Abstract: A fiber optic assembly includes a buffer tube forming an elongate passage and a plurality of optical fibers positioned therein. The buffer tube includes at least one layer of a composite material that includes a base material and a filler material blended therein. Particles of the filler material have an acicular structure, having a longest dimension that is on average at least ten times a narrowest dimension of the particles. Further the buffer tube has kink resistance.

Abstract: A fire resistant optical communication cable is provided. The fire-resistant optical communication cable includes an extruded cable body including an inner surface defining a passage in the cable body and an outer surface. The fire-resistant optical communication cable includes a plurality of elongate optical transmission elements located within the passage of the cable body. The fire-resistant optical communication cable includes a layer of intumescent particles embedded in the material of the cable body forming an intumescent layer within the cable body. The cable may include one or more elements having flame resistant coatings that, upon exposure to heat, form a ceramic layer increasing the combustion time of the coated element.

Abstract: A fiber optic assembly includes a buffer tube forming an elongate passage and a plurality of optical fibers positioned therein. The buffer tube includes at least one layer of a composite material that includes a base material and a filler material blended therein. Particles of the filler material have an acicular structure, having a longest dimension that is on average at least ten times a narrowest dimension of the particles. Further the buffer tube has kink resistance.

Abstract: A method of forming a low-cost drop cable (10) is disclosed. The method includes providing a protective cover material (352) having an extrusion temperature of 140° C.?TE?160° C. The protective cover material is extruded through a die (420) having a single aperture (424) that defines the cable's elongate cross-sectional shape. The extrusion process involves covering first and second strength members (30) on either side of at least one optical fiber (50). The combination of the low temperature of the extrudable protective cover material and the elongate shape of the single die aperture cause the formation of an oval cavity (20) within the extruded protective cover material. The oval cavity has major and central axes (A1, AC) and surrounds the at least one optical fiber. The strength members lie along the cavity major axis. Tensioning the strength members during extrusion and then releasing the tension causes the drop cable length to be reduced.