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4 and 5). The stripping process is often the dominant factor controlling the ultimate tensile strength of the resulting splice, which in turn determines the long-term reliability of the splice (see Chap. 6). In this chapter we present a general introduction to optical fiber stripping, cleaving, and alignment technology applied to fusion splicing. More specific information is available in the numerous references cited throughout the chapter. 1 Stripping The fundamental motivation for stripping the coating from a fiber prior to fusion splicing is that the high temperatures experienced during joint formation will damage polymer coatings and possibly damage the heated portion of glass contacting the coating.

48]. Microstructured fibers may very well fill important new roles in fiber devices and might even serve as long-haul transmission fiber. These fibers pose particularly unique and difficult problems for fusion splicing. Commercialization of these fibers will no doubt have a profound impact on the future evolution of fusion splicing technology. The future of optical fiber may very well lie with microstructured fiber or perhaps even non-silica based optical fiber, which pose even greater challenges. 8 Summary An optical fiber fusion splice is a permanent welded joint between two optical fibers that exhibits minimal optical loss and reflectance with long-term reliability rivaling the fibers themselves.

Some solvents, especially methylene chloride, can wick up long lengths of fiber causing the primary coating to separate from the glass. Although chemical stripping usually leaves no coating residue, a final rinse step is necessary to ensure no solvent remains on the fiber. Depending on the stripping solvent, water, acetone, or alcohol are commonly employed as rinse agents. 4 Vaporization Stripping Techniques A number of vaporization stripping techniques have recently been developed and commercialized so they are viable alternatives to chemical and mechanical stripping.