Optical Cable Stripping 6

Stripping a 6-core optical cable requires careful, layer-by-layer removal using specialized fiber optic strippers to avoid damaging the delicate glass fibers.

Preparation and Safety

Before starting, ensure a clean, well-lit workspace free from dust and debris. Inspect the cable for any kinks or damage, and gather all necessary tools, including fiber optic strippers, cleavers, alcohol wipes, and protective sleeves. Always wear safety glasses to protect against fiber shards.

Step-by-

Step Stripping Process

Strip the Outer Jacket: Use a wire or fiber optic jacket stripper to remove the outer sheath. Adjust the tool to avoid cutting the underlying aramid yarn or buffer layers. Remove Strength Members: Carefully cut or pull back the aramid yarn (Kevlar) that provides tensile strength.

Avoid nicking the fiber cores. Strip Individual Buffers: Each of the six cores has its own buffer coating. Use a fiber optic buffer stripper to remove the 250µm or 900µm buffer down to the 125µm cladding.

This can be done manually, with heated tools, or automated strippers for consistency. Clean the Fiber: Wipe each stripped fiber with alcohol to remove debris and coating residue. Ensure the fiber is free of dust before cleaving or termination.

Inspect and Cleave: Use a fiber inspection microscope or visual fault locator (VFL) to check for scratches or nicks. Cleave the fiber to the desired length for termination or splicing. Tools for 6-Core CablesManual Multi-Core Strippers: Ergonomic hand tools designed for 6-core or more, capable of stripping multiple fibers simultaneously.

Automated Strippers: Machines that precisely remove buffers and coatings with minimal operator skill, ideal for high-volume or repetitive tasks. Protective Sleeves: Use sleeves to protect stripped fibers during handling and storage.

Best Practices

Strip layer by layer, never attempt to remove all layers at once. Maintain sharp blades on all stripping tools to ensure clean cuts and prevent jagged edges. Handle fibers gently to avoid micro-cracks, which can lead to signal loss or failure.

Repeat the process for each core individually to maintain consistency and prevent cross-contamination. By following these steps and using the appropriate tools, you can safely strip a 6-core optical cable, ensuring clean, reliable fibers ready for termination or splicing.