2 Dec

How Does Fiber Optics Splicing Work?

How Does Fiber Optics Splicing Work?

Fiber optics splicing is not something that the average person ever does or will ever even witness. However, it is growing in commonality every day because of the increased necessity of fiber optics cables in the world, therefore increased need for fiber optics splicing. So how does this incredible technology work, exactly? Here is the process for doing fiber optics splicing.

  • Preparing the Fiber: To first splice the fiber you must expose the fiber for splicing. This means stripping all of the coatings and layers that cover and protect the fiber so you can get to it. It must also be very clean, because it will not work well if dirt or dust gets in the way.
  • Cleaving: From here the fiber must be snapped so a cleaver is needed. A good cleaver is essential to getting a clean break, because a clean break is absolutely vital to properly splicing the fiber optics.
  • Option 1: Mechanical: This type of splicing is when you take the two clean optics and mechanically brace them together. They need to be aligned and braced perfectly together in order for this to work. It is not effective as option 2, however.
  • Option 2: Fusing: This process involves fusing the two ends together, so they essentially create a new connection. It is more efficient and effective than option 1.
  • Protection: From here, the protective layers and covers must be placed on. Silicone gel, tubing, or crimp protectors can all be used to ensure the fiber optics are not going to break due to forces in the future.

The process for fiber optics splicing is fairly intuitive, and straightforward. Precision and knowledge are required to do it properly, but experts know exactly how to get it done.