Fiber optic cable splicing involves joining two optical fibers together, allowing light signals to pass through with minimal loss. According to the provided reference, fusion splicing is a common method which uses heat to fuse the ends of the fibers together. Here's a simplified breakdown of the process:
Fusion Splicing Steps
The reference video outlines an 11-step process. While specific details may vary slightly depending on the equipment, the general steps are as follows:
1. Fiber Preparation
- Stripping: Remove the outer protective coatings of the fiber, carefully exposing the bare glass fiber.
- Cleaning: Clean the bare fiber with an appropriate cleaning solution to remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the splice.
- Cleaving: Use a precision cleaver to create a clean, flat, and perpendicular end face on each fiber. This is crucial for a good splice.
2. Fusion Splicing
- Loading: Carefully load the prepared fibers into the fusion splicer.
- Alignment: The fusion splicer automatically aligns the two fibers using precise optical systems and fine motor control.
- Fusion: An electric arc is generated between two electrodes, melting the fiber ends. The splicer precisely moves the fibers together, fusing them into a single continuous strand.
- Inspection: The splicer checks the splice for quality and estimates signal loss.
3. Protection
- Reinforcing: Place a heat-shrinkable splice protection sleeve over the fused area.
- Heating: The splicer heats the sleeve, providing additional mechanical protection and insulation to the splice point.
Table: Fusion Splicing Steps
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Prep | Stripping, cleaning and cleaving the fibers to prepare them for splicing. |
| Load | Place prepared fibers into fusion splicer. |
| Align | Splicer aligns fibers using precise optical systems. |
| Fuse | Electric arc melts fibers, joining them into a single strand. |
| Inspect | Check the splice for quality and estimated signal loss. |
| Protect | Reinforce splice area with a heat-shrink sleeve. |
Important Considerations
- Cleanliness: Maintaining a clean environment and keeping the fibers spotless is critical for a successful splice.
- Precision: Each step requires precision handling and equipment to ensure a low-loss connection.
- Training: Fusion splicing requires training and experience for optimal results.
This approach to splicing provides a durable and effective method for connecting fiber optic cables, as the reference video indicates.
