The present invention includes a high performance communications cable
exhibiting reduced cross-talk of any form between transmission media that
includes one or more core support-separators having various shaped
profiles which define a clearance to maintain a spacing between
transmission media or transmission media pairs. The core may be formed of
a conductive or insulative material to further reduce cross-talk and
improve other electrical properties as well as reduce flame and smoke
spread. The cable and separators are comprised of principally polymer
blends that include olefin and/or fluoropolymer and/or
chlorofluoropolymer based resins with and without inorganic additive such
as nano-clay composites. These unique blends offer both flame and smoke
suppression while maintaining the characteristics necessary to improve
electrical performance and allow for severe cost reduction over
conventional separators. The specially shaped core support-separators can
be either interior to the cable jacket or be employed singularly without
the benefit of a jacket and extend along the longitudinal length of the
communications cable. Alternatively, with no jacket for cable completion,
a portion of the separator wherein a thin layer of material can act as a
type of skin for future mechanical protection is provided. The specially
shaped core support-separator has both a central region as well as a
plurality of shaped sections that extend outward from the central region
that are either solid or partially solid, foamed or foamed with a solid
skin surface. In addition, the invention includes the optional
incorporation of hollow ducts that can be used to provide optical or
metal conductor media either before, during, or after installation of the
cable primarily by gas driven means.