Cable and Optical Fiber Strippers

Cable and optical fiber strippers are specialized tools designed to remove insulation, jackets, buffers, and coatings from wires and fiber optic cables with precision and minimal damage.

Overview

Cable and fiber strippers are essential for preparing cables for splicing, termination, or connection. They are designed to strip insulation or coatings cleanly without nicking or damaging the underlying conductor or fiber. Strippers vary based on the type of cable, diameter, and material, and can be mechanical, thermal, chemical, or automated.

Types of Strippers1.

Mechanical Strippers

Handheld pliers or tools with calibrated notches for different wire or fiber diameters. Common for standard telecommunication fibers (125 µm glass, 250 µm coating) and larger cables. Some models, like the CST-4000, allow longitudinal, spiral, and circular cuts for round cables 19–40 mm in diameter.

Adjustable stops and multiple openings enable precise stripping lengths and accommodate various cable sizes. 2.

Thermal Strippers

Use controlled heat to remove coatings or cladding gently. Ideal for high-strength splices and delicate fibers, preventing mechanical stress. Adjustable temperature and timing settings allow customization for different fiber types and diameters.

3.

Automated and Plasma-

Assisted Strippers

Fully automated units can perform window stripping or end stripping without chemicals. Plasma-assisted devices remove buffer materials up to 1200 µm in diameter cleanly and without contact, preserving fiber strength. 4.

Multi-

Purpose Cable Strippers

Designed for electrical wires (10–22 AWG) and fiber jackets (2–3 mm). Often include coil springs to reduce hand fatigue and multiple notches for different cable gauges. Kits may include wire cutters, ringer tools, and additional accessories for versatile applications.

Applications

Fiber Optic Work: Preparing fibers for splicing, termination, or creating fiber Bragg gratings. Electrical Wiring: Stripping insulation from stranded or solid wires for connectors or repairs. Laboratory and Production: High-precision stripping for single fibers, fiber ribbons, or specialty fibers with smaller diameters.

Key Considerations

Precision: Avoid nicking or scratching the conductor or fiber. Cable Compatibility: Ensure the stripper matches the cable diameter and type (single-mode, multi-mode, or plastic optical fiber). Ease of Use: Ergonomic designs, spring-loaded handles, and adjustable stops reduce fatigue and improve consistency.

Durability: High-quality steel blades and rugged construction ensure long-term reliability. Investing in the right cable or fiber stripper ensures clean, consistent results, protects delicate fibers, and improves efficiency in both field and laboratory settings.