and vibration testing to verify durability. Jacket options cover LSZH, PVC, and PE. Designs include 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 auditable shipments.
- Engineering support for specification reviews, trials, and volume ramp.
- Modern fixtures and calibration reduce variability so every cable meets carrier standards.
How We Produce FTTH Cable
At Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment, manufacturing steps are matched to network specs, pairing brand fiber choices with disciplined test flows.
Optical fiber selection and brand options
We select fiber ribbon line to minimum bend radius, attenuation, 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 meet procurement standards.
Strength member integration
Strength members use dielectric FRP or metallic steel wire. FRP is preferred where non-conductive runs are required. Steel wire adds tensile strength for long-span aerial runs and bonding/grounding needs.
Jacket Options and Control
Jacket options include LSZH for flame/smoke safety, PVC for flexibility and ease of handling, and PE for UV/moisture resistance outdoors. Closed-loop control of extruder temperature and capstan speed keeps line speed stable and critical dimensions.
| Member | Dielectric FRP | Steel wire |
|---|---|---|
| Primary use | Non-conductive runs | Aerial spans, high tensile |
| Key benefit | Lightweight, inert | Very high tensile 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 return loss. Each order ships with a full test report and lab results from high-temperature, salt-spray, and vibration tests to qualify field handling and drop terminations.
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. programs.
Our FTTH Drop Cable Types and Structures
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment provides a compact portfolio of drop designs that fit indoor risers and long aerial runs. Each option combines tested materials with field-termination geometry and stable optical performance.
The bow-type flat drop cable minimizes footprint for risers and conduit. It reduces bend loss for simple routing in hallways and MDUs.
Aerial Self-Supporting Options
Self-supporting FTTH drop designs include a support messenger to handle tension. Choose FRP (dielectric) for non-conductive runs or steel messenger when bonding and higher tensile strength are required.
Strength member and core layouts
We offer both dielectric and metallic strength member configurations to match safety and EMI rules. Center loose tube and unitube flat types balance crush resistance and fiber secondary coating line for fast terminations.
Indoor/outdoor jackets
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/optical performance before shipment.
| Type | Application | Strength member | Sheath |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flat bow-type | Indoor risers and MDUs | Dielectric FRP | Low-smoke zero-halogen |
| Self-supporting | Aerial spans | Steel wire or FRP | PE |
| Center loose tube | Higher-count builds | FRP | LSZH/PE |
| Flat unitube | Low-count, easy strip | FRP/Steel | LSZH or PE |
Equipment Ensuring Quality and Throughput
Automation with sensor feedback at Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment reduce manual handling and increase throughput for drop patch preparation.
Our production line integrates 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 ~20 terminals per minute in production.
Automated cutting and stripping for drop cable patch cords
The equipment strips LSZH and PVC jackets and trims FRP or steel strength members to precise stub lengths. Cylinder-driven actuators provide quick, repeatable motion and low downtime.
PLC/photoelectric control for precision and repeatability
PLC logic and photoelectric sensors give exact positioning and feedback control. Inline checks feed control charts so operators can correct trends before defects grow.
| Feature | Spec | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| CLX-BPO2 | Auto-strip, ~1.5 s cycle | High throughput |
| Actuation | Cylinder-based | Fast/reliable motion |
| Material handling | LSZH/PVC; FRP/steel | Accurate stubs, clean terminations |
| Control | PLC + photoelectric + inline checks | 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 help meet FTTH volume goals without sacrificing accuracy.
CLX-BPO2 Capabilities on Our Line
The CLX-BPO2 provides industrial-grade strip/trim to our line, cutting cycle time while keeping prep consistent.
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/photoelectric control deliver exact detection and repeatable actuation. That control helps keep strip lengths and reserved strength stubs within tight tolerances.
Throughput & Cycle Time
Typical operation speed is ~1.5 seconds per cycle. This translates to steady throughput under continuous line conditions.
Supported jacket and reserved strength lengths
The CLX-BPO2 strips LSZH and PVC jackets with an adjustable 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 cleanly cuts FRP and steel wire strength elements while protecting adjacent fibers. Customized cutters are offered for non-standard cross-sections to maintain precision.
- Automatic waste ejection and sensor start cut idle time.
- Small footprint (L40 × W18 × H18 cm), 110–220V, 50W, and 11 kg weight simplify cell integration.
- Cylinder-driven motion and PLC/photoelectric control boost reliability and lower maintenance interruptions.
| Spec | Rating | 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 | Meets strength and termination needs |
| Power/Size | 50W @ 110–220V; 40×18×18 cm | Easy integration into existing equipment |
Using this machine, Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment standardizes terminal prep so field teams receive drop parts ready for quick installation. The CLX-BPO2 supports our lines in meeting volume targets without sacrificing 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 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.
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 suit storage and handling. Choose bow-type flat or self-supporting designs and steel wire or FRP strength members to meet span and isolation needs.
| Choice | Typical | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Reel length | 1, 2, or 4 km | Less staging, easier reels |
| Jacket | LSZH / PE / PVC | Indoor/outdoor compatibility |
| Design | Bow-type / Self-supporting | Routing and span flexibility |
As a manufacturer, Shanghai Weiye schedules runs to your plan and provides docs that lists final specifications for easy on-site QA.
Quality assurance, testing, and documentation
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment builds checkpoints into production so every item has recorded acceptance data at ship.
Environmental and Mechanical Tests
Our lab conducts elevated-temperature exposure, salt fog corrosion, and vibration tests to qualify materials and assemblies. These tests simulate field stresses for indoor/outdoor applications.
Full Test Reports for Every Reel
Every fiber optic cable ships with a 100% test report that logs attenuation, return loss, and geometry where applicable. Final QC gates prevent nonconforming shipments before they leave the factory.
Audit Trail and Compliance
Batch records tie test data to reels and serials so audits and claims are easy to verify. Documentation uses standard customer templates to speed approvals and inbound inspection.
- Line checks and final inspection prevent field failures and lower warranty events.
- Quality packages include spec confirmation and formatted test data for rapid review.
- Continuous test trends drive preventive maintenance and raise long-term reliability.
| Test | Purpose | Result |
|---|---|---|
| High-temperature | Material stability | Pass at target temperature |
| Salt spray | Corrosion robustness | Qualified for outdoor use |
| Mechanical vibration | Mechanical robustness | Reduced field failures |
FTTH Drop Cable Pricing & Cost Drivers
Budgeting for a drop run starts with fiber and jacket choices and is shaped by volume and customization.
Typical prices vary widely—from about $30 to $1,000 per unit—based on fiber grade, jacket chemistry (LSZH, PVC, PE), length, and design structure.
Primary Cost Inputs
The primary cost drivers are fiber optic grade, sheath material, and the structural type chosen for deployment.
Self-supporting structures and steel strength elements 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. Short runs often carry setup fees and higher per-unit charges.
- Line changeovers and custom tooling increase lead time and add cost.
- Clear RFQs with schedule alignment let Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment match quotes to delivery windows.
- Frameworks and indexed pricing stabilize budgets over phases.
| Driver | Effect on price | Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber grade | High impact | Balance spec vs. budget |
| Sheath material | Medium impact | Evaluate LSZH vs PE |
| Order length / volume | High impact | Consolidate runs to cut unit cost |
U.S. Lead Times, MOQ & Delivery
Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment keeps lead times/logistics clear so planners can align staffing and sites. Predictable schedules 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 orders under 500 km. We schedule line capacity to track your milestones and to maintain on-time delivery.
The service team provides updates/tracking so installation teams can plan arrivals. For compressed schedules, we hold contingency capacity to pull in critical-path orders.
Why MOQ 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 select reels to reduce waste/handling. Batch releases can balance inventory with frequent, smaller deliveries to job sites.
Installation Scenarios & Readiness
Site conditions determine whether a self-supporting span, duct 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 recommends self-supporting designs with correct strength members to control sag and tension for long-term reliability.
Duct installations perform 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 require proper depth control per local codes and moisture-resistant jackets 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 cable forms strip clean and present controlled stubs for fast ONT terminations.
We guide the choice of steel or FRP (dielectric) strength members based on bonding needs, lightning exposure, and hardware fit. Standardized prep from the production line shortens install time and minimizes scrap.
| Scenario | Key design | Field note |
|---|---|---|
| Aerial | Self-supporting (steel/FRP) | Verify messenger hardware/tension |
| Duct | Low-friction jacket, crush resistance | Use pull tape and proper lubricant |
| Direct-buried | PE with moisture barrier | Follow depth/warning tape codes |
| Interior | LSZH jacket, 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.
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 through approved drawings and pilot builds. We provide doc templates and clear install 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 test reports and traceability to support QA acceptance.
- 24/7 availability for status and technical support.
- Warranty includes free replacement for confirmed quality issues.
- Schedule coordination for expedites and urgent changes.
- Config control so shipped items match agreed requirements every time.
| Area | Scope | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Tech/Eng | Spec review & pre-production builds | Fewer field issues |
| Testing | Lab trials & 100% test reports | Full traceability |
| Service | Rapid replacement & root-cause | Minimized downtime |
Conclusion
Choose Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment for tailored drop builds, short lead times, and traceable quality records.
We deliver customized FTTH drop solutions that combine materials with validated manufacturing and lab tests. Every reel includes a 100% test report and documented trials to support field acceptance in the United States.
A hardened production line, including CLX-BPO2-enabled prep machines, cuts variability and speeds turnaround. Our equipment set standardize strip and stub lengths so installers see consistent results at turn-up.
From fiber selection through 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 remains on plan.
Get in touch with Shanghai Weiye OFC Equipment to align specs, timeline, and volume. We stand behind every fiber optic and optic cable shipment with laboratory validation and responsive service.