Stripping of rigid optical cables

Stripping rigid optical cables involves carefully removing protective coatings and layers using mechanical, thermal, or automated tools to expose the bare fiber without causing damage.

Overview of Fiber Stripping

Optical fibers are typically coated with polymers such as acrylate, silicone, or polyimide to protect the glass core. For splicing, connectorization, or other processing, these coatings must be removed precisely to expose the bare fiber. Stripping must be done carefully to avoid scratches or nicks, which can weaken the fiber and lead to cracks under stress or thermal cycling .

Stripping Techniques

1. Mechanical Stripping: Uses precision hand tools or pliers to remove coatings. Mechanical strippers are available for standard telecommunication fibers (125 µm cladding, ~250 µm coated diameter) and for larger or specialty fibers. They are suitable for single fibers, tight buffers, or larger jackets .

2. Thermal Stripping: Applies controlled heat to soften or remove coatings without physically cutting the fiber. Thermal strippers allow precise removal of cladding or buffer layers and are ideal for high-strength splices .

3. Automated or Plasma-Assisted Stripping: Advanced systems, such as the AutoStrip II, use chemical-free or plasma-assisted methods to remove coatings cleanly, even for large-diameter fibers (up to 1,000 µm). These systems provide high repeatability, maintain fiber strength, and allow adjustable strip lengths .

Multi-Layer Cable Considerations

Rigid optical cables often have multiple layers, including outer jackets, aramid yarn, and buffer coatings. Each layer must be stripped progressively, not in a single step, to avoid damaging underlying fibers. Proper tool selection and maintenance are critical to ensure clean cuts and prevent weakening the fiber .

Best Practices

• Work in a clean, well-lit area free from dust and debris .
• Inspect the fiber for kinks or defects before stripping.
• Adjust stripper settings according to fiber diameter and coating type.
• Clean the stripped fiber with high-purity alcohol or dedicated fiber cleaning agents to remove residues .
• Cleave the fiber after stripping to create a smooth, perpendicular end face for splicing or connectorization .
• For multiple fibers, repeat the process individually to maintain consistency and precision.

Safety and Quality Considerations

• Avoid excessive strip lengths (typically ≤50 mm at a time) to prevent fiber damage .
• Use inspection microscopes or visual fault locators (VFL) to verify the quality of the stripped fiber .
• Maintain cutting edges of mechanical strippers to ensure clean, reliable stripping .

By following these techniques and best practices, rigid optical cables can be stripped efficiently while preserving fiber integrity, ensuring optimal performance in splicing, connectorization, and network installations.