Abstract: An optical fiber cable with a plurality of buffer tubes wherein the buffer tubes each encase a bundle of optical fibers. The buffer tubes are color-coded by means of mixing a buffer tube material with a colorant before or during the extrusion process. A polyolefin is used as the base resin for the color concentrate resulting in increased let down ratios. By using less colorant to deliver desired amount of pigment to the buffer tube, cost savings and enhanced processability are achieved.

Abstract: An all-dielectric, self-supporting (ADSS), loose-tube fiber optic cable includes a plurality of buffer tubes respectively containing stacks of optical fiber ribbons. The buffer tubes are longitudinally stranded around a longitudinally extending central strength member to define a lay length. A longitudinally extending outer strength assembly extends around the plurality of buffer tubes, and a longitudinally extending sheath extends around the outer strength assembly. A first end of a section of the cable can be attached to a first pole extending upward from the ground and a second end of the section of the cable can be attached to a second pole extending upward from the ground so that the section is suspended between the poles and the section is tensioned due to the weight of the cable.