Fiber stripper pliers for fiber optic fusion splicers

Fiber stripper pliers are essential tools for preparing optical fibers for fusion splicing, available in manual, thermal, and automated versions to ensure precise coating removal without damaging the fiber.

Types of Fiber Stripper Pliers

Manual Strippers: These are hand-held pliers designed to remove the protective coating from optical fibers, typically exposing the 125 µm glass core. Examples include the JIC-125, which strips 250 µm buffer coatings, and specialty pliers for mid-span access or thick-walled cables. Manual strippers are lightweight, portable, and ideal for fieldwork or small-scale splicing tasks.

Thermal Strippers: These use heat to soften the fiber coating for easier removal. Tools like the TSAB-40 feature adjustable heaters up to 200°C and can handle cladding diameters from 30 µm to 1000 µm, including baked-on or fluoroacrylate coatings. Thermal strippers reduce the risk of fiber damage and are suitable for difficult coatings.

Automated/

Precision Strippers: Battery-powered tools, such as the AFL Precision Strip, use an integrated heating element to strip fiber coatings with minimal force, ensuring high-quality splices and consistent results. Similarly, the Fujikura SS110 offers automatic blade selection and RFID-enabled fiber holders for precise stripping of UV-coated fibers ranging from 160 µm to 550 µm. These tools are ideal for high-volume or field operations requiring speed and accuracy.

Key Features to Consider

Compatibility with Fiber Diameter: Ensure the stripper matches the fiber's cladding and coating diameters. Some tools offer interchangeable blades for different sizes. Stripping Force: Low-force strippers reduce the risk of micro-cracks or fiber breakage.

Portability: Battery-powered or handheld designs are convenient for fieldwork. Specialized Functions: Some strippers include mid-span access, Kevlar cutting, or aramid shears for cable preparation.

Recommended Use

Select a stripper compatible with your fiber type and coating. For manual pliers, align the fiber in the correct slot and apply gentle pressure to remove the coating. For thermal or automated strippers, set the appropriate temperature or program for the fiber diameter.

Inspect the stripped fiber under magnification to ensure no damage before fusion splicing. By choosing the right fiber stripper pliers and following proper handling procedures, technicians can achieve clean, precise fiber preparation, which is critical for high-quality fusion splices and reliable optical network performance.