Through splicing, fiber optic technicians can extend the length of the fiber to make it long enough for use in a required cable run. As fiber optic cables are generally only produced in lengths up to around 5km, so when lengthier connections are needed, splicing two cables together becomes necessary.
Splicing is usually the preferred way to join two fiber optic cables as it results in a lower light loss
1. Stripping the fiber
To start fusing your fibers together, you must remove or strip the protective polymer coating around the optical fiber. This is usually done with a mechanical stripping device, similar to a pair of wire strippers. Remember to clean the stripping tools before you start the fusing process.
2. Cleaning the fiber
After the fiber has been stripped of the coating, it's time to clean the bare fiber. Using a 99.9% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and lint-free wipes will keep the glass free of any contaminations.
3. Cleaving the fiber
A good cleaver is crucial to a successful fusion splice. The cleaver nicks the fiber and pulls or flexes it to cause a clean break rather then cut the fiber, which makes the end-face flat and perpendicular to the axis of the fiber.
4. Fusing the fiber
After the fibers have been cleaved, fuse them together with a fusion splicer. First, you must align the ends of the fiber within the splicer. Once properly aligned, melt the fibers with an electric arc, permanently welding the ends together.
5. Protecting the fiber
After the fibers have been successfully fused together, the bare fiber is protected either by re-applying a coating or by using a splice protector.