EPFU Micro Air Blown Fiber Optic Cable Fiber Unit

EPFU (Enhanced Performance Fibre Unit) is a single-unit product containing typically 2–12 fibers, while standard air-blown cables (like GYFY or center tube) are complete multi-fiber cables. EPFU is designed for staged deployment: install a multi-duct bundle (e.g., 5–7 micro-ducts) once, then blow additional EPFUs as subscriber demand grows — paying only for the capacity you need, when you need it. Each EPFU costs less upfront than a full multi-core cable, and the staged investment model is particularly attractive for FTTH greenfield deployments where take-up rates are uncertain.

Standard micro-duct bundles contain 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, or 12 ducts per bundle, with each duct having 10/12 mm or 12/14 mm inner diameter. After initial installation of one EPFU in each primary duct, additional EPFUs can typically be blown into already-occupied ducts (sequential blowing) up to 4–6 EPFUs per duct before duct fill ratio becomes a limiting factor. The exact number depends on EPFU outer diameter (typically 1.5–3.0 mm) and duct inner diameter. ZTO can advise on the optimal duct count and EPFU diameter for your subscriber density forecast.

Standard EPFU configurations support 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12 fibers per unit using G.657A2 bend-insensitive fiber. For higher per-unit capacity, 24-core EPFUs are available on special request. Most FTTH deployments use 2-core or 4-core EPFUs (one for primary service, one spare for redundancy or future upgrade). The G.657A2 fiber with 7.5mm minimum bend radius allows EPFU to be routed through tight indoor corners during final drop installation, eliminating the need for a separate indoor cable.

Single-blow distances of 1,000–2,000 m are typical for straight duct routes. For access network routes with multiple bends, expect 500–1,200 m per blow. The low-friction sheath design reduces air resistance and extends blowing distance by 20–40% compared to standard jacket designs. Blowing equipment operates at 8–12 bar pressure, and the small EPFU diameter (1.5–3.0 mm) requires lower air volume per meter of cable, which translates to faster installation speed and lower energy cost for large-scale deployments.

Yes. EPFU with G.657A2 fiber and LSZH jacket is fully compliant for indoor FTTH drop applications. The ultra-thin profile (1.5–3.0 mm diameter) fits standard indoor conduit, surface-mount raceways, and even direct-bend routing around door frames. Compliance with YD/T 769-2010, GB/T 9771-2008, IEC 794, and fire safety standards (IEC 60332-1 or IEC 60332-3C for LSZH versions) makes EPFU suitable for routing from the building entry point through risers and corridors directly to the subscriber’s ONT. Many European FTTH operators prefer EPFU over traditional indoor drop cables for its compact size and installation flexibility.