Fiber melting, also known as fiber fusion or splicing, is a critical process in fiber optic communication networks. It involves joining two or more fiber optic cables by melting their ends together using a fusion splicer or other specialized equipment. Fiber melting is used to extend the length of a fiber optic cable, repair damaged cables, or connect two different types of cables. While fiber melting is generally a reliable and effective method, it can still encounter issues. In this article, we will explore some of the common issues of fiber melting and how to address them.
Contamination
Contamination is one of the most common issues encountered during fiber melting. The fusion splicer requires a clean and smooth surface to melt the fiber ends together effectively. Any contamination such as dust, dirt, or oil on the surface of the fibers can interfere with the melting process and affect the quality of the splice.
Solution: To prevent contamination, it is essential to keep the fiber ends clean before and during the melting process. Wipe the fiber ends with a lint-free cloth or alcohol wipes to remove any dirt or oil. It is also recommended to clean the fusion splicer regularly to ensure that it is free of debris and other contaminants.
Misalignment
Misalignment occurs when the fiber ends are not precisely aligned during the melting process. This can result in a weak or poor-quality splice that can affect the signal transmission.
Solution: To prevent misalignment, it is essential to ensure that the fiber ends are precisely aligned before melting. The fusion splicer should be calibrated properly, and the fibers should be cleaved and stripped accurately. It is also recommended to use a visual fault locator or an optical microscope to verify that the fibers are correctly aligned.
Excessive Loss
Excessive loss is another common issue encountered during fiber melting. This occurs when the melted fibers do not have a clean and smooth surface, or if the melting process is not done correctly, resulting in a loss of signal.
Solution: To prevent excessive loss, it is essential to ensure that the fiber ends are clean and smooth before melting. The fusion splicer should be calibrated correctly, and the melting process should be done precisely. It is also recommended to use a high-quality fusion splicer that provides accurate and reliable results.
Poor Strength
Poor strength is another issue encountered during fiber melting. This occurs when the melted fibers do not bond adequately, resulting in a weak splice that can break easily.
Solution: To prevent poor strength, it is essential to ensure that the fibers are clean and smooth before melting. The fusion splicer should be calibrated properly, and the melting process should be done precisely. It is also recommended to use a fusion splicer that provides consistent and reliable results.
Fiber Damage
Fiber damage can occur during the melting process, resulting in a damaged or broken fiber. This can happen if the fibers are not handled carefully or if there is excessive tension or pressure applied during the process.
Solution: To prevent fiber damage, it is essential to handle the fibers carefully before and during the melting process. The fibers should be stripped and cleaved precisely, and the fusion splicer should be calibrated correctly. It is also recommended to use a fusion splicer that provides precise and accurate results.
Temperature Variations
Temperature variations can affect the melting process and the quality of the splice. The ambient temperature can affect the performance of the fusion splicer, and if the temperature is too low, it can cause the fibers to become brittle and break easily.
Solution: To prevent temperature variations, it is essential to perform fiber melting in a controlled environment with a stable temperature. The fusion splicer should be calibrated to the correct temperature range, and the fibers should be preheated to the correct temperature before melting.
