Application of optical communications for power distribution companies

Optical fibers used in electric power distribution companies are described. There are two kinds of optical fibers used along with grounding wires; one is called the built-in type, in which optical fibers are inserted in the core part of one grounding wire, and one other is called the winding type, in which the optical fiber cable is wound around existing grounding wire. The two types of built-in optical grounding wires (OPGW), rigid and loose, are described. A new design for an OPGW is outlined. An example of the winding type OPGW is shown. Fiber cables used by power distribution companies are conventional and have a relatively small number of fibers in the cable and many branches and splices. Pair-ribbon slot cables, which are suitable for such purposes, were recently developed and widely put into practical use. Pair-ribbon cables and splicing of pair ribbon cables are discussed