Abstract: A communication cable (20) includes a core (22) comprising a plurality of transmission media having a relatively supple layer (26) of a plastic material wrapped thereabout. Disposed about the layer of plastic material and in engagement therewith is a relatively rigid inner plastic jacket (28). Disposed about the inner jacket are additional components of a sheath system such as metallic shields and one or more additional plastic jackets. Interposed between the relatively supple layer of plastic material and the jacket is a water-blocking system which comprises two elongated strand materials (42, 44) such as yarns. The two elongated strand materials are wrapped helically about the layer of plastic material in opposite helical directions. The elongated strand materials are characterized by being yarn blends which comprise a portion of water-blocking filaments and a portion of relatively high strength filaments.

Abstract: An aerial cable (20) includes a transmission portion and a supporting portion. The transmission portion includes a core (21) comprising at least one transmission medium enclosed in a relatively flexible dielectric wrapping material (23). The wrapping material is enclosed by two metallic shields (31, 40) between which is interposed a layer (42) of a waterblocking material. An outer one (40) of the shields is formed with overlapping longitudinal edge portions at least one of which is turned inwardly toward the core. A cavity (44) between those edge portions is provided with a waterblocking material which inhibits the longitudinal flow of water. The supporting portion includes a longitudinally extending strand material (60) capable of supporting a length of the cable which is supported by poles, for example, at ends of the length. A plastic jacket (45) encloses the supporting portion and the transmission portion.