by Mats Jellback, Jetting AB | 16 Oct 2025
When building a modern fiber network, efficiency, precision, and long-term reliability are key. Yet, more than 85% of projects in the U.S. still rely on traditional cable pulling — often using heavy legacy equipment or even manual labor.
Pulling works, but it’s slow, labor-intensive, and puts unnecessary strain on the cable.
Professional installers worldwide are now turning to fiber blowing (and in some cases floating) — the modern method that saves both time and money.
With air blowing, a two-person crew can install up to 10,000 feet of cable in under an hour — a job that could take a team of 10 to 15 people several days if done by pulling.
Speed – A professional blowing machine can install hundreds or even thousands of feet per hour.
Fewer people needed – One trained operator can handle the process safely and efficiently.
Less cable damage – Controlled pushing force and air or water transport protect the fragile fiber.
Longer installation lengths – Air or floating methods make it possible to reach distances that are impossible by hand.
Reduced total cost – Shorter installation time, fewer workers, and minimized cable waste all mean lower project costs.
Future-proof network – The duct remains clean, round, and ready for future upgrades or additional fibers.
A Jetting machine uses compressed air to propel the fiber cable through the duct while applying steady mechanical push. This method delivers faster installs, reduces strain on the cable, and allows for much longer distances than traditional pulling.
With air blowing, just two operators can install up to 10,000 feet of cable in under an hour — a task that might take a 10–15 person crew several days when pulling.
Every Jetting machine is engineered specifically for professional fiber blowing. The compact units designed for FTTx and FTTH — like TriggAIR and the V0 Series — run on electric motors, while the larger systems — V2, V3, and V4 Grizzon — are powered by compressed air.
In floating installations, water is connected to the machine’s air inlet and used to carry the cable through the duct. The motors still run on compressed air, but the actual installation is done entirely with water. This significantly lowers friction and helps the cable move smoothly — even through tight or slightly deformed ducts — allowing for long, demanding runs of up to 33,000 feet in a single shot.
Jetting’s V2, V3, and V4 can all be equipped for floating. Converting the machine takes roughly one minute.
Depending on the project, air blowing or floating methods can be used — both supported by Jetting’s range of machines. For example:
Air blowing is ideal for standard fiber installations.
Floating enables extremely long distances or installations in challenging terrain.
Each method provides a professional, consistent result — every time.
Chriss Herr
cherr@unlimitedsuppliers.com
M: (530)723-0004
Ron Hagerty
rhagerty@unlimitedsuppliers.com
M: (530) 723- 0257
