Methods for stripping single-wire optical fiber cables

Single-wire optical fiber cables are stripped using specialized fiber strippers, scissors, or precision tools to remove the jacket, aramid yarn, and buffer layers without damaging the glass core.

Layer-by-Layer Stripping Process

1. Outer Jacket Removal: The outer sheath, typically 2–3 mm in diameter, is stripped first using a wire stripper of the appropriate gauge. Care must be taken to avoid cutting the underlying aramid yarn, which provides tensile strength to the cable . The jacket should be removed cleanly without tearing or nicking the fiber.

2. Aramid Yarn (Kevlar) Handling: These strength members are cut using scissors designed for Kevlar to prevent dulling and ensure clean cuts. The aramid yarn is crimped to the connector body to absorb tensile stress, so any damage can reduce the finished cable's pull strength .

3. Buffer and Acrylate Coating Stripping: The fiber's buffer coating (typically 250 µm or 900 µm) and the acrylate coating protecting the glass core (125 µm cladding) are removed using a precision optical fiber stripper. Professional-grade strippers have multiple notches calibrated for each layer to avoid contact with the glass fiber . The smallest notch is critical for exposing the bare glass without causing nicks or scratches.

Tools and Techniques

• Mechanical Fiber Strippers: Handheld strippers with precision-ground holes for different coating diameters are commonly used. They allow controlled removal of the jacket, buffer, and acrylate layers .
• Fiber Cable Cutting Scissors: Three-hole scissors can strip multiple layers quickly and accurately, suitable for 125 µm and 250 µm fibers .
• Bare Fiber Grippers: Textured rubber grippers hold the fiber securely during stripping to prevent microfractures .
• Thermal or Chemical Stripping: In specialized applications, heat or chemical methods can remove coatings without mechanical contact, reducing the risk of scratches .

Best Practices

• Strip layers progressively rather than all at once to avoid damaging underlying components .
• Maintain sharp cutting edges on all tools to ensure clean cuts. Dull tools increase the risk of fiber damage .
• Limit the stripped length to the required specification (often 30–50 mm) to prevent weakening the fiber .
• Clean the bare fiber with lint-free wipes and high-purity alcohol to remove any residue before splicing or connectorization .

By following these methods and using the appropriate tools, technicians can safely strip single-wire optical fiber cables while preserving signal integrity and mechanical strength.