When preparing a splice closure, what should be done with the fiberglass rod strength member in loose-tube fiber-optic cable?

When preparing a splice closure for loose-tube fiber-optic cable, it is important to ensure that the splice is secure and well-protected from environmental factors. The fiberglass rod strength member typically serves several purposes in the cable's design, including providing tensile strength and maintaining the integrity of the tube's shape. However, in the context of setting up a splice closure, trimming it back can be essential for a couple of reasons.

By trimming the fiberglass rod, the technician can help create a cleaner and less cluttered workspace within the closure, which can improve the overall organization of fibers and reduce the risk of injury during installation. Furthermore, this approach ensures that the strength member does not interfere with the splice itself or pose a risk of damaging the fibers during installation or in the event of a closure shift. Properly managing the length of the strength member enhances the effectiveness and reliability of the closure, promoting long-term performance of the fiber-optic network.

Ultimately, trimming back the strength member allows for a better fit within the closure while still preserving the necessary structural support that the rod provides. This balance is crucial for maintaining both the operational efficiency of the fiber-optic system and the integrity of the splice.