How to strip the inner core of an optical cable

Stripping the inner core of an optical fiber involves carefully removing the protective coatings and buffers to expose the bare glass fiber without causing scratches or microfractures.

Optical fibers are typically composed of multiple layers: the outer jacket, aramid yarn or strength members, buffer coating, and the glass core/cladding. Each layer must be stripped progressively, starting from the outer jacket and moving inward, to avoid damaging the delicate inner core ( ). The core itself is usually 125 µm in diameter, with coatings increasing the total diameter to around 250 µm for standard telecom fibers ( ).

Specialized fiber strippers are used to remove coatings cleanly. These tools can be mechanical, thermal, or non-contact, and are designed to match the fiber's coating diameter ( ). Key features include:

• Precision blades to avoid nicking the glass core.
• Fiber guides to ensure proper alignment.
• Color-coded blades for different fiber diameters.
• Grippers to hold the fiber securely without wrapping or clamping, which can create microfractures ( ).

For tight-buffered fibers, tools like the No-Nik® or Micro-Strip® kits can strip buffers up to 2360 µm and jackets up to 3.5 mm ( ).

1. Measure and mark the length of coating to be removed according to connector or splicer specifications ( ).
2. Strip the outer jacket carefully using the appropriate gauge stripper, avoiding damage to underlying aramid yarn or buffer ( ).
3. Remove the buffer coating with a precision fiber stripper, exposing the bare glass core ( ).
4. Clean the bare fiber using lint-free wipes and high-purity alcohol to remove any residue ( ).
5. Inspect the fiber under a microscope for scratches or nicks before cleaving or connectorization ( ).

• Always wear safety glasses to protect against sharp glass fragments ( ).
• Handle fibers carefully to avoid microfractures, which can weaken the fiber and cause future failures ( ).
• Maintain stripper blades regularly to ensure clean cuts and prevent accidental damage ( ).

• Avoid stripping more than 50 mm at a time to reduce the risk of fiber damage ( ).
• For specialty fibers with thinner coatings, adjust stripper settings or use tools designed for smaller diameters ( ).
• Use fiber grippers rather than clamping the fiber directly to prevent stress points ( ).

By following these techniques and using the correct tools, the inner core of an optical fiber can be safely exposed for splicing, connectorization, or other optical processing tasks.