Use stripping tools to strip optical cables

Optical cable strippers are precision tools used to safely remove protective coatings from fiber optic cables without damaging the glass core, requiring careful handling, proper adjustment, and adherence to safety protocols.Understanding Optical Fiber Strippers

An optical fiber stripper is a specialized hand tool designed to remove the polymer coatings from optical fibers, typically down to the 125 µm glass cladding. These coatings include the outer jacket, buffer layers, and acrylate coating that protects the glass core. Proper stripping is essential for fusion splicing, connector termination, or in-line testing, as improper handling can cause nicks, scratches, or stress fractures that lead to signal loss or connection failure .

Safety Precautions

• Always wear safety glasses to protect against sharp fiber shards .
• Use a labeled sharps container for discarded fiber pieces to prevent injury .
• Avoid bending the fiber beyond its minimum bend radius and do not apply excessive pulling force .
• Handle cut fibers with tweezers and avoid letting fragments stick to clothing or work surfaces .

Step-by-Step Stripping Instructions

1. Select the appropriate stripper: Choose a tool with precision holes or notches matching the fiber diameter (e.g., 250 µm or 900 µm coatings) and type (tight buffer, loose tube, or specialty fibers), .
2. Adjust blade depth: For adjustable strippers, set the blade depth to remove the coating without nicking the glass fiber .
3. Strip the outer jacket: For multi-layer cables, first remove the outer sheath using the designated cavity or a separate cable slitter if needed .
4. Remove buffer and acrylate coatings: Insert the fiber into the correct precision cavity and gently squeeze the handles to cut the coating. Pull the stripper along the fiber to remove the coating cleanly .
5. Trim aramid yarn or strength members: Use cable-cutting scissors to remove any exposed strength fibers after stripping .
6. Inspect the fiber: Ensure the glass core is free of nicks or scratches before proceeding to cleaving or connectorization .

Types of Strippers

• Mechanical strippers: Handheld tools with precision-ground holes for standard fibers.
• Thermal or chemical strippers: Use heat or solvents for specialty coatings.
• Multi-layer strippers: Designed for tight buffers, loose tubes, and armored cables, often with adjustable blades for different diameters .

Best Practices

• Work in a clean, well-lit area to avoid contamination.
• Use the correct stripper for the fiber type and coating thickness.
• Avoid repeated stripping on the same fiber section to prevent weakening.
• Maintain the tool by keeping blades sharp and clean for consistent performance . By following these instructions and safety measures, technicians can efficiently prepare optical fibers for splicing or termination while minimizing the risk of damage or injury.