Achieve Consistent Geometry and Fiber Height with XYT Polishing Films for MT Connector Polishing Operations

Achieve Consistent Geometry and Fiber Height with XYT Polishing Films for MT Connector Polishing Operations

To polish MPO/MTP fiber patch cable connectors to meet industry quality standards, you must follow a precise process that ensures the connectors' performance and reliability. The two major standards governing fiber optic connector quality include the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) standard and the TIA (Telecommunications Industry Association) standard. Here's an overview of these standards along with the polishing process:

1. IEC Standards for MPO/MTP Fiber Patch Cable Connectors

The IEC sets standards for the quality of fiber optic connectors, including MPO/MTP connectors. The key IEC standards related to fiber optic connectors are:

• IEC 61754-7 (MPO/MTP Connector Standard):

  • This standard defines the physical interface for MPO/MTP fiber optic connectors. It specifies dimensions, performance requirements, and testing procedures.
  • MPO connectors (used for high-density fiber applications) are described in this standard, ensuring the connector’s compatibility with other equipment and its optical performance.

• IEC 61300-3-35 (Inspection of Connector End Faces):

  • This standard focuses on the visual inspection and evaluation of fiber optic connector end faces, including MPO/MTP connectors. It specifies guidelines for inspecting fiber optic connectors for defects such as scratches, cracks, or contamination.
  • It outlines acceptable criteria for the connector's end-face geometry and optical quality, which are critical for ensuring proper insertion loss and return loss.

2. TIA Standards for Fiber Patch Cable Connectors

In addition to IEC standards, the TIA (Telecommunications Industry Association) has developed standards for fiber optic connectors, particularly the TIA-568 series, which includes recommendations for MPO connectors. The standards that apply to MPO connectors and their quality include:

• TIA-568-C.0/C.1:

  • Defines the minimum requirements for fiber optic cable and connector systems used in commercial premises wiring. This includes the use of MPO/MTP connectors for high-density applications.
  • Specifies connector loss limits, ensuring that connectors are polished to meet performance standards like insertion loss and return loss.

• TIA-568.3-D:

  • Covers the optical performance requirements for multi-mode fiber systems, including MPO/MTP connectors. It specifies the required insertion loss and return loss limits for multi-mode systems, as well as recommendations for proper polishing.

3. Quality Standards for MPO/MTP Fiber Connectors (Based on IEC & TIA)

When polishing MPO/MTP connectors, you must ensure that they meet certain quality standards related to insertion loss, return loss, and end face quality. These are some of the most important quality criteria:

Insertion Loss (IL)

• Insertion loss is the reduction in signal strength when light passes through the connector. The polishing process must ensure that the fiber ends are perfectly aligned, with minimal loss.
  • IEC/TIA Standard: Typically, the insertion loss for each MPO/MTP connector should be ≤ 0.3 dB.
  • Best Practice: Aim for ≤ 0.1 dB for higher-quality connectors.

Return Loss (RL)

• Return loss refers to the amount of light reflected back due to imperfections in the connector end face. A good polishing process minimizes reflection.
  • IEC/TIA Standard: Return loss should be ≥ 50 dB for multi-mode connectors and ≥ 60 dB for single-mode connectors.
  • Best Practice: Achieving return loss values well above 50 dB helps to avoid signal interference.

End Face Quality

• The fiber end face must be flat and smooth to ensure proper connection and signal transfer. Polishing must eliminate any scratches, chips, or contamination from the fiber's end.
  • IEC 61300-3-35 sets the criteria for inspecting the end face. Acceptable defects such as scratches, pits, and contamination should be within the limits outlined in the standard. For MPO connectors, defects should not affect signal transmission or return loss.
  • Acceptable Defects:
    • No visible cracks or chips.
    • Scratch length: Should not exceed 1 mm in length.
    • Scratch depth: Should not exceed 5 µm.

Fiber Height and Alignment

• The fiber ends must be aligned with the connector ferrule, and the fiber height should be consistent.
  • IEC/TIA Standard: Fiber height variation should be ≤ 0.1 µm from the center of the ferrule.
  • Alignment: All fibers in the MPO connector should be aligned for optimal signal transmission.

4. Polishing Process for MPO/MTP Connectors

Here’s a step-by-step guide for polishing MPO/MTP fiber patch cable connectors according to the required standards:

Step 1: Pre-Polishing Preparation

• Tools & Equipment: Prepare the required tools, including a polishing machine, polishing films, inspection tools, and cleaning agents.
• Connector Inspection: Inspect the MPO/MTP connectors for any damage or defects before starting the polishing process.

Step 2: Coarse Polishing

• Polishing Film: Use SC15B (15 µm Silicon Carbide) or similar coarse film.
• Pressure: Apply 2000g pressure.
• Speed: Set the machine to 100 RPM.
• Time: Polish for 60 seconds to remove excess material.

Step 3: Intermediate Polishing

• Polishing Film: Use SC3D (3 µm Silicon Carbide).
• Pressure: Apply 4000g pressure.
• Speed: Set the machine to 120 RPM.
• Time: Polish for 90 seconds to refine the surface.

Step 4: Fine Polishing

• Polishing Film: Use SC1A (1 µm Silicon Carbide) or finer film.
• Pressure: Apply 6000g pressure.
• Speed: Set the machine to 150 RPM.
• Time: Polish for 120 seconds to smooth the surface.

Step 5: Final Polishing

• Polishing Film: Use CE0.5B (0.5 µm Cerium Oxide).
• Pressure: Apply 7000g pressure.
• Speed: Set the machine to 160 RPM.
• Time: Polish for 200 seconds to achieve the desired optical finish.

Step 6: Cleaning

• After each polishing step, clean the connectors thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol or a specialized cleaning solution to prevent contamination.

Step 7: Inspection

• Use a fiber optic microscope to inspect the connector end face.
• Ensure that the end face is free of scratches, chips, and contamination.
• Measure the fiber height and alignment to ensure compliance with the IEC/TIA standards.

Step 8: Testing

• Perform insertion loss and return loss tests to verify that the connector meets performance standards:
  • Insertion Loss: ≤ 0.3 dB (target ≤ 0.1 dB).
  • Return Loss: ≥ 50 dB (multimode), ≥ 60 dB (single-mode).

Polishing MPO/MTP fiber patch cable connectors to meet IEC and TIA standards requires following a structured process to ensure optimal performance. The key parameters include insertion loss, return loss, end face quality, and fiber height alignment. Adhering to the proper polishing steps and standards guarantees that the connectors will perform reliably in high-speed, high-performance fiber optic networks.

XYT has designed a high-performance polishing film specifically for MT connector polishing operations, ensuring that geometry and fiber height requirements are consistently met. This innovation is a significant advancement in the field, providing unmatched precision and reliability.

Features of XYT Polishing Films

1. Smooth Polishing with Minimum Scratches

   • The polishing film is engineered to deliver a smooth surface finish with minimal scratches, enhancing the overall quality of the polished connectors. This ensures optimal performance and longevity of the connectors.

2. No Binder Contamination

   • During the polishing process, it is crucial to maintain the purity of the optical fiber. XYT's polishing films are designed to prevent any binder contamination, ensuring that the optical fibers remain clean and free of any unwanted residues.

3. Repeatable, Precision Finishes

   • XYT's lapping and polishing films offer repeatable and precision finishes, even on the hardest materials. These materials include glass, silicon carbide, sapphire, ceramic, and other hard and brittle surfaces. The consistent performance of these films makes them an ideal choice for high-precision applications.

Customization to Suit Performance Requirements

The polishing films are available with various surface textures and particle densities, tailored to meet the specific performance requirements of the end user. This customization allows users to select the most suitable film for their unique applications, ensuring optimal results.

Application-Specific Polishing Solutions

The type of polishing film or pad used depends on the specific requirements of the application. XYT offers a range of films designed for different polishing needs:

• Glass Polishing: Achieving a flawless finish on glass surfaces.
• Silicon Carbide Polishing: Handling the toughness of silicon carbide with precision.
• Sapphire Polishing: Providing a smooth and scratch-free finish on sapphire.
• Ceramic Polishing: Ensuring consistent and precise finishes on ceramic materials.

Conclusion

XYT's innovative polishing films are a game-changer for MT connector polishing operations. With features like smooth polishing, no binder contamination, and repeatable precision finishes, these films provide unparalleled performance and reliability. The ability to customize the films to suit specific performance requirements makes them an essential tool for achieving optimal results in various high-precision applications. Trust XYT for all your lapping and polishing needs and experience the difference in quality and consistency.