Stripping of optical cables

Optical cables can be stripped using mechanical, thermal, chemical, or specialized precision tools to safely remove protective coatings without damaging the fiber core.Mechanical Stripping

Mechanical stripping is the most common method and involves handheld fiber strippers or scissors with precision-cut slots to remove coatings. These tools are designed to strip the outer jacket, buffer coating, and aramid yarn layers progressively, exposing the bare glass fiber without nicking or scratching it. Multi-notch strippers allow technicians to handle different coating diameters, typically 250 µm or 900 µm, down to the 125 µm glass cladding . Rotary or blade strippers are also used for round or flat drop cables .

Thermal Stripping

Thermal or thermo-mechanical strippers use heat to soften the polymer coating before removal. This method is particularly useful for delicate fibers or laboratory applications where minimal mechanical stress is required. Heat reduces the risk of micro-cracks and ensures a clean removal of the coating .

Chemical Stripping

Chemical stripping involves solvents or acids to dissolve the polymer coating. This method is less common in fieldwork but is used in manufacturing or research settings where precision and uniformity are critical. Proper handling and safety precautions are essential due to the hazardous nature of the chemicals .

Non-Contact Methods

Non-contact techniques, such as hot air or laser ablation, remove coatings without physically touching the fiber. These methods are suitable for specialized applications like creating fiber Bragg gratings or handling ultra-thin fibers where mechanical contact could cause damage .

Best Practices

• Strip layers progressively: Outer jacket first, then aramid yarn, followed by buffer coatings .
• Use the correct tool for the fiber type: Single-mode, multi-mode, or plastic optical fibers may require different strippers .
• Maintain tools: Keep blades sharp and calibrated to avoid nicks or scratches .
• Avoid generic wire strippers: Using improper tools can cause micro-fractures, leading to signal loss or connection failure . By selecting the appropriate method and tool for the specific cable type, technicians can ensure safe, efficient, and reliable fiber preparation for splicing, connectorization, or other optical network tasks.