Influence of External Effects on the Optical Characteristics of an Optical Fiber

The influence of such external influences as bending, axial tension and torsion on the optical and strength characteristics of the optical fiber has been studied. It is shown that the tension of the bent optical fiber causes an increase in optical losses compared to the case of the unstretched fiber. It should be taken into account that this effect affects not only the signal-to-noise ratio at the output of the system, but also the possibility of unauthorized access. The risk of shortening the service life of the fiber also increases. The combined effect of bending and torsion of the fiber also causes deterioration in the transmission characteristics of the fiber and its mechanical strength. Thus, it has been shown that during the installation and operation of an optical cable system, situations that cause bending, axial tension and torsion of the optical fiber, and even more so their combined effects, should be avoided. Reflectometric methods can be used to diagnose these effects.