Warren & Brown Technologies Pty. Ltd.

A.C.N. 006 610 797

108 Mitchell Street Maidstone, Victoria 3012, Australia.
Postal Address
PO Box 235 Footscray, Victoria, Australia, 3011
Fax: (613) 9318 5797 Tel: (613) 9317 6888
e-mail patrickle@warrenandbrown.com.au
web address www.warrenandbrown.com.au

PREFERRED OPTICAL FIBRE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS-

BASKET TRAY VERSUS OPTICAL TROUGHING
 Section Contents Page
1.0 Wire Basket Tray VS Lightpaths Optical Trough Duct 3
1.1 Executive Summary 3
2.0 Ducting Properties Compared 4
2.1 Length of Raceway 4
2.2 Depth of Raceway 4
2.3 Width of Raceway 4
2.4 Weight of Raceway 4
2.5 Appearance 4
2.6 Resistance to Corrosion 5
2.7 Resistance to Fire 5
2.8 Materials 5
3.0 Installation Considerations 6
3.1 Mounting Conditions 6
3.2 Time of Installation 6
3.3 Tools Required for Installation 6
3.4 Compatibility With Other Brands 6
4.0 Costs 7
4.1 Transport Costs 7
4.2 Installation Cost 7
5.0 Cable Requirements 8
5.1 Pressure Points 8
5.2 Cable Fill Capacity 8
5.3 Compatibility With Cable Types 8
5.4 Cable Entry and Exit Freedom 8
5.5 Minimum Bend Radius 8
5.6 Expandability in Case of Extra Cable Requirements 9
6.0 Miscellaneous 10
6.1 Warranty Period 10
6.2 International Standards Met 10
7.0 Conclusion 11
Appendix A 12
Appendix B 14
Appendix C 15
Appendix D 16
Appendix E 17
Appendix F 18

2
1.0 Wire Basket Tray VS Lightpaths Optical Trough Duct

1.1 Executive summary

This report aims to facilitate the choice between wire baskets and optical troughs. It will
provide answers to the most common purchase questions faced by managers when choosing
between the two different types of cable management systems.

Ducting properties, installation considerations, costs, cable requirements, warranty periods and
compliance issues are the main points of comparison discussed in this report.

To represent the case for choosing trough ducting, Lightpaths Fibre Optic System was used to
represent the typical trough system.

In summing up the contents, a key finding was that, being purposely designed for fibre optical
cords, the Lightpaths system is a better choice than the wire basket tray system. Lightpaths is
lighter, cheaper, less subject to failure due to human error, and was purposely designed with
the constraints of fibre optic cords in mind.

Although both have comparable properties, as in fire resistance, ease of mounting and ease of
connecting straight lengths together, Lightpaths has more advantages.

For example, if installed incorrectly basket trays can breach the minimum bend radius of
optical fibres, or if overloaded, can easily compress the fibres. The Lightpaths system does
not allow this to occur, or the occurrence of pressure points which causes compression
damage.

Not only does human error play a critical part during the installation of a wire basket system,
but also in its purchasing. For example, choosing the wrong coating, can lead to future
problems with corrosion and conductivity when installed in an incompatible environment.

Another disadvantage is that the longer and heavier design of wire basket trays, significantly
adds to freight costs compared to that of Lightpaths’ ducting.

Finally, being compatible with many brands, Lightpaths can be quickly integrated into an
existing duct system without any trouble. Wire basket trays, on the other hand, do not
typically feature interconnecting adaptors.

3
2.0 Ducting Properties Compared

2.1 Length of Raceway

All Lightpaths straight ducting comes in 2 metre lengths and depending on the size chosen it
can support up to 3400 1.3 to 2mm cords. If shorter lengths are required then raceways can be
cut by using a mitre box and a panel saw.

Straight lengths of wire baskets typically come in 3 metre lengths, and like the Lightpaths
ducting, lengths can also be adjusted to meet requirements. The adjustment process is simpler
and requires just a wire cutter to cut off unneeded lengths. However, the cut end is often sharp
and is a potential hazard to installers and end users. In addition, the sharp edges also provide a
risk with the potential to damage delicate optical fiber cords.

2.2 Depth of Raceway

The maximum depth of Lightpaths ducting is four inches, whilst the typical wire baskets has a
maximum depth of six inches. Although deeper, this does not necessarily mean that more
cables can be run through the system because overloading can result in compression damage
due to crushing.

2.3 Width of Raceway

With a maximum width of eighteen inches, the typical wire basket tray is wider than the
largest twelve inch wide raceway that Lightpaths offers. However, such a large size is not
commonly used and a smaller size can often do the job just as well and save space.

2.4 Weight of Raceway

A typical Lightpaths 100x100x2000mm (Warren and Brown part number TC1279-23 see
Appendix B) solid duct weighs just 2.3kg, making it much lighter than its wire basket
counterpart. Typically measuring 100x105x3000mm, the average straight length of basket
tray, weighs in at 4.1kg and is heavier even when the extra length is taken into account.

The lighter weight makes Lightpaths’ ducting easier and cheaper to transport, install and
safely handle.

2.5 Appearance

Lightpaths Ducting is available in yellow, black and orange and is easily distinguished from
other cable trays or ducts. Its enclosed design hides all traces of cords, effectively making this
product much more aesthetically acceptable. The three colours are made available for
customers who wish to run redundant systems with a different colour used for the redundant
system.

On the other hand, wire basket systems feature an open steel mesh design that also neatly
stores cords but it leaves them exposed and in view. Some manufacturers market this as
desirable because it allows cables to be inspected easily. However, such a design offers little

4
security against tampering and damage and presents a basic industrial appearance, which may
not be desired and understate the importance of the optic fibre that is being carried by the tray.

2.6 Resistance to Corrosion

Being manufactured from a plastic alloy, Lightpaths ducting is not subject to corrosion.

Wire basket trays come in various finishes, the most common one is the electroplated Zinc
Galvanizing (Standard Stock Finish) - Electrodeposited zinc coating applied to an average
thickness of 0.7 mils (18 microns) to 0.8 mils (20 microns). This surface treatment is suitable
for most indoor applications and may be used outdoors in mild environments only.

2.7 Resistance to Fire

In the event of fire, the halogen free Lightpaths Ducting System does not release toxic or
corrosive gases which can be fatal, cause irreversible damage to electronic equipment and in
some cases even weaken the structure of buildings. Manufactured from a plastic polymer, the
system is also self-extinguishing. In addition, Lightpaths is one of the few products
manufactured from halogen free materials.

Most basket tray manufacturers comply with tough standards, to ensure that the critical
services (emergency lighting, fans, emergency exit, fire alarm, etc.) remain functional for long
enough to organize rescue in the event of fire.

2.8 Materials

Lightpaths Ducting is manufactured from a lightweight, halogen free plastic polymer, which is
dyed bright yellow, black or orange. There is no complex range of alternatives needed to meet
specific requirements, just a choice of colour.

On the other hand, being manufactured from steel mesh, choosing the correct basket tray
finish can be a complicated task. Corrosion resistance, conductivity, and other factors need to
be considered otherwise the wrong finish could lead to problems in the future. Some of the
finishes are listed below.

-Electroplated Zinc Galvanizing (Standard Stock Finish) - Electrodeposited zinc coating

applied to an average thickness of 0.7 mils (18 microns) to 0.8 mils (20 microns). This surface
treatment is suitable for most indoor applications and may be used outdoors in mild
environments only.

-Hot Dip Galvanizing - Provided by immersing the product in a molten zinc bath, this coating
is applied to an average thickness of 2.4 mils (60 microns) to 3.2 mils (80 microns). This
treatment is most suitable for outdoor applications or situations where increased corrosion
resistance is desired.

-Epoxy Powder Coat Paint - Powder painted surface treatment using ASA 61. This finish
option provides an aesthetically pleasing durable coating recommended for use in office
buildings and various other indoor applications. Powder Coat colours are available on special

5
request.

Stainless Steel - Corrosive resistant AISI 316L Stainless Steel with no additional surface
treatment. This material option provides the most corrosion resistant option available.
Stainless steel is used primarily in marine environments or food processing facilities.

3.0 Installation Considerations

3.1 Mounting Conditions

Lightpaths Ducting is modular and comprises a range of components that allow the system to
be easily installed in both overhead and under floor situations. The extensive range of mounts,
allows mounting from walls, ladder rack, ceilings, unistrut, on raised floor support brackets,
on floors, or to the top of equipment racks or frames. In addition, changes in levels, to avoid
obstacles for example, are easily achieved using vertical elbows.

Basket tray systems can also be installed in both overhead and under floor situations and the
wire basket design also allows for changes in levels with ease.

3.2 Time of Installation

A typical installation of Lightpaths Ducting (See Appendix D) takes about 40 labour hours,
provided the room is free from obstacles.

Currently there is no data available for a similar basket tray system; however Warren and
Brown Technologies estimates, a similar quantity of labour would be required.

3.3 Tools Required for Installation

Using clip on joints, lengths of Lightpaths Ducting are quick and easy to connect together
without using any tools. Drop offs can be quickly cut out using the Lightpaths Cut out Tool,
anywhere in the system and drop components can be easily clipped on with joints. Even the
mounting brackets slot easily into the ducting without the use of any tools.

Basket trays require connectors to clip straight lengths together, also without using any tools.
Drop offs do not have to be cut out due to the product’s open mesh design and drop off kits are
also joined together quickly via fast fix connectors. A major disadvantage with wire baskets is
that sharp edges are created when shortened with wire cutters. Unless smoothed out with
power tools, the edges can be a potential safety hazard and risk the integrity of the optical
fibre.

3.4 Compatibility with Other Brands

“Between brand adapters” are ducting sections that can connect different brands of ducting
together. Adaptors are important as different brands of ducting may need to exist in the same
central office. Usually, ducting is installed as frames or racks of equipment are installed,
rather than installing ducting for the entire central office at one time. New equipment
placement usually can not be predicted, making it difficult to order ducting for the entire office
at one time. As Purchasing Managers change, or as new, different brands of ducting emerge,
6
so does the preference in ducting brands. This can result in the existence of different brands of
ducting in an office, and the subsequent requirement for between-brand adapters. Lightpaths
is compatible with other major brands of ducting with its wide range of adaptors.

On the other hand, most basket tray manufacturers do not sell between brand adapters, making
it very difficult to be used with other brands of ducting. Consequently, basket tray end users
do not have the luxury of easily switching between brands in the event of price increases,
supply shortages or other reasons.
4.0 Costs

4.1 Transport Costs

Being lighter than basket trays, Lightpaths’ ducting is noticeably cheaper to transport and
easier to handle. Lightpaths’ standard two metre lengths also give users more options in
picking the right transport modes. For example unlike basket tray’s standard three metre
lengths, Lightpaths ducting can be secured safely and legally on top of passenger vehicle roof
racks.

4.2 Installation Costs

Please see section 3.2 for installation time and then convert to a dollar figure.

7
5.0 Cable Requirements

5.1 Pressure Points

Since the cables continuously rest on the Lightpaths Ducting, there are no pressure points
along the system except for when the cables drop out of the system into equipment racks.
Even when that occurs, the cables are always protected against compression and radius bend
guides ensure the minimum bend radius (30mm) is never exceeded.

On the other hand, cords in a basket tray will experience pressure points through out the
system as there are gaps in the mesh. As a result, the same dimension of basket tray can not
support the same amount of optical cords as the Lightpaths system. The costs resulting from
overloaded ducting can be very high even when only a single optical fibre is damaged. For
example, a single fibre can carry the conversations of every man, woman and child on the face
of this planet, at the same time, twice over.

5.2 Cable Fill Capacity

To cater for various needs, there are six sizes of Lightpaths Ducting available which can be
interconnected via easy to clip on adaptors. The maximum load capacity is 3400 optical cords
of 2mm cable, which is ample for almost all applications.

Not being specifically designed to meet the requirements of fibre optic cords, it is difficult to
get exact specifications on the fill capacity of a typical basket tray system. Some
manufacturers do make a brief mention of optical cords, but only briefly because basket trays
were not designed specifically for optical cords alone. Basket trays have a perception of use
for electrical cabling and if they are installed for fibre alone in the first place they become a
convenient route for all other forms of cabling later

5.3 Compatibility with Cable Types

Since Lightpaths Ducting is non-conductive and constantly supports cords without sagging, it
is compatible with both optical and copper cable.

Basket trays can also support both types of cables, although the gaps between the mesh causes
pressure points and may damage optical cables if overloaded.

5.4 Cable Entry and Exit Freedom

By using the Lightpaths Cut Out tool, drop offs can be added anywhere along the raceways.
In fact the Lightpaths Fibre Spreader allows drop offs to be produced in existing ducting
systems that already contain cables.
8
Since basket trays feature an open mesh design, drop offs can occur anywhere in the system.
Like the Lightpaths system, drop offs can be retrofitted in an existing system that already
contains cables.

5.5 Minimum Bend Radius

Lightpaths Ducting always protects optical fibres against compression damage, and radius
bend guides ensure the minimum bend radius (30mm) is never exceeded.

On the other hand, a basket tray system can be modified by the end user to maintain a
minimum bend radius of 30mm but this requires a lot of wire cutting, manual bending and
smoothing of sharp edges.
5.6 Expandability in Case of Extra Cable Requirements

Lightpaths Ducting can be inexpensively retro-fitted, with rack drop offs in custom situations,
without endangering existing cords in the duct. The ability to be changed or extended without
the need to remove the existing fibre or shut down services, is a key feature.

Basket trays can also be retro-fitted without removing the existing fibre, however unlike
Lightpaths Ducting it can not be easily expanded with ducting components from other brands.

9
6.0 Miscellaneous

6.1 Warranty Period

As Lightpaths is manufactured to the highest quality international standards (ISO9001), it

offers a competitive 5 year warranty for all ducting parts. Basket tray manufacturers also offer
competitive warranties of anywhere between ninety days up to twenty five years for all parts.

6.2 International Standards Met

See Appendix E for all standards that most basket tray manufactures meet.
See Appendix F for Lightpaths Standards met.

10
7.0 Conclusion

The choice between basket trays and Lightpaths ducting can often be confusing. Both are fire
resistant, easily mountable, and connecting straight lengths of ducting is made simple.

However, not being designed exclusively for use with optical cords there are several
drawbacks with choosing basket trays. For example, if installed incorrectly basket trays can
breach the minimum bend radius of optical fibres or if overloaded, can easily compress the
fibres. The Lightpaths system does not allow this to occur.

Not only is human error a potential problem with installing basket trays, but it’s also a
problem when choosing the correct finish. The wrong finish in the wrong environment can
lead to major problems with corrosion and conductivity. The Lightpaths range removes these
problems by coming only in a halogen free plastic polymer.

Another drawback with choosing basket trays is that their size and weight makes
transportation more difficult and costly than Lightpaths ducting. This problem is compounded
when transporting over large distances and can affect the original purchase price
exponentially.

Being compatible with many brands, Lightpaths can be quickly integrated into an existing duct
system without any trouble. Basket trays on the other hand, are not designed with
interconnecting adaptors so integrating into different brands is very difficult.

Finally, by using wire mesh tray for the ducting of fibre optic cable can later represent a very
strong temptation to run much heavier cables over the top of the fibre and ultimately place the
integrity of the fibre at risk which of course increases risk for the users.

In conclusion, Lightpaths is the better choice for use with optical fibres. It is lighter, cheaper,
less subject to failure due to human error, and was purposely designed with the properties of
fibre optics in mind.

11
 Appendix A

Systems compared

Features Typical Wire Basket Light Paths Trough

Tray Ducting

Duct properties
Length of Raceway 3 metres adjustable with 2 metres adjustable with
wire cutters saw and mitre box
Depth of Raceway Up to 6 inches Up to 4 inches
Width of Raceway Up to 18 inches Up to 12 inches
Resistance to corrosion Depending on chosen Complete
finish
Resistance to fire Yes Yes
Weight Heavy Lighter
Appearance Open mesh design allows Neatly hides cables.
cables to be viewed Ducting is bright yellow
Hides cords No Yes
Materials Typically zinc coated steel Halogen free plastic
mesh polymer

Installation considerations
Mounting from walls Yes Yes
Mounting from ladder racks Yes Yes
Mounting from unistruts Yes Yes
Mounting from on raised floor Yes Yes
support brackets
Mounting on top of equipment Yes Yes
racks or frames
Space requirements Minimal as different sizes Minimal as different
can interconnect sizes can interconnect
Installation time Minimal as supports are Longer since more tools
12

Tools required for installation
Distance between supports
Compatibility with different
ducting brands
Costs
Labour Costs of installation
Time to connect ducting parts
Average price per metre
Cable requirements
Pressure points
Cable Fill capacity
Compatibility with cable
types
Cable entry/exit freedom
Upgradeability without
removing existing fibres
Bend radius
Miscellaneous
Warranty period
Meets standards
farther apart and mainly
just wire cutters are used
Wire cutters
1.5 metres for first support
followed by 2m intervals
Adaptors not sold
Lowest as minimal tools
required
Minimal as parts clipped
together with connectors
Constantly as there are
gaps in the mesh
N/A
Optical and copper
Easy as there a gaps in the
system
Yes
50mm stock but adjustable
with some effort
90 days to 25 years
See Appendix E
are used and supports
positioned closer together
Possibly a mitre box,
saw, cut out tool, fibre
spreader and slotting tool
1.2 metre intervals
Yes
Higher since more tools
are required and supports
are closer
Minimal as its slotted
together with joints
None
3400 2mm cords
Optical and copper
Easy if cut outs are made
with a cut out tool
Yes
30mm
5 years
See Appendix F
13
 Appendix B

DUCT AND SNAP - ON LID PART NO: TC1279 - Issue 1

ASSEMBLY, 100mm DUCT 23ASN
(See Note)

Note: Add a “G” to the end of the Part No, for the item to be supplied in Noryl Gray coloured plastic material.

Use / Application
The 100 mm duct lid (Part No: TC1279-24SN) is a snap fit onto 100mm straight duct (Part No: TC1279-
23). The lid is quickly and easily fitted and removed from 100mm straight duct, when required. Both the lid
and duct are made of tough Noryl plastic with a non-halogen fire retardant. The duct connects to other duct
sections and various bends, adaptors etc., using either: a standard joiner (Part No: TC1279-27) or a slotless
joiner (Part No: TC1279-248A); which are available separately. A 100mm duct carries up to 400 x 3mm
diameter optical fibre cords to a depth of 50mm, without causing excessive crushing or stress on them. This
is the maximum recommended number of optical fibre cords for 100mm duct.
Features
Cover (Part No: TC 1279-24SN), snaps onto 100mm duct (Part No: TC1279-23); included Clips
straight into joiner Tough, fire retardant material Joiners (Part No: TC1279-25, Telstra: S
353/00514 or TC1279-248A); available separately. Purchase by the unit
Technical Specifications

Dimensions Lid: 115mm (W) x 15mm (H) x 2,000mm (D)

14
 Duct: 120mm (W) x 105mm (H) x 2000mm (D) Weight Lid: 1.1 kg; Duct & Lid: 3.4
kg
Material Fire retardant plastic, Halogen free, UL94-VO rated

Source: (Warren and Brown Catalogue Issue No: 1 – Date: 21/05/2002)

Appendix C

Typical Basket Tray

4" 4" - 24" 10'

105 mm 100 - 600 mm 3m

INCHES MM INCHES MM FEET M LBS KG

CF 105/100 4" 105 4" 100 10' 3 9.0 4.1

CF 105/150 4" 105 6" 150 10' 3 10.2 4.6

CF 105/200 4" 105 8" 200 10' 3 13.4 6.1

CF 105/300 4" 105 12" 300 10' 3 21.2 9.6

15
CF 105/450 4" 105 18" 450 10' 3 25.9 11.8

CF 105/500 4" 105 20" 500 10' 3 27.5 12.5

CF 105/600 4" 105 24" 600 10' 3 30.4 13.8

All trays are offered in the following finishes:

16
Appendix D

17
 Appendix E

Standards that are important in the Cable Tray/ Cabling industry:

• NEC: The National Electrical Code
• CSA: Canadian Standards Association
• NEIS: National Electrical Installation Standards equivalent to NEMA VE1
• NEMA VE1: National Electrical Manufacturers Association (partnered with CSA)
Standard for Metal Cable Tray Systems
• NEMA VE2: National Electrical Manufacturers Association Standard for Cable Tray
Installation Guidelines
• IEC 61537: International Electrotechnical Contractors Standard for Cable Tray
Systems and Cable Ladder Systems for Cable Management
• IEC 60204: International Electrotechnical Contractors Standard for Safety of
Machinery/Electrical Equipment with Machinery
• NFPA 79: National Fire Protection Association's Standard; equivalent to IEC 60204
• NFPA 70: National Fire Protection Association's Standard; equivalent to NEC

18
 Appendix F
GENERIC SPECIFICATION FOR
OPTICAL FIBRE CABLE
DUCTING/TROUGHING SYSTEM

3.1 GENERAL

The technical conditions specified in this document, generally cover the requirements
for an Exchange Optical Fibre Cable Troughing/Ducting System that permits
connection, from the Optical Fibre Distribution Frame (OFDF) to rack mounted
transmission equipment using pigtail or patchcord optical fibre cable.

Optical fibre pigtail cables can be installed in the Troughing System to connect from
the OFDF to transmission equipment.
The Optical Fibre Cable(s) are usually installed at minimum tension by directly placing
them into the Troughing System, rather than hauling them into position.

3.2 TECHNICAL REVIEW OF OPTICAL FIBRE CABLE DUCTING/TROUGHING

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

3.2.1 The prime requirement of a cabling Troughing System taken as a whole is that it
shall allow easy optical fibre cable installation between the OFDF's and
equipment rack, whilst GUARANTEEING THAT UNDER EVERY CONDITION
THAT THE ALLOWABLE VALUE OF MINIMUM BENDING RADIUS (MBR) IS
MAINTAINED, and that a minimum tension, smooth jerk free cable hauling
installation/placement is achieved.

NOTE: The MBR for single/twin fibre pigtails is 30mm.

3.2.2 A modular, complete range of fittings and equipment shall be provided and shall
enable the cabling Troughing System to be installed in both old and new sites so
that trunk and other Optical Fibre Cables can be installed and run in a neat,
organized, logical and efficient manner from OFDF's to equipment racks.

3.2.3 The Troughing System shall be able to be assembled using an approved

mechanical fastening system, rather than gluing or bolting components together.

3.2.4 The Troughing system shall be capable of quick installation in the internal
overhead or sub floor environment, using standard hand tools.

3.2.5 A straight section of the 100, 220 and 300mm Troughing system shall be capable
of supporting a centrally applied 50 kg load, over a span of 2 metres, without
exceeding a deflection of 5 mm mid span, or sustaining any permanent damage.

3.2.6 A rugged, compact, ergonomically designed, hand tool shall be offered, that is
capable of preparing the troughing side, preferably in a single easy operation, for
installing a drop off connection. There must be no sharp edges or corners left
after this operation that could damage a pigtail or cause injury to staff.

19
3.2.7 The Troughing system shall be able to satisfactorily restrain all optical fibre cables
within and shall be provided with an openable cover.

3.2.8 The Troughing system shall be made Halogen Free approved Fire Retardant (FR)
material(s) in accordance with Clause 5, below.

3.2.9 Where opposing bends or elbows of a Troughing system that may be of opposite
direction are installed close together, the pigtail cables MUST NOT be capable of
being strained subsequently, as new pigtail cables are installed or old pigtails
replaced. The minimum bending radius of every pigtail cable of 30 mm MUST be
maintained UNDER EVERY CONDITION.

3.2.10 The system shall provide for full interconnectivity between all sizes from 30 x 30
mm through 50 x 50 mm, 100 x 50mm and 100 x 100 mm to 220 x 100mm and
300 x 100mm.

3.3 GLOSSARY OF TERMS

The following glossary of terms applies for the items of the SPECIFICATION.

3.3.1 ADAPTORS – These enable different width Troughing members to be connected

together e.g. 100 mm to 220 mm wide Troughing.

3.3.2 BENDS – These are Troughing members that enable a change of direction to be
made, whilst the pigtail cable's Minimum Bending Radius of 30 mm is maintained.
They can be 45 or 90 degrees change of direction, right or left or up or down,
either in the horizontal or vertical plane.

3.3.3 BRACKET SYSTEM – A flexible, easily assembled mounting system for securing
the Troughing members at the required elevation and change of directions and
heights, above superstructure or sub-floor.

3.3.4 BRIGHT COLOUR – A highly visible yellow colour is required for the Troughing
system to distinguish the pigtail cable Troughing system from all other cable
distribution systems.

3.3.5 RANGE OF FITTINGS – All items and components of a Troughing system, some
supplied in stand - alone modular kits that permit installation of a complete
Troughing system in new or existing Exchanges/Sites.

3.3.6 COVERS – A cover system for the Troughing system over the ducts, typically
provided on straight sections that permits installation and removal of pigtails, and
affords installed pigtails protection from accidental mechanical damage.

3.3.7 DROP OFFS – The Troughing system components that feed the individual
optical fibre pigtails, under controlled conditions, from the overhead duct or
troughing down the rack's cable conduit and permit the pigtails flowing at the
Minimum Bending Radius of 30 mm to connect to transmission equipment. These
members shall have a smooth internal surface.
3.3.8 DROP OFF ASSEMBLY HAND TOOL – A compact, portable, lightweight,
ergonomically designed hand tool that is capable of making a connection, typically
by cutting an aperture, in the side of a straight Troughing member, for installation
of a DROP OFF in a quick, neat, effective manner.

3.3.9 DUCT – See TROUGHING

3.3.10 ELBOW – See BEND – A 45 or 90° change of direction member that guides the
pigtail at the Minimum Bending Radius, in a left or right hand change of direction,
usually in the horizontal plane.

3.11 FLEXIBLE CONNECTION – A feature of a Troughing member, usually provided

in DROP-OFFS that permits optical fibre pigtail cable flow to occur under
controlled conditions.

3.3.12 FIRE RETARDANT (FR) – The requirements of this specification fittings and
equipment to prevent and retard the start and spread of flames and fire, and the
generation of corrosive or toxic combustion products.

3.3.13 JOINING SYSTEM – A simple, effective, reliable, quick method of assembling

Troughing system components together, to form a mechanically strong
connection, with a smooth surface between adjacent members, that can be
quickly re-made many times if required.

3.3.14 MINIMUM BENDING RADIUS (MBR) – The fundamentally important requirement

of the Troughing system that under every possible condition the pigtails are
flowing at the allowable value of MINIMUM BENDING RADIUS of 30 mm.

3.3.15 OPTICAL FIBRE DISTRIBUTION FRAME (OFDF) – A modular rack mounted

optical fibre cable termination system, where the external cable is fusion spliced
to individual pigtails, allowing a high density of terminated optical fibres to be
achieved.

3.3.16 OPTICAL FIBRE PATHWAY – The guidance provided by an installed, complete

Troughing system as pigtails flow from the OFDF to equipment racks either
straight or at the MBR.

3.3.17 PATCHCORD – A single pigtail style optical fibre cable, fitted with a connector at
both ends that connects from the OFDF patching field to transmission equipment.
It has a tough sheath that provides mechanical protection.

3.3.18 PIGTAIL – A single style optical fibre cable, fitted with a connector at one end that
is used to connect the external optical fibre cable from the OFDF to transmission
equipment. It has a tough sheath that provides mechanical protection.
3.3.19 RACK – A piece of hardware, usually made of steel members, with sheet metal
sides that houses transmission equipment or OFDF subrack modules.

3.3.20 RACK DUCT – An optical fibre pigtail guiding member, that has slotted cable
exits, and guides the pigtail vertically down the rack from the overhead
Troughing's DROP-OFF'S flexible member and permits connection to
transmission equipment, whilst guiding the pigtail through the MBR.

3.3.21 RETRO-FIT – The act of installing an optical fibre cable troughing system into an
existing building site, that may already have an optical fibre installation.

3.3.22 STANDARD HAND TOOLS – Simple construction mechanical tools such as

spanners, screwdrivers etc. that do not require specialist training to use
effectively.

3.3.23 STRAIGHT SECTION – A straight section of optical fibre Troughing that can be
easily and quickly joined to other system components, typically up to 2 metres
long.

3.3.24 TEE PIECE – A split or divided section, that permits pigtails to change direction
through 90° at the MBR, in a horizontal plane.

3.3.25 TROUGHING – The guiding space provided from individual member(s) for pigtails
as they flow from the OFDF to equipment racks.

3.4. OPTICAL FIBRE TROUGHING/DUCTING SYSTEM – TECHNICAL

CONDITIONS

The following technical conditions shall apply. The optical fibre ducting system shall:-

3.4.1 Maintain a minimum bend radius of 30 mm, under all conditions.

3.4.2 Provide strain relief for optical fibres housed therein.

3.4.3 Be simple to erect, using standard hand tools, in overhead and sub floor
environment.

NOTE: A special hand tool may be required to install drop offs.

3.4.4 Must be fire retardant in accordance with Clause 3.5.

3.4.5 Include a complete range of fittings to suit all requirements:-

(a) Tee Pieces

(b) Elbows - 90°, horizontal and vertical

(c) Centring devices left and right hand

(d) Straight sections 30 x 30 mm, 50 x 50 mm

 (e) Adaptors 30 x 30 mm, 50 x 50 mm, 100 x 50 mm, 220 x 100 & 300 x
100 mm.

(f) Flexible rack drop off connections

(g) Rack ducts 30 x 30 mm, 50 x 50 mm, 100 x 50 mm, and 100 x 100 mm of similar construction to 3.4.5 (d) but slotted every 150
mm.

NOTE: Each duct item is to maintain the Minimum Bending Radius of 30 mm at each fibre exit point.

Have duct size dimensions of:-

30 x 30 mm
50 x 50 mm
100 x 50 mm
100 x 100 mm
220 x 100 mm
300 x 100 mm – 2 metre lengths

3.4.6 Required is a complete bracket system, to mount the Troughing, at a flexible

height, above the ceiling tie bars. Each kit shall consist of a threaded corrosion
protected rod 12 mm diameter x 0.8 metres long, complete with 4 nuts per rod
and 4 flat washers.

3.4.7 Be such that additional drop-offs shall be easy to install, using the special hand
tool i.e. retrofit rack drop off location positions, fully flexible anywhere along the
Troughing. Minimum centres 90 mm, typical 600 mm.

3.4.8 Include bends and drop offs, which shall be provided with dividers, for through
pigtail flow.

3.4.9 Be easy and quick to extend, re-arrange and divert, using a simple mechanical
fastening system, rather than gluing or bolting.

3.4.10 Be of an approved corrosion proof, long life design (typically 15 years) with
respect to all components offered and supplied.

3.4.11 Be of a bright yellow colour for ease of identification.

3.4.12 Comply with all Occupational Health and Safety, requirements and use
Environmental friendly material(s).

3.4.13 Provide Modular kits for drop offs, bends, OFDF entry(s) etc. i.e. each kit for drop
offs etc. shall include all necessary parts such as fixing components, labels,
installation instructions, etc.

3.4.14 Be mechanically strong for the overhead environment – capable of supporting a

centrally applied 50 kg load, over a 2 metre span, without failing, or excessive
deflection, greater than 5 mm, occurring (100 x 100 mm, 220 mm x 100 mm &
300 mm x 100mm sections).
However, it is recommended that Lightpaths Ducting be supported every 900mm maximum
spacing on a straight run; with more support for corners, offsets, etc. See Section 4.0
3.4.15 Have covers over the ducting.

3.4.16 Have a fully openable style of Troughing to ensure cable placement, rather than
hauling.

3.4.17 Be clearly labelled on the sides of the ducting in 25 mm high black capital
lettering, repeated every 1.5 metres, with "OPTICAL FIBRE PIGTAIL
TROUGHING DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM".

3.5 FIRE RETARDANT (FR) REQUIREMENTS

3.5.1 Selection of Fire Retarded Materials

3.5.1.1 Polymeric materials shall be Halogen Free Fire retardant materials, which meet the
following requirements:

TEST REFERENCE
TEST CRITERIA OR METHOD

+ Minimum Oxygen Not less than 34 AS2122.1 –

Concentration 1978

(%) (May also be referred If less, the actual

to as the Limiting Oxygen value should be
Index). stated.

+ Smoke Emission 0.98 SAA INT 88002

Standard Absorbency, Ao (Proposed as
100mm specimen width. AS1660.5.2)

+ Acid and Corrosive Gas SAA INT 88003

Emission (Proposed as
(a) pH minimum 3.5 AS1660.5.4)
(b) Conductivity 100
maximum
(us/cm)

3.5.1.2 Combustion Test on Completed Troughing System

Samples prepared and tested in accordance with the following procedures

shall not burn for a distance of more than 50 mm and burning shall have
ceased within 180 seconds of removal of the igniter flame, when the gases
flowing up the tube contain not less than 28% oxygen.

(a) Preparation of specimens.

The sample, cut from the completed Troughing system shall be approximately
100 mm long, 7 + 1 mm wide and the thickness of the item.
Test Method.

The description and calibration of the equipment for conducting this test is contained in
AS2122.1. A suitable apparatus is the "Critical Oxygen Index Flammability Tester" by
Stanton – Redcroft. Other apparatus may be used but must give similar results. The
temperature of gases flowing up the chimney shall be 23 + or – 2 degrees Celsius at the
commencement of each test. Clamp the specimen vertically in the centre of the glass
column with the top of the specimen at least 100 mm below the top of the open column.

Initially, set the concentration of gases flowing up the column to a minimum of 28%
oxygen. The gas flow rate in the column shall be 40 + or – 10 mm/second calculated at
the standard temperature (O° Celsius) and pressure (760 mm Hg) from a total flow of
gas (cubic mm/second) divided by the cross sectional area of the column (square mm).
Allow the gas to purge for at least 30 seconds. Ignite the top of the specimen for 10
seconds with soft yellow flame issuing from an orifice of 2 mm + 1 mm diameter at the
end of a tube. The flame fuel shall be LPG and the supply adjusted so that the flame
projects approximately 10 mm vertically from the orifice when the tube end is vertical
with the chimney and the flame is burning within the chimney atmosphere.

To meet the specification requirements the burning shall have ceased within 180
seconds after removal of the igniter, and the total burnt length including that initially burnt
by the igniter shall not exceed further than 50 mm from the top end of the specimen. In
the event of the first specimen failing the test, two further specimens from the same
sample shall be tested and both shall pass for the material to be accepted.

In case of dispute, the actual minimum oxygen concentration for flame propagation shall
be determined according to AS2212.2 using Type A specimens cut from the troughing
and the thickness shall be the thickness of the troughing

Source: (Warren and Brown Catalogue Issue No: 1 – Date: 21/05/2002)