How to strip fiber from optical cable

Optical fibers can be stripped using mechanical, thermal, chemical, or automated methods, each designed to safely remove coatings and jackets without damaging the glass core.Mechanical StrippingMechanical stripping is the most common method and involves precision fiber strippers with sharp, sized slots to remove coatings or jackets. Handheld strippers hold the fiber in a slot, press through the coating, and slide it off the end of the cable. They are available for different coating diameters, such as 125 µm glass with 250 µm coatings, and can also handle tight buffers (e.g., 900 µm) or larger cable jackets. Multi-layer cables require progressive stripping, removing the outer jacket, aramid yarn, and buffer layers individually to avoid damaging the fiber underneath .Thermal StrippingThermal methods use heat to soften the polymer coating, making it easier to remove. Heated hand tools or automated systems can strip coatings without applying excessive mechanical force, reducing the risk of micro-cracks or scratches on the fiber. This method is particularly useful for delicate or specialty fibers with thin coatings .Chemical StrippingChemical stripping involves solvents that dissolve the polymer coating. This method is less common in field applications but can be used in laboratory or controlled environments. It is effective for coatings that are difficult to remove mechanically, such as polyimide or silicone layers, but requires careful handling to avoid fiber contamination or damage .Automated Stripping ToolsAutomated fiber strippers provide consistent, repeatable results with minimal operator skill. These systems can handle multiple fibers simultaneously and are adjustable for different coating diameters. They often include fiber guides and matched blades to ensure the glass fiber is never nicked or scratched .Best PracticesAlways inspect the fiber for damage before stripping.Adjust the stripper blade depth according to the fiber diameter.Clean the stripped fiber with alcohol wipes to remove debris.Use a fiber cleaver and inspection microscope to ensure a clean, perpendicular end face for termination .For multi-fiber cables, repeat the stripping process for each fiber individually to maintain precision and avoid cross-contamination . By selecting the appropriate method and following careful procedures, optical fibers can be stripped efficiently while maintaining the integrity of the glass core, ensuring reliable splicing and connectorization.