Armoring refers to the process of adding a protective layer to fiber optic cables to increase their durability and resistance to external stresses such as crushing, impact, and abrasion. The type of armor used can have an impact on the flexibility of the cable.
Armored fiber optic cables typically have a layer of metal or plastic armor around the outside of the cable. Metal armor, such as corrugated steel, provides excellent protection but can be quite rigid and may limit the flexibility of the cable. Plastic armor, on the other hand, is generally more flexible and can help maintain the cable's flexibility while still providing a degree of protection.
In some cases, armored fiber optic cables may include a flexible metal conduit or a spiral-wrapped metal tape for added protection. While these types of armor provide excellent protection, they can also significantly reduce the flexibility of the cable.
It's worth noting that the flexibility of fiber optic cables is also influenced by other factors, such as the tightness of the cable's bend radius and the quality of the cable's materials and construction. When selecting an armored fiber optic cable, it's important to consider the specific application and the level of protection required, as well as the desired level of flexibility.
