Thursday, February 6, 2020

Fiber optic processing

Most optical cable systems use sheathed glass fiber. The latter provides the necessary strength, simplifies the handling of the fiber and allows the manufacturer to mark the fibers with different colors in order to visually identify them. During the installation of connectors or cable splices, the sheath is removed, which allows you to combine the fibers with the required accuracy. At the time of removal of the sheath, a number of questions arise regarding the proper handling of tools and chemicals, the processing of fiber and the disposal of its fragments. As soon as the outer sheath is removed, the fiber becomes unprotected and breaks easily. The probability of fiber fragments getting under the skin at this moment is greatest. Therefore, it is advisable to equip the workplace so that it is safe.

Mats and tables suitable for this are produced by many manufacturers. The surface of the table should have a coating that contrasts in color with the fiber being processed, and this is just one of the conditions for more convenient and safe operation. For laboratory and industrial premises, a black, non-reflective and chemical-resistant work surface that is easy to clean; the design of the table should be such that no fragments of fiber accumulate in its seams and at the edges.

For field conditions, black mats with a matte finish are recommended; Their main quality is lightweight and transportability (they are easily rolled up and stored in a toolbox). An alternative can be three types of work tables. For telecommunication rooms, a small light table is best suited. A safe working environment requires a non-reflective work surface and a container for trimming fiber. For cable splicers, longer tables with height adjustment are best suited. It is also desirable to have good lighting, magnifying glasses, and devices for attaching cables to protect them from damage.
Also Read: fiber optics technician
The goose-neck lamps, which are very good both in the laboratory and in the field, illuminate the workplace well.

Protective glasses.

When working with Class 3 lasers, personnel should wear safety glasses with appropriate filters. Professionals dealing with components based on VCSEL lasers should wear safety glasses designed for a wavelength of 850 nm. In addition, they should be equipped with filters with optical density (optical density - OD), corresponding to a specific application. For example, with an OD of unity, the attenuation of transmitted optical radiation is 10 dB; with an OD equal to 2, - 100 dB, etc. Knowing the output optical power of the radiation source, it is possible to determine the required OD value, which reduces the power of the transmitted radiation to a safe level.

When processing fibers, especially when installing connectors and splicing cables, ordinary safety glasses are quite suitable. In normal operation, they prevent fiber fragments from entering the eyes. However, suppose you suddenly wanted to rub your eyes. If at the same time pieces of fiber are stuck to the hands, such a seemingly innocuous desire can negate the protective function of safety glasses: the fiber fragments are small and transparent, they can easily stick to the skin, remaining invisible. For the same reason, it is recommended to wash your hands more often, and this will be another means of protecting the eyes. Since the work with glasses is necessary and they will have to be carried out for a long time both in the laboratory and in the field, special attention should be paid to their design and convenience.

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