Fiber Optic Cables: Which one do you need, Gel-Free or Dry Core?

In general, most loose tube fiber optic cables are available in either Dry-Core (DriKore®) or Gel-Free (EzKore®) constructions. To choose the cable that is right for you, it is essential to understand its features and benefits. In the past, Gel was used inside buffer tubes to protect the fibers against moisture. Today, Gel has been replaced with an incredibly absorbent powder and water-swellable yarn that completely blocks water ingress.

How are they different? 

The core difference between an EzKore® and a DriKore® cable construction is the method utilized, by each cable, to block moisture from reaching the optical fibers located inside the buffer tubes. DriKore® cables consist of a flooding compound that is inserted inside its buffer tube(s), acting as a physical barrier to prevent water ingress. Whereas the Gel-Free Cable contains water-swellable yarns inside its buffer tube(s) that enlarge when they come in contact with water, successfully blocking any water from seeping through the cable.

EzKore® Cable Benefits

• Faster Preparation & Installation
• Eliminates the need to use solvents to clean the optical fiber before splicing them.
• No More Grease
• Eliminates the need to clean out the gel when accessing the fiber.
• Lighter  Weight Cables
• No More Cleaning Consumables

“The great news is that we currently have an inventory of EzKore® and DriKore®  ADSS cables in stock:”

• 6, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 96 SM ITU-T G.652D
• Loose Tube
• Dielectric Central Member
• Gel-Free & Dry-Core ADSS
• Single PE Jacket.