How to Bury Fiber Optic Cables

There are two standard types of outdoor fiber optic cable installations: underground cable installation and pole line aerial installation. Today, we’re going to dive into the basics of the first type of installation: burying fiber optic cables. Understanding the basics of how to bury fiber optic cables will help you gain more trust in your cable installation company.

Before starting any kind of underground cable installation, it’s critical that you: 

• Acquire the necessary right-of-way permits
• Mark off any nearby underground utilities
• Thoroughly examine the condition of the soil to determine which method should be used, the depth of installation, type of fiber cable needed, and if plowing equipment will be necessary

When performing underground cable installation, there are two methods that can be used. The first method involves placing the cable into a buried duct, and the second involves burying the cable directly underground.

Buried Duct Placement

Underground ducts protect fiber optic cables from harsh environments, which makes this method the most common for urban areas. When this method is used, the cables are pulled through theses ducts, and the opportunity for future expansion without digging arises. Buried duct placement is very easy to perform because cables without armor can be used.

Direct Burial Fiber Optic Cable

Cross-country installations often require direct burial installations. In these instances, the process is fairly quick, and fiber optic cables are buried or plowed in a trench. Typically, the cables used in this method are steel armored outdoor fiber cables.

Direct burial fiber optic cable installation can be a very dangerous and tricky job. Because they are installed the same way that pipelines are, hiring a skilled expert in the pipeline industry to bury fiber optic cables is your best bet. When you hire a professional like those at Stan’s Airboat & Marsh Excavator Service, you can rest assured that your cables are installed with the utmost precision and environmental consideration. Contact us today to request a quote!