ADSS Cable Price Factors: What Affects Cost & How to Choose the Best Value Cable

■ ADSS Cable Price Factors - What influences the price range of ADSS cables? 

Should you be a buyer or a procurement officer in the telecom or power utility sector, it is important to know what contributes to the cost of ADSS (All-Dielectric Self-Supporting) fiber optic cable. This guide breaks down the main factors in a question-and-answer format, allowing one to select an affordable solution that delivers the highest quality.

■ What are the determining criteria for setting the price of the ADSS cable machinery?

ADSS cable cost may be determined by the following factors, among others: 

1. Number of Fibers (Core Count) – More fibers = higher cost. 

2. Sheath Type – Consequently, the price of an anti-tracking sheath (typically referred to as AT) is higher than that of a standard PE one. 

3. Installation Span and Mechanical Strength – It is noticeable that there is a need for cables with stronger structures for long spans. 

4. Voltage Level of Power Lines – It is only in AT sheath where high-voltage lines are needed. 

5. Accessories & Matching Hardware – Suspension, tension sets, etc. 

6. Certifications and Standards – Certification of the product requires it to be of a premium price category. 

7. Origin and Region – The price may differ for the various countries since it depends on labor, materials, and taxes.

■ How does fiber count affect ADSS cable cost?

Fiber count, as a volume, directly determines material cost, cable diameter, and packaging.

■ What’s the difference between PE and AT sheaths, and how do they affect pricing? 

The outer sheath protects the cable against environmental factors and electrical stresses: 

Additional UV additives screen them from long-lasting sun irradiation, essential in desert and tropical habitats. UV shield compounds are not so expensive, but the benefits of prolonged cable lifespan and low maintenance in terms of restoration offset those costs.

■ What are the ways in which different operating conditions affect ADSS cables pricing?

Different terrains and use-cases require different mechanical properties: 

• Urban installations: Shorter spans, minimal tension = cheaper designs 

• Remote forest areas: Shorter spans, with exposure to more UV, = middle range pricing 

• Long spans over rivers/high mountains: Long spans, with high winds = higher strength ratings = higher cost 

Example: 24-core ADSS cable for urban use might cost $180/km, while a long-span version (same fiber count) may cost $300/km or more due to added strength members and dual sheathing.

■ Are the accessories a big part of ADSS total cost? 

Initially, the cost of the accessories will stand at 10-25% of the overall project cost. Some key components could be comprised of: 

• Suspension clamps. 

• Tension clamps. 

• Vibration dampers. 

• Termination boxes or joint closures. 

Procurement Tip: Always negotiating for the purchase of pipeline accessories with cables from the same manufacturer will reduce the cost and increase the compatibility. Purchasing in bulk from one source may lower the price due to volume and ensure compatibility.

■ Does the price of ADSS cable vary from one region to another? 

Yes. The regional price differences can be attributed to: 

• Labor and raw material costs 

• Shipping and duties 

• Local standards

■ What is the role of span length in ADSS cable design and price?

The span length has a direct relation to the cable strength and design:

Example: A 350m span crossing requires reinforced tension strength and adds 20–30% to cost.

■ How do voltage levels affect the choice and cost of ADSS cables?

A: 

• <35kV lines: PE sheath is usually sufficient 

• 35–110kV lines: AT sheath is recommended to prevent tracking 

• 110kV: AT + complex electric field calculation would be required

Price Impact: 

• 24-core PE cable (<35kV): ~$200/km 

• 24-core AT cable (66kV): ~$270/km 

• 24-core dual sheath for 110kV+: ~$320+/km

■ What certifications should reliable ADSS cables have?

A: Key certifications include:

Always request:

• Type test reports

• Span tension calculations

• Factory inspection certificates

■ What’s the difference between OEM and brand-name ADSS cables in pricing and quality?

Tip: Verified OEMs with IEC certification offer excellent value.

■ What documents should buyers request before confirming an order?

Technical: 

• Cable datasheet with drawing. 

• Span calculation report. 

• Optical/mechanical spec sheet. 

Certifications: 

• Type test reports. 

• RoHS/IEC/IEEE documentation. 

Commercial: 

• PI with Incoterms. 

• Lead time & payment terms. 

• Packing method (wooden drums, reel length).

■ Are ADSS suppliers also value-added service providers? 

A: A reliable supplier of ADSS cables may also bring you some value-added services, which are: 

• Span design assistance. 

• Accessory matching lists. 

• Custom drum packaging. 

• Online/video inspections. 

• On-site/remote technical support. 

These services increase the installation probability and lower the overall cost of operation in the long term.

■ Is there a relationship between the structure of the cable and ADSS price? 

Fiber Count 

More fibers = higher cost. 

Loose Tube Design 

PBT tubes filled with gel. 

Higher tube count = more cost. 

Strength Member 

Aramid yarn for tension. 

FRP for anti-buckling (adds cost). 

Water Blocking 

Gel or dry tapes inside the core. 

Outer Sheath 

PE (basic), AT (high-voltage), Dual (harsh terrain). 

■ Final Tips for Procurement Teams

• Select the right core for your need with the right structure. 

• Request for the detailed technical drawings as well as certifications. 

• When placing the order, make sure that the accessories you will need are in the right place to reduce the risk. 

• Suppliers with engineering support can enhance project return on investment (ROI). 

• Apart from the above-mentioned services, many manufacturers provide free design consultation, based on the map of the project and the span requirements.

If you want to get the appropriate types and prices of ADSS cables for your project, the matter will be approached by our team in a personalized way.

James is a technical manager and associate at Zion Communication. 

Specializes in Optical Fiber communications,  FTTH Solutions, 

Fiber optic cables,  ADSS cable, and ODN networks.

james@zion-communication.com

+86 13777460328

ADSS Installation Guide

ADSS Fiber Optic Cable Technical Q&A Checklist

ADSS Cable vs. OPGW Cable- Key Differences and Applications Explained

How to Select the Right ADSS Cable for Your Project | ADSS Fiber Cable Selection Guide

ADSS Fiber Optic Cable Specifications Explained | Structure, Performance & Parameters

ADSS Cable Price Factors: What Affects Cost & How to Choose the Best Value Cable