Fibre Optic Cables for High-Speed Data Transmission

Yes. Standard office-grade fibre cables are not designed for continuous motion and can fail quickly in dynamic systems. igus’ motion-rated fibre optic cables are specially engineered with optimised fibre structures, strain-relief elements, and flexible jackets to withstand repeated bending and torsion in applications such as cable carriers, robotic arms, and linear axes.

chainflex® cables come with a UL-verified guarantee of up to 4-year service life. This guarantee is based on testing in the world’s largest cable test lab of its kind, where cables undergo up to 2 billion cycles annually.

igus offers free online tools including a service life calculator and cable configurator. These help you select the right cable and predict its performance in your specific application.

Fibre optic cables are used to transmit data using light signals rather than electrical current. In industrial environments, they are commonly used for machine communication, automation systems, robotics, vision systems, and network infrastructure. They offer very high data rates, long transmission distances, and excellent resistance to electrical noise, making them ideal for industrial applications.

Single-mode fibre uses a very small core and is designed for long-distance transmission with minimal signal loss. It is typically used in large plants, outdoor installations, and backbone networks. Multi-mode fibre has a larger core and is more suitable for shorter distances, such as within machines or production lines. Multi-mode solutions are generally more cost-effective for local networks.

Yes. Our fibre optic cables are specifically designed and tested for use in e-chain systems. They feature optimised lay lengths, low-friction jackets, and stable fibre positioning to ensure smooth movement and long service life in continuous flexing applications.

The minimum bend radius is the smallest radius a cable can be bent without risking damage or signal loss. This value depends on the cable design, fibre type, and construction. Exceeding the recommended bend radius can cause micro-bending and fibre fractures. Always follow the specifications in the product datasheet and ensure proper routing during installation.

Yes. Excessive or repeated bending beyond the specified limits can cause attenuation, reflection, and data transmission errors. Over time, this may lead to network instability or failure. Proper cable routing, correct e-chain sizing, and strain relief help maintain stable signal quality throughout the service life.

Our fibre optic cables support a wide range of industrial communication standards and high-speed Ethernet protocols. Depending on the fibre type and connector system, they can support data rates from standard industrial networks up to multi-gigabit transmission for camera systems, real-time control, and data-intensive applications.

Yes. Because fibre transmits data using light rather than copper, it is completely immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI), radio frequency interference (RFI), and ground loops. This makes fibre especially suitable for use near motors, drives, welding equipment, and high-voltage systems.

A fibre optic cable is a type of communication cable that carries data using light instead of electricity. It contains very thin strands of glass or plastic fibres that transmit light pulses over long distances with extremely high speed and very low signal loss.

They consist of:

• Core: ultra‑pure glass or plastic that carries light
• Cladding: reflective material that keeps light inside the core
• Buffer/coating: protective layers around the fibre
• Outer jacket: tough external layer for durability

Yes. We offer factory‑terminated fibre optic cable assemblies with professionally polished and tested connectors from brands like Siemens, Beckhoff, Allen Bradley, and SEW, ready for plug‑and‑play installation. These assemblies reduce installation time, eliminate termination errors, and ensure consistent optical performance. Each assembly is tested for insertion loss and signal quality before delivery.

Yes. Many of our fibre optic cables are designed for industrial environments and feature jackets that resist oil, chemicals, abrasion, moisture, and UV radiation. Certain designs are also suitable for cleanrooms, food-processing environments, or outdoor installations. Always consult the technical data for specific environmental ratings.

They transmit data as pulses of light that travel through thin glass fibres. The light bounces internally (total internal reflection), allowing it to move long distances with very little signal loss.

They are used for:

• Broadband internet
• Telecom networks
• Medical imaging (endoscopes)
• Industrial sensors
• Military and aerospace communication
• Undersea data cables

Selecting the right cable involves evaluating movement type, installation space, transmission distance, environmental exposure, data speed requirements, and connector compatibility. Our engineers can support you with application analysis, product selection, and testing to ensure optimal performance and cost efficiency.

We support common industrial and network connector types such as LC, SC, and ST. Depending on the application, we also offer ruggedised and sealed connector solutions for environments with vibration, dust, or moisture. Custom connector configurations are available on request.

Service life depends on factors such as bend radius, travel distance, speed, load, and environmental conditions. When properly selected and installed, motion-rated fibre-optic cables can operate reliably for many years and millions of bending cycles. Application analysis helps maximise service life.

Calculate the service life of a cable here.

Partly. The glass fibre itself is difficult to recycle, but:

• The plastic jacket
• Connectors
• Metal components

can be recycled.

Data is converted into light pulses by a laser or LED. Each pulse represents binary data (1s and 0s). The light travels through the fibre core and is interpreted as digital information at the receiving end.