How to use a fiber optic hot stripper

A fiber optic thermal stripper safely removes the protective coating from optical fibers by applying controlled heat, exposing the glass core without causing nicks or scratches.

Overview

A fiber optic thermal stripper is a heat-based tool designed to remove the acrylate or buffer coating from optical fibers. Unlike mechanical strippers, it softens the coating rather than cutting it, which prevents microscopic cracks, scratches, or stress fractures that can degrade signal quality and cause fiber failure . It is suitable for standard telecommunication fibers (125 µm glass cladding with 250 µm coating) and larger tight buffers (e.g., 900 µm) used in fiber cables .

Step-by-Step Usage

1. Prepare the Fiber Cut the fiber to the desired length and ensure it is clean. Remove any outer jacket or aramid yarn if present, using a standard fiber cable stripper or scissors .
2. Select the Correct Heat Setting Most thermal strippers have multiple heat levels powered by a rechargeable battery. Choose a setting appropriate for the fiber type (e.g., 250 µm or 900 µm) to avoid overheating or underheating .
3. Position the Fiber Insert the fiber into the stripper's designated notch or hole that matches the coating diameter. Ensure the fiber is straight and properly seated to prevent bending or uneven stripping .
4. Apply Heat and Strip Activate the thermal element. The heat will soften the coating. Gently pull the fiber or the softened coating away from the glass core. Avoid excessive force to prevent breaking the fiber .
5. Inspect the Fiber After stripping, check that the glass cladding is fully exposed and free of nicks or scratches. The stripped length is typically 30–40 mm for splicing or connectorization .
6. Proceed to Cleaving or Splicing Once the coating is removed, the fiber is ready for cleaving, fusion splicing, or connector termination.

Tips and Precautions

• Avoid Mechanical Contact: Do not use blades or pliers on the glass itself, as this can cause micro-cracks.
• Use Proper Notches: Ensure the stripper's holes are calibrated for the specific fiber diameter.
• Work in a Clean Environment: Dust or debris can contaminate the fiber and affect signal quality.
• Practice on Spare Fiber: If new to thermal stripping, practice on scrap fibers to get a feel for heat settings and pulling technique . Using a fiber optic thermal stripper correctly ensures clean, reliable fiber preparation, reduces the risk of signal loss, and improves the longevity of splices and terminations.