Polishing of fiber optics in the manufacturing environment

David Tracy; Stephen C. Pyke

doi:10.1117/12.344409

7 April 1999 Polishing of fiber optics in the manufacturing environment

David Tracy, Stephen C. Pyke

Proceedings Volume 3578, Laser-Induced Damage in Optical Materials: 1998; (1999) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.344409
Event: Laser-Induced Damage in Optical Materials: 1998, 1998, Boulder, CO, United States

Abstract

Lasers for industrial material processing, medicine, and military applications are widely used with fiberoptic cable assemblies for flexible beam delivery. Current methods for preparation of fiberoptic end faces employ traditional polishing techniques and CO₂ laser polishing. As higher powers become commonplace in laser applications, more attention is being focused on providing surfaces with a high damage threshold. Our experience with various abrasive media has suggested that final polishing with colloidal silica yields fibers with the longest life under high power conditions. We describe techniques for obtaining a final polish on connected fiberoptic cables using conventional polishing techniques. Results are presented comparing several different formations of colloidal silica for applying the final polish. Optical inspection is used to grade surfaces. Resulting surface finishes will be discussed in terms of the mechanical and chemical effects that combine to produce a high quality fiberoptic endface preparation.

Citation Download Citation

David Tracy and Stephen C. Pyke "Polishing of fiber optics in the manufacturing environment", Proc. SPIE 3578, Laser-Induced Damage in Optical Materials: 1998, (7 April 1999); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.344409

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