Corning SST-UltraRibbon™ gel-free cables continue the innovative breakthrough in outdoor cable technology by introducing a new generation of high-fiber-count gel-free cables. Providing high-fiber-counts in a rugged, compact design, the enhanced coupling features ensure the ribbon stack and cable act as one unit, providing long-term reliability in aerial, duct and direct-buried applications. These features also minimize ribbon movement in situations where cable vibration may occur. The cable consists of a single buffer tube containing a stack of up to eighteen 24-fiber ribbons wrapped within a water-swellable foam tape and surrounded by a second water-swellable tape. Each 24-fiber ribbon can be easily separated by hand into two 12-fiber ribbons. Strength members located 180 degrees apart under the cable jacket provide tensile and anti-buckling strength. The cable is jacketed with a black UV-resistant polyethylene sheath.