Fiber Optic fusion splicer tubing

Fusion splicer tubing, also known as splice sleeves, protects the joint between two fused optical fibers, ensuring mechanical strength and environmental protection.

Overview

Fusion splicer tubing is a heat-shrinkable protective sleeve that encases the fused section of optical fibers. After two fibers are aligned and fused using a fusion splicer, the splice point is fragile and susceptible to mechanical stress, moisture, and dust. The tubing provides mechanical reinforcement, environmental protection, and strain relief, ensuring long-term reliability of the fiber connection.

Types of Fusion Splice Tubes

Standard Sleeves: Typically 60mm in length, suitable for single-mode (SM) and multimode (MM) fibers with cladding diameters around 125µm and coating diameters up to 3mm. Slim, Mini, and Micro Sleeves: Designed for compact installations or high-density fiber arrangements, allowing easier handling in tight spaces. Ribbon Fiber Sleeves: Used for mass fusion splicing of multiple fibers simultaneously, such as 12- or 16-fiber ribbons, providing protection for all fibers in the ribbon.

Materials and Construction

Fusion splice tubes generally consist of: Inner Heat-Shrinkable Tube: Shrinks around the fiber to hold it securely. Reinforcing Fiber Rod: Provides mechanical strength to prevent bending or breakage. Clear Outer Tube: Allows visual inspection of the fiber color and splice quality.

Usage with Fusion SplicersAfter splicing, the fiber is placed inside the sleeve, which is then heated using a tube heater integrated into the fusion splicer. Heating causes the sleeve to shrink and the reinforcing rod to harden, securing the splice. Typical heating times range from 15 to 22 seconds for 60mm sleeves, depending on the splicer model and sleeve type.

Compatibility

Fusion splicer tubing is compatible with most modern splicers, including: Single Fiber Splicers: For individual fiber connections, often used in repairs or low-count installations. Ribbon Fiber Splicers: For high-density installations, such as data centers or backbone networks, capable of splicing multiple fibers simultaneously. Popular Models: Fujikura 45S, 90R, and Corning UCL-KF4 splicers support a variety of sleeve sizes and types.

Key Considerations

Sleeve Size: Match the sleeve to fiber type and coating diameter. Heating Time: Follow manufacturer guidelines to avoid under- or over-heating. Storage and Handling: Keep sleeves clean and dry to prevent contamination during splicing.

Inspection: Use the clear outer tube to verify proper fiber alignment and splice quality before deployment. Fusion splicer tubing is an essential accessory for reliable, long-lasting fiber optic connections, providing both mechanical and environmental protection for spliced fibers in telecom, FTTH, and data center applications.