Prysmian, world leader in the energy and telecom cable systems industry, announces the launch of its revolutionary Sirocco Extreme 864f microduct cable, setting a new standard for innovation in the field. This groundbreaking cable showcases world-record diameters and fibre densities for blown microduct cables.

Sirocco Extreme 864f microduct cable features an impressive 864 fibres within a 9.8mm diameter, providing an unparalleled fibre density of 11.5 fibres per mm2. It is installable into a 12mm duct, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the telecom cable systems industry. Prysmian’s Sirocco Extreme microduct cables employ the state-of-the-art BendBrightXS 180µm single-mode (ITU-T G.657.D, G.657.A2) bend-insensitive fibre, ensuring compatibility with existing G.652 fibres and readiness for evolved systems.

“Microduct cables have become a popular choice for future-fit applications, such as long haul Datacentre interconnection, metro and FTTx networks. They enable rapid deployment and provide future proof scalability, and their small footprint also provides sustainability benefits, due to the use of less raw materials. Sirocco Extreme microduct cables offer the best available dimensions on the market as they utilize Prysmian’s BendBrightXS 180µm single-mode bend insensitive fibre, the only true 180µm fibre available on the market today.” said Ian Griffiths, Global R&D VP, Telecom Business at Prysmian. “The extreme fibre count and reduced diameter of the Sirocco Extreme microduct cables make installation faster and more cost effective.”

Available in fibre counts ranging from 96 to 864 and conforming to international standards for optical and mechanical performance, the Sirocco Extreme cables incorporate Prysmian’s PicoTube technology, making them up to 25% smaller than previously available microduct cables. This makes it possible to install more fibres into congested duct space and enables the use of smaller ducts for new installations, resulting in lower installation costs and the use of less raw materials.

Prysmian’s Sirocco Extreme microduct cables not only provide cost savings to telecom network owners and builders but also enable them to reduce carbon and environmental footprints. By offering reduced diameters and increased fibre densities, Prysmian goes beyond its value chain and continues to demonstrate its commitment to environmentally conscious solutions that avoid emissions.

The Sirocco Extreme product enhancements demonstrates the Group's dedication to responding to evolving market needs, offering a scalable solution that is high-density, physically compact, and easily deployable for future-fit solutions.

Telstra and Prysmian today announced an expansion to Prysmian optical cable manufacturing plant in Australia, to build the industry-leading fibre optic cable required for Telstra’s intercity fibre network, with advanced technology that aims to reduce the environmental impact of the project.

Telstra InfraCo is building the intercity fibre network in response to the ever-growing demands for fast and capable digital networks.

““The intercity fibre network project will future-proof Australia’s connectivity needs for the next 20+ years. We have already laid hundreds of kilometres of cables across the country and have commenced planning on several new fibre routes that will see all mainland capital cities connected,” said Brendon Riley, Telstra InfraCo CEO.

““The expansion of Prysmian’s optical cable production lines, located in Dee Why in New South Wales, will be integral to the intercity fibre project. Not only is this an investment in our nation’s growth, connectivity and digital prosperity, but the design of our network is uniquely Australian, with the cable adapted to be more resilient to our sometimes harsh conditions.”

Prysmian, a key partner in the project, has invested into Australian-based fibre optic cable manufacturing technology that will enhance and increase the production of locally-made state-of-the-art cable for Telstra’s intercity fibre network.

““This significant investment into Australian-based skills, R&D, and manufacturing is the result of two years of collaborative research and development. Together with Telstra, we have designed a world leading fibre optic cable that will support the current and future demand for high capacity, low-latency fibre networks in Australia,” ” ,” said Frederick Persson, Executive Vice President Digital Solutions at Prysmian.

Sustainability has continued to be a critical focus in the development of the manufacturing technology. The new fibre optic cable is 59% smaller and 54% lighter than the previous design employed across Telstra’s existing fibre network. The reduced size and weight avoid CO₂ during cable production and transportation which is estimated to be approximately 35,000 tonnes over the length of the project.

To support the rollout of this large project, Prysmian has invested in three key areas of production to significantly increase the capacity of the Dee Why based facility.

“Telstra and Prysmian have a long history of working together to deliver industry-leading technology for Australians. These investments are essential as we deliver next generation digital infrastructure for the country as demand for connectivity continues to soar,” said Mr Riley.