Use fiber stripping pliers when fusing fibers

Fiber stripping pliers are essential for safely removing the protective coating from optical fibers to prepare them for high-quality fusion splicing.

Purpose of Fiber Stripping

Before fusion splicing, the optical fiber must be stripped down to the bare glass to ensure a clean, low-loss splice. The coating and cladding layers must be removed without nicking or scratching the fragile glass core, as any damage can increase splice loss or cause fiber breakage during splicing ( ).

Types of Fiber Strippers

Fiber strippers come in several forms: Mechanical handheld strippers: Use precision blades to shave off the coating. They are fast and inexpensive but require careful handling to avoid scratching the fiber ( ). Thermal strippers: Apply heat to soften the coating before removal, reducing the risk of physical damage.

These are often used for multi-fiber splicing ( ). Chemical strippers: Use solvents or acids to soften the coating, which can then be wiped away. Care must be taken to avoid harming the glass or operator ( ).

Arc or plasma strippers: Remove the coating using a high-temperature arc, similar to the fusion process itself ( ). For standard single-mode fibers with a 125 µm cladding, multi-hole strippers calibrated to the fiber diameter are recommended to prevent microfractures ( ).

Stripping Technique

Measure the strip length: Typically 10–20 mm for single-mode fibers, depending on the fusion splicer specifications ( ). Align the stripper: Hold the fiber perpendicular to the stripper jaws, with a slight inward angle on the upper part. Apply controlled pressure: Gently push the fiber along the axis to remove the coating without bending or twisting the glass ( ).

Clean the bare fiber: Remove any residue using a lint-free cloth with high-purity alcohol ( ).

Safety Considerations

Wear high-rated safety goggles and cut-resistant gloves to protect against glass shards ( ). Dispose of fiber waste immediately in a dedicated container or vacuum device. Avoid touching the bare fiber end face to prevent contamination or damage ( ).

Summary

Using fiber stripping pliers correctly is critical for preparing fibers for fusion splicing. Selecting the appropriate type of stripper, applying controlled pressure, and following safety protocols ensures a clean, undamaged fiber end, which directly affects splice quality and longevity ( ).