A strength member is included in a cable configuration for the purpose of adding tensile strength only, and does not conduct any power or signal.
A strength member is a non-conductive or non-signal-carrying element incorporated into a cable to provide tensile strength. Its sole purpose is to bear mechanical load, allowing the cable to withstand pulling and tension without stressing the conductors or fibers it protects. Strength members are made from materials such as aramid fibers, steel, or fiberglass, chosen for high strength relative to weight.
By carrying the mechanical load, a strength member protects the fragile elements of a cable, such as optical fibers, from the tension applied during installation and service. This is especially important in fiber optic and lightweight cable, where the signal-carrying elements have little tensile strength of their own.
In commercial and industrial cable, strength members enable durable constructions that withstand pulling and handling. Recognizing the element helps in understanding how cable achieves tensile strength.
Because carrying the mechanical load protects the fragile elements of a cable from the tension applied during installation and service, a strength member is especially important in fiber optic and lightweight cable, where the signal-carrying elements have little tensile strength of their own.
Recognizing how a strength member carries tensile load helps illustrate the engineering behind durable cable, since the element bears pulling forces so that fragile fibers and conductors are protected during installation and service.
At Windy City Wire, an understanding of cable constructions, including strength members, reflects a focus on matching cable to its application. Recognizing how a strength member carries tensile load helps illustrate the engineering behind durable cable.