Abstract: A non-metallic flexible elongate strengthening member suitable for use as a strengthening member of an optical cable comprises a plurality of non-metallic flexible elements helically laid around a central non-metallic flexible element, each of which flexible elements comprises a multiplicity of filaments of non-metallic reinforcing material, e.g. non-optical glass or an aromatic polyamide, bonded together by a heat-softenable organic material, e.g. polypropylene or nylon, and is coated with a release agent, e.g. a film of silicone oil. The flexible elements of the assembly are so deformed and compacted together that any tendency for the flexible elements to spring apart is substantially eliminated.

Abstract: A flexible stranded body, such as an electric conductor of an overhead electric transmission or distribution system, comprises at least one stranded layer of elongate elements of metal or metal alloy, at least one elongate compartment within and extending throughout the length of the stranded body and, loosely housed in the elongate compartment, at least one separate optical fibre and/or at least one optical bundle. Preferably, the elongate compartment extends within a circumferentially rigid central core which is surrounded by the stranded layer or layers but it may be a bore in an elongate element of a stranded layer or an elongate space bounded by two adjacent elongate elements.

Abstract: A flexible stranded body, such as an electric conductor of an overhead electric transmission or distribution system, comprises at least one stranded layer of elongate elements of metal or metal alloy, at least one elongate compartment within and extending throughout the length of the stranded body and, loosely housed in the elongate compartment, at least one separate optical fibre and/or at least one optical bundle. Preferably, the elongate compartment extends within a circumferentially rigid central core which is surrounded by the stranded layer or layers but it may be a bore in an elongate element of a stranded layer or an elongate space bounded by two adjacent elongate elements.

Abstract: A flexible stranded body, such as an electric conductor of an overhead electric transmission or distribution system, comprises at least one stranded layer of elongate elements of metal or metal alloy, at least one elongate compartment within and extending throughout the length of the stranded body and, loosely housed in the elongate compartment, at least one separate optical fibre and/or at least one optical bundle. Preferably, the elongate compartment extends within a circumferentially rigid central core which is surrounded by the stranded layer or layers but it may be a bore in an elongate element of a stranded layer or an elongate space bounded by two adjacent elongate elements.

Abstract: A flexible stranded body, such as an electric conductor of an overhead electric transmission or distribution system, comprises at least one stranded layer of elongate elements of metal or metal alloy, at least one elongate compartment within and extending throughout the length of the stranded body and, loosely housed in the elongate compartment, at least one separate optical fibre and/or at least one optical bundle. Preferably, the elongate compartment extends within a circumferentially rigid central core which is surrounded by the stranded layer or layers but it may be a bore in an elongate element of a stranded layer or an elongate space bounded by two adjacent elongate elements.

Abstract: A flexible stranded body, such as an electric conductor of an overhead electric transmission or distribution system, comprises at least one stranded layer of elongate elements of metal or metal alloy, at least one elongate compartment within and extending throughout the length of the stranded body and, loosely housed in the elongate compartment, at least one separate optical fibre and/or at least one optical bundle. Preferably, the elongate compartment extends within a circumferentially rigid central core which is surrounded by the stranded layer or layers but it may be a bore in an elongate element of a stranded layer or an elongate space bounded by two adjacent elongate elements.The questions raised in reexamination request No. 90/000,772, filed Apr. 16, 1985, have been considered and the results thereof are reflected in this reissue patent which constitutes the reexamination certificate required by 35 U.S.C. 307 as provided in 37 CFR 1.570(e).