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The History of Fiber Optic Blowing Machines

The first blowing machines appeared in the 80s, when the growing demand for fast and reliable telecommunications connections forced the search for new methods of cable installation. Traditional methods, such as manual pulling of cables, were time-consuming and risky for delicate optical fibers. Blowing cables with compressed air turned out to be a revolutionary solution that significantly sped up and simplified the installation process.

Invention of the blown fiber technology (1982)

  • "British Telecom” introduced the method of blowing fibers with a stream of compressed air, eliminating the problem of increasing friction (Capstan effect) plumettaz.com.
  • Willem Griffioen (PTT Netherlands) developed the first prototypes of cable blowing machines, using lubricants and seals for longer lengths Polywater.

Commercialization in the 90s

  • Pneumatic blowers became the industry standard. They allowed for blowing cables over distances of up to several hundred meters. This was a major step forward.
  • The first commercial blowing machines appeared ("CableJet™”, etc.) and the growing demand for fast FTTH network installations.

Digital Age and Automation (21st Century)

  • Beginning of the 21st century: The first electric blowing machines were introduced, which offered greater precision and control over the blowing process. However, these machines were heavy and expensive.
  • 2010s: The development of battery technology and miniaturization has allowed the creation of lighter and more mobile blowers dedicated to installation in buildings.
  • 2016: Premiere of the MULTITANK system with an electric drive that revolutionized fiber optic installations, enabling work at distances of up to 1 km
  • Currently: Nowadays, TERMA devices can be equipped with electronic process recorders, GPS and PDF reporting. termafiber.pl allowing for reporting of each blown section. The standard is automatic stopping when the set optical fiber pushing force is reached in MultiTank whether automatic drive break in FTTHOne.

Latest trends and the future

  • Automation: More and more blowing machines are equipped with automatic control systems that minimize the risk of human errors.
  • IoT integration: Blowers of the future will be able to communicate with other devices via the Internet of Things, which will enable remote monitoring and management of the installation process.
  • Ecology: The growing demand for energy-saving solutions is leading to the development of electric blowing machines that reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions.

The history of blowing machines is a history of continuous improvement and adaptation to the growing requirements of the telecommunications market. Thanks to this, installers can now use advanced, precise and reliable machines that significantly facilitate their work.

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