Netherlands based Teijin Aramid has launched Twaron Tape to provide a new and improved way of protecting fibre optic cables, which play an increasing role in today’s telecommunications. The fragile cores of the fibre optic cables need protection from various hazards and strains.

According to Teijin, fibre optic cables are getting smaller and smaller making it more difficult to protect the fibre optic core. Twaron Tape is an aramid fibre matrix construction that enables the production of fibre optic cables with a diameter as small as 1.2mm and is said to simultaneously provide three to five times better crush resistance compared to currently used aramid fibre protection.

Teijin says the production of thinner cables using Twaron Tape results in several advantages compared to current solutions. For example, the production of 1.2mm cables is said to translate into an increased capacity for optical distribution frames of 30-50% (compared with 1.6mm cable) and also the thinner cables demand less cooling power, thereby cutting costs and emissions at distribution centres.

According to Teijin, Twaron Tape D2800 is a robust and flexible patented solution that contributes to increased cable production speed, saving valuable time and the company says Twaron’s flexibility enables quicker and more convenient installation and handling, with easier stripping and connectorization of optical fibre cables.

The tape consists of a single, spread Twaron yarn which is impregnated and fixed with a matrix material. This results in significant saving in space and enables cables to be this thin. In order to provide complete coverage and optimal force and crush resistance, it is evenly wrapped around the core of the cable.

“We are one of the early pioneers of reinforcement technology for fibre-optic cables, and as this market has developed, we have gained an in-depth understanding of the market requirements. We are proud to contribute to this industry by offering our knowledge in high performance aramid fibres to our worldwide partners,” said Christoph Hahn, Commercial Director at Teijin Aramid.

 Teijin Aramid experts will be present at Wire Düsseldorf 2012, to show Twaron Tape and discuss with visitors how they could benefit from the added value of the new product