How to strip the armored fiber optic cable

Use a dedicated armored fiber optic cable stripper to safely remove the outer jacket and armor without damaging the inner fibers or buffer tubes.Key Considerations

Armored fiber optic cables are reinforced with metallic layers (e.g., stainless steel, corrugated steel tape) or Kevlar to protect against crushing, moisture, rodents, and mechanical stress . Stripping these cables requires care to avoid nicking the inner buffer tubes or damaging tensile strength members, which are critical for maintaining cable integrity .

Tools Required

• Armored wire stripper (e.g., 4–10mm or 8–28mm models) designed for armored cables
• Fiber optic cable stripper for removing polymer coatings from individual fibers
• Fiber optic cleaver for creating clean end faces
• Lint-free wipes and alcohol for cleaning stripped fibers
• Inspection microscope or visual fault locator (VFL) to check for defects

Step-by-Step Stripping Process

1. Prepare the Work Area: Ensure a clean, well-lit environment free from dust and debris .
2. Inspect the Cable: Check for visible damage, kinks, or bends and confirm the cable type and diameter .
3. Remove the Outer Jacket and Armor:
   • Use a dedicated armored wire stripper to cut through the outer jacket and metallic armor.
   • Adjust the blade depth to avoid contact with inner buffer tubes or Kevlar filaments .
   • Make lateral cuts carefully near connectors if needed, ensuring precision to prevent damage .
4. Expose Strength Members: After removing the armor, carefully separate and trim any aramid yarn or tensile fibers without cutting them, as they provide tensile strength .
5. Strip Individual Fiber Coatings: Use a fiber optic cable stripper to remove the polymer coating from each fiber, following manufacturer guidelines for blade depth and strip length .
6. Clean and Inspect Fibers: Wipe stripped fibers with alcohol to remove debris, then inspect with a microscope or VFL to ensure a clean, defect-free end face .
7. Cleave Fibers for Termination: Use a fiber optic cleaver to create a perpendicular, smooth end face for connectorization .

Safety and Best Practices

• Always maintain sharp, properly adjusted tools to prevent accidental nicks .
• Avoid using utility knives or hacksaws, as these can easily damage inner fibers or buffer tubes .
• Follow minimum bend radius requirements for armored cables to prevent stress or microbends .
• Perform stripping progressively, layer by layer, rather than attempting to remove all layers at once . By following these steps and using the correct tools, you can efficiently strip armored fiber optic cables while preserving the integrity of the inner fibers and ensuring reliable network performance .