scope:

This standard covers the performance, test requirements, procedures, and acceptance criteria for a transmission line overhead ground wire (a.k.a. shield wire, static wire, earth wire, skywire) with optical fibers commonly known as optical ground wire (OPGW). An OPGW cable has the dual performance functions of a ground wire with telecommunications capabilities.

This standard includes functional requirements, such as electrical, mechanical, optical fiber, environmental and packaging, and test requirements related to design, installation, in-service, and maintenance, including routine tests.

This standard is not intended to supersede any established safety rules, codes, regulations, or practices associated with the use of OPGW cables. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and to determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

Purpose

This standard covers the construction, mechanical and electrical performance, acceptance criteria, and test requirements for overhead ground wire (OPGW) designed to be located primarily on overhead power utility facilities. The standard provides performance and testing requirements that insure within the guidelines of this standard that the mechanical and electrical capabilities of the cable and cable components properly maintain mechanical integrity, optical fiber integrity, and optical transmission.