Cladding refers to an outer layer applied to a material for protection or performance. In fiber optics, it surrounds the fiber core to keep light signals contained, while in metal applications, it bonds one metal layer to another to enhance strength or conductivity.
In fiber optic cable design, cladding is the layer of glass or plastic that surrounds the fiber core, ensuring that light signals remain confined through total internal reflection. The cladding has a slightly lower refractive index than the core, which allows light to bounce within the fiber instead of escaping, maintaining signal integrity across long distances. This layer is then covered by a protective coating that prevents physical and environmental damage during handling or manufacturing.
In metal applications, cladding is the process of bonding or welding a thin layer of one metal to another, combining beneficial properties of both materials. For example, copper-clad steel (CCS) conductors feature a steel core with a copper outer layer, offering both high tensile strength and electrical conductivity. This process is used in cable manufacturing for industrial and communication systems that require durability and consistent performance.
Fiber optic cladding is standardized by the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Metal cladding methods and materials are often referenced by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and ASTM International.
Cladding technology in fiber optics was developed in the mid-20th century to improve signal transmission efficiency and reduce light loss. Metal cladding, by contrast, has been used for over a century in electrical manufacturing as a way to strengthen conductors and reduce material costs while maintaining high conductivity.