Loose tube cables are the product of choice as the backbone in Outside Plant (OSP) applications. Loose tube self support cables are designed for use in aerial applications as an aLoose Tubeernative to lashing. These cables reduce installation time and costs. Superior Essex offers self support cables for spans up to 700 feet. The loose tube design offers reliable transmission performance over a broad temperature range. Optical bers are placed inside lled buffer tubes containing PFM gel. The core is constructed by stranding the buffer tubes around a central member using a reverse oscillating lay (ROL). The core is wrapped with exible strength members covered with a water-blocking tape then encased with a black polyethylene inner jacket. Water-blocking yarns and a corrugated steel armor are applied and a black outer jacket with an integrated EHS steel messenger completes the cable construction. Rip cords are included under the armor and inner jacket for ease of entry.