What is the minimum recommended long-term bend radius for fiber optic cables?

The minimum recommended long-term bend radius for fiber optic cables is more than 10 times the cable diameter. This specification is crucial because exceeding the bend radius can induce stress on the fibers, potentially leading to micro-bending and macro-bending, which can degrade signal quality and lead to increased attenuation.

Maintaining the appropriate bend radius ensures that the fibers within the cable remain intact and the optical performance remains stable over time. While some applications may have stricter requirements for bend radius, such as more than 15 or 20 times the cable diameter, the foundational guideline starts at over 10 times the cable diameter, providing a good balance for both installation flexibility and long-term performance. Understanding and adhering to these bend radius guidelines is essential for technicians to prevent damage and ensure the reliability of fiber optic systems.