ADSS optical cables use metal fittings such as tension clamps, suspension clamps, dead-end clamps, and preformed wire assemblies to secure, anchor, and protect the cables.

Key Types of Metal Fittings

1. Tension Clamps (Dead-End Clamps)
   • Used at terminal towers, tension towers, or points where the cable changes direction.
   • Composed of pre-twisted inner and outer wires, U-shaped rings, heart-shaped rings, and connection plates to grip the cable without damaging the fibers .
   • Designed to handle mechanical loads and maintain cable tension, often achieving over 95% of the cable's ultimate tensile strength .
2. Suspension Clamps
   • Installed along straight sections of the cable to support it without tension.
   • Typically made of aluminum alloy or galvanized steel, sometimes combined with UV-resistant polymer inlays to prevent abrasion .
   • Suitable for line angles up to 30° and spans ranging from 100 to 600 meters depending on design .
3. Preformed Strain Sets / Pre-twisted Wire Assemblies
   • Used for anchoring and fixing ADSS cables on terminal, corner, or tension towers.
   • Include inner and outer pre-twisted wires and pull rings, distributing stress evenly to prevent fiber damage .
4. Guide Wire Clips and Shock Absorbers
   • Protect the cable from vibration, wind-induced oscillation, and mechanical shocks.
   • Often made of galvanized steel or aluminum alloys to ensure long-term durability .
5. Down Conductor Clamps and Pole Hanging Clamps
   • Secure the cable to poles or towers, maintaining proper alignment and preventing slippage.
   • Can include stainless steel bands or aluminum-clad steel wires for corrosion resistance .

Materials and Durability

• Aluminum alloys: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and suitable for long-term outdoor exposure.
• Galvanized steel: Provides high mechanical strength and resistance to environmental stress.
• Stainless steel: Used for bands and fasteners to prevent corrosion.
• UV-resistant polymers: Often combined with metal components to protect the cable jacket from abrasion and UV damage .

Function and Importance

Metal fittings in ADSS cables are critical for:

• Mechanical support: Ensuring the cable remains securely anchored and tensioned.
• Cable protection: Distributing stress evenly to prevent fiber breakage or attenuation.
• Environmental resistance: Withstanding wind, ice, UV radiation, and temperature fluctuations.
• Safety and reliability: Preventing cable slippage or failure that could disrupt telecommunications networks . In summary, ADSS optical cables rely on a combination of tension clamps, suspension clamps, preformed wire assemblies, and other metal fittings made from durable materials like aluminum alloys and galvanized steel to ensure secure, long-lasting, and safe overhead installations.