HexaCore OPGW Optical Ground Wire is a high-performance overhead cable that combines electrical grounding, lightning protection, and optical communication in a single structure. Designed for high-voltage and ultra-high-voltage transmission lines, TX-HexaCore features fiber-bearing stainless steel tubes stranded with aluminum-clad steel and aluminum alloy wires. Hermetically sealed tubes provide mechanical and thermal protection for fibers, while the multi-layer design supports long spans and high environmental loading. Each tube is uniquely identified to simplify organization at splice points. With fiber counts up to 432 and anti-rotational installation devices usually unnecessary, TX-HexaCore delivers reliable SCADA, voice, video, and data transmission, making it ideal for both new and retrofit transmission lines. Its robust construction ensures long-term performance under wind, ice, and electrical fault conditions.
International Standard Compliance
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IEEE 1138 (OPGW performance & testing)
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IEC 60794-4 (OPGW cable specification)
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IEC 60794-1-2 (Cable test procedures)
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TIA-598-D (Fiber color code)
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ASTM B415 (Aluminum-clad steel wire)
Construction & Materials
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Optical Unit: Laser-welded stainless steel tubes
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Fiber Count: Up to 432 fibers
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Fiber Type: G.652.D, G.655, G.657A1, OM3/OM4 options
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Stranding: Multi-layered aluminum-clad steel and aluminum alloy wires
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Mechanical Protection: Hermetically sealed tubes and robust conductor layers
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Identification: Each tube is uniquely marked for splice organization
Installation Guide
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Install as shield wire on overhead transmission lines
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Use dedicated OPGW suspension and tension clamps
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Monitor sag and tension according to line design
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Avoid fiber strain during stringing and handling
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Test optical performance after installation
OPGW Core Structure Comparison
| OPGW Design Type | Fiber Placement & Protection | Structural Configuration | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| HexaCore | Optical fibers are housed in multiple gel-filled stainless steel tubes for enhanced mechanical and thermal protection | Stainless steel tubes are stranded together with aluminum and aluminum-clad steel wires to form a multi-layer structure | High fiber count transmission lines, long spans, high mechanical and electrical loading |
| CentraCore | Optical fibers are placed in a single central gel-filled stainless steel tube enclosed within an aluminum tube | Aluminum-clad steel and aluminum alloy wires are stranded concentrically around the central tube in one or more layers | Medium to high voltage transmission lines require balanced mechanical strength and compact design |
| MiniCore | Optical fibers are protected inside a compact stainless steel tube | Aluminum-clad steel and aluminum alloy wires twisted around the optical unit in one or more layers | Lower fiber count applications, retrofit projects, and space-constrained installations |
