Fiber strippers are essential tools for optical fiber technicians when performing splicing, termination, or maintenance tasks on optical fibers. They are used to remove the protective coatings of the optical fiber without causing any damage to the fiber. In this article, we will discuss how to correctly use a fiber stripper to ensure the safety of the technician and the integrity of the optical fiber.
Step 1: Choose the right type of fiber stripper
There are various types of fiber strippers available on the market, and each type is designed for a specific type of optical fiber. Before using a fiber stripper, make sure to choose the right type of stripper for the fiber you are working on. The most common types of fiber strippers are the three-hole stripper, the two-hole stripper, and the round cable stripper.
Step 2: Clean the fiber before stripping
Before using the fiber stripper, it is essential to clean the optical fiber with a lint-free cloth to remove any dust or dirt that may be on the fiber. This will help prevent any contaminants from being pushed into the fiber when the coating is removed.
Step 3: Set the blade depth
The next step is to set the blade depth. The blade depth determines how much of the coating will be removed from the fiber. If the blade depth is too deep, it may damage the fiber, and if it is too shallow, the coating may not be fully removed. Most fiber strippers come with an adjustable blade depth, which can be set according to the diameter of the fiber.
Step 4: Strip the fiber
Once the blade depth is set, place the fiber into the appropriate hole of the fiber stripper, making sure that the coating is aligned with the blade. Apply pressure to the fiber stripper and rotate it around the fiber to remove the coating. It is important to apply an even and constant pressure to ensure that the coating is removed evenly.
Step 5: Inspect the fiber
After stripping the fiber, inspect the fiber to ensure that the coating has been fully removed and that the fiber has not been damaged. A fiber microscope can be used to inspect the fiber and check for any damage or contamination.
Step 6: Dispose of the waste
The stripped coating is considered hazardous waste and should be disposed of properly. It is recommended to use a designated waste container for the disposal of the stripped coating.
Precautions when using a fiber stripper:
Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and safety glasses, when using a fiber stripper to protect your eyes and skin from any stray fibers.
Never touch the bare fiber with your fingers or any other object, as this can cause contamination or damage to the fiber.
Always use the right type of fiber stripper for the type of fiber you are working on, as using the wrong type of stripper can cause damage to the fiber.
Make sure the blade is sharp and in good condition before using the fiber stripper. A dull blade can cause uneven stripping and damage to the fiber.
Always dispose of the stripped coating properly in a designated hazardous waste container.
In conclusion, using a fiber stripper is an important part of working with optical fibers, but it is essential to use it correctly and safely to avoid damaging the fiber. By following the steps outlined above and taking the necessary precautions, technicians can ensure that the fiber is stripped correctly and safely.
