If you’re new to fibre optics, the important thing to understand is that fibre optic networks are high-speed communication links made up of very fine glass strands that transport information from one place to another through light pulses. It’s been reported that the fastest transatlantic cable can carry up to 30 million calls at one time.
Fibre optic cables are made in varying lengths of up to several kilometres at a time, so cables need to be joined together, or more accurately, the fibres in them need to be joined together to deliver broadband connections to premises. That’s where fusion splicers come in – they are devices which create a permanent bond between two fibres using a powerful electrical arc that welds two fibres together to create a seamless bond. The result is a connection which allows light to pass through without being impeded – we call that a low-loss connection. Fujikura’s fusion splicers are outstanding at delivering these results because of their precision, ease of use, automated features, and careful engineering. Because our splicers streamline the splicing processes and reduce splicing time, Fujikura splicers make things more efficient for the technicians who are out there splicing fibres together as they expand optical networks or perform maintenance on them.
Fibre vs Copper
We make fibre optic network technologies, and you’re reading this on our website, so it’s highly likely you are aware of the importance of optical networks. There’s a good chance that optical fibre is playing a role in you reading this blog. We transmit and receive vast quantities of data around the world – high-definition streaming, real-time video conferences and large file exchanges are just a few of the reasons why we’ve become so reliant on fast internet speeds. Optical networks make this possible and traditional copper cables cannot handle the amount of data we need to exchange.
Fibre optic networks offer significantly faster data transfer rates and a higher bandwidth, which can handle higher traffic and simultaneous transmission of large amounts of data. Compared to copper cables, optical fibres are more reliable and robust as they are immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI), resulting in lower signal degradation.
The role of fusion splicers
Fusion splicers play a crucial role in the field of optical fibre communications by enabling the permanent bonding of two strands of glass fibre to create a continuous pathway for light to travel through. This process is achieved through precise alignment and fusion of the fibre ends using an electric arc or laser, resulting in a near-perfect connection that is highly durable and resistant to signal disruptions.
The two fibre ends are effectively melted together, ensuring a seamless connection that minimises signal loss and reflection. Ultimately, this leads to superior performance in terms of faster data transmission speeds and higher reliability.
While fusion splicing requires specialist equipment and skills, the long-term benefits of enhanced performance and reliability make it a worthwhile investment for high-bandwidth and critical applications. Fusion splicing is particularly well-suited for applications such as long-distance telecommunication networks, data centres, and medical imaging equipment where consistent and reliable data transmission is essential.
The durability and precision of fusion splicing make it an ideal choice for maintaining signal integrity in demanding environments and critical communications infrastructure.
What equipment do you need to fusion splice?
Fusion splicing isn’t something that you can do with any old tools off the shelf. Specialist tools and equipment are required, as well as a professional who knows what they are doing. Let’s take a closer look at the key pieces of equipment.
Fusion splicer
The splicer orchestrates the core part of the process, using an electric arc or laser to melt and fuse two fibre ends together. Different models offer varying levels of automation, alignment accuracy, and additional features. Browse our range of fusion splicers here, available to purchase or hire.
Cleaver
A cleaver is a tool that creates a controlled break in a fibre, to produce a clean end-face. It works by applying increased pressure until the fibre breaks cleanly. With precision cleavers, you only need to clamp the fibre and press down on the lever, and the cleaver does the rest. Our CT50 cleaver is an enhanced drop and impact-resistant cleaver compared to others on the market. It delivers speed, precision and ease to the cleaving of both single and bundles of up to 12 fibres.
Accessories
The STK-04 kit contains every accessory you need to splice. This kit is an essential tool kit for any fibre engineer and is the perfect accessory for any Fujikura splicer. Not only do you have everything you need to splice, but it also fits perfectly into your splicer carrying case. This kit includes fibre cleaning fluid, lint-free wipes, a cable ringing tool, Kevlar scissors, loose tube cutters, Fujikura tri-hole strippers, lint-free miniature cotton buds, and a carry case for easy storage and transport.
Conclusion
Fibre splicing is an indispensable process for constructing and maintaining fibre optic networks, crucial for seamless connectivity in an age where the advent of new technologies requires more and more bandwidth. Fibre optics offer superior speed, reliability, and future-ready capabilities compared to traditional copper cables.
Since the first fusion splicer was created in 1977 by Fujikura, these tools have advanced significantly, enabling the creation of durable and precise fibre connections and enhancing data transmission over long distances.
The evolution of fusion splicing technology has revolutionised the telecommunications industry, allowing more regions to connect with the rest of the world. Through continued investment in cutting-edge fusion splicers, can be better positioned to adapt their fibre networks to meet the communications requirements.
For further information on fibre splicers, or to learn more about our products and services, get in touch with the team at Fujikura today.
Share
Related
