What does a loose-tube fiber optic cable primarily protect against?

A loose-tube fiber optic cable is primarily designed to protect against bending stresses. This type of cable features fibers that are housed within a protective tube that is not tightly bound to the fiber itself. This allows the fibers to move slightly within the tube, reducing the risk of damage when the cable is subjected to bending or twisting.

This design is especially beneficial in environments where installations may involve cornering or routing around obstacles, as it minimizes the risk of breakage or loss of signal quality due to excessive strain on the fibers. The construction of loose-tube cables makes them suitable for outdoor installations where conditions could lead to unpredictable stresses on the cabling.

While other options mention high temperatures, water intrusion, and electrical interference, these are typically addressed through different means in fiber optic designs, such as using appropriate materials and protective sheathing, rather than the specific structural design of loose-tube cables.