Abstract: A metal-encased light conductor having a continuous pressure boundary seal capable of use to transmit light signals in an environment having a pressure up to about 5000 psi based on a sealing length of a minimum of 6 inches and a temperature falling in the range of from about -40.degree. C. to about 250.degree. C., and comprising a core/clad optical fiber, coated with polyimide, surrounded by a jacket of thermoplastic resin on which there is a cured film of epoxy resin, and compressed by a surrounding mechanically reduced ductile metal sheath.

Abstract: A fiberscope inspection system for a nuclear steam generating plant includes an optical unit and a transport unit respectively coupled to opposite ends of the fiberoptic cable and mounted at spaced-apart points on a trolley beneath the tube sheet, with the fiberoptic cable hanging freely in a catenary between the two units, both of which are coupled by cable to a remote control station. The optical unit is self-contained and includes a light source, a video camera and a focusing mechanism and chain and sprocket remotely-controlled drive means for controlling the focusing mechanism. The transport unit includes a cartridge comprising a coil of a steel drive tape, the leading end of which is welded to a split-sleeve coupling disposed in clamping engagement with the leading end of the fiberoptic cable, the tape being engageable by a drive sprocket for driving same to feed and retract the fiberoptic cable. Position sensing means are provided for monitoring the position of the fiberscope probe.