Abstract: An apparatus and method for continuously manufacturing optical fiber cable in which optical fiber is encased by an hermetically sealed homogeneous metal tube formed from flat metal strips. A first assembly of mating rollers having successively different shapes forms the flat metal strip into a partially formed tube having a longitudinal gap. Optical fiber is guided through the gap to lie within the partially formed tube. The tube is then closed by a second assembly of mating rollers having successively different shapes. A laser beam is used to weld the seam closed without filler metal and without heat shielding between the seam and the optical fiber. The finished tubing with optical fiber therein is sunk by being drawn through wire dies to reduce the diameter. A wheel draws the tubing through the apparatus at constant speed to effect a uniform weld line.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for continuously manufacturing optical fiber cable in which optical fiber is encased by an hermetically sealed homogeneous metal tube formed from flat metal strip. A first assembly of mating rollers having successively different shapes forms the flat metal strip into a partially formed tube having a longitudinal gap. Optical fiber is guided through the gap to lie within the partially formed tube. The tube is then closed by a second assembly of mating rollers having successively different shapes. A laser beam is used to weld the seam closed without filler metal and without heat shielding between the seam and the optical fiber. The finished tubing with optical fiber therein is sunk by being drawn through wire dies to reduce the diameter. A wheel draws the tubing through the apparatus at constant speed to effect a uniform weld line.