Key points to remember about MPO polishing parameters

Polishing Films for MPO / MT Connectors

Here are the key points to remember about MPO polishing parameters to ensure high-quality and reliable performance in multi-fiber optical connectors:

1. Connector Type and Configuration

• MPO connectors are multi-fiber push-on connectors used for high-density optical connections.
• Understanding the fiber count and connector configuration (e.g., 12-fiber, 24-fiber MPO) is crucial for selecting the right polishing parameters.

2. Polishing Film Selection

• Silicon Carbide (SiC) films are often used for coarse and intermediate polishing stages (e.g., 30 µm to 1 µm).
• Cerium Oxide (CeO2) Flocked Films are typically used for the final polishing stage (e.g., 0.5 µm or less) to achieve a mirror-like finish and optimal optical performance.
• Silicon Dioxide Flocked Films can also be used in certain polishing steps for ultra-fine finishes.

3. Polishing Stages and Sequence

• Coarse Polishing: Removes excess epoxy and flattens the ferrule surface (typically with SiC films in 30-15 µm grit sizes).
• Intermediate Polishing: Further refines the surface and reduces any scratches (using SiC in 9-3 µm grit sizes).
• Pre-Final Polishing: Helps adjust the fiber height and smooths out any remaining imperfections (using 3-1 µm films).
• Final Polishing: Achieves a flawless finish, improving fiber height consistency and providing superior optical quality (using 0.5 µm flocked CeO2 or diamond films).

4. Fiber Height Adjustment

• Fiber height consistency is critical for proper signal transmission. Ensure fiber ends are flush or slightly recessed to avoid issues such as signal loss.
• Fiber Height Adjustments should be made during the pre-final polishing stage for optimal results.

5. Corrosion Dip (Corp Dip) Control

• Ensuring consistent and controlled corrosion dip application (if applicable) helps minimize the risk of contamination and enhances the finish quality.
• Properly managing the dip time and solution concentration is essential for consistent results.

6. Polishing Pressure and Time

• Maintain uniform pressure during the polishing process to prevent uneven polishing or surface defects.
• The polishing time will vary based on the connector type, film, and desired finish but should be closely monitored to ensure consistency.

7. Water Use and Cleanliness

• Use deionized (DI) water for cleaning and lubrication during polishing to avoid contaminating the connectors.
• Clean connectors thoroughly between polishing stages to remove any debris and ensure a smooth, contamination-free surface.

8. Inspection and Testing

• After polishing, inspect the fiber ends for scratches, chips, and fiber height using a fiber inspection scope.
• Testing the MPO connectors for insertion loss and return loss ensures that the connectors meet performance standards.

9. Standard Compliance

• Ensure compliance with industry standards like IEC 61754-7, Telcordia GR-1435-CORE, and TIA/EIA-568 for MPO connectors to guarantee optimal performance and reliability.

10. Consistency and Reproducibility

• Use precise tools and maintain consistent polishing techniques to achieve reproducible results. Variations in technique can lead to defects and decreased connector performance.

By understanding and controlling these key parameters, you can optimize the polishing process and ensure high-quality, reliable MPO connectors for your fiber optic applications.

Shop Lapping film | XYT® Official Site | Save on Lapping film

MT ferrules are widely applied in multiple optical connectors like MPO/MTP, QSFP+ transceivers, active optical cables (AOC cable), and also suitable for custom designed passive or active fiber coupling packages. Fiber is secured to the ferrules with an optical connector grade thermal cure epoxy and can be polished with specially made Flock Pile Polishing Films. XYT has designed Polishing Film that achieves geometry and fiber height requirements consistently in your MT connector polishing operation.

MPO Slurries Polishing Process

MPO DI Water Polishing Process

The following steps outline the polishing process using XYT Polishing Films for MT (MPO) and other multi-fiber, thermoplastic ferrule applications:

1. Step 1: XYT-MPO-SC15

   • Film: 15 µm Silicon Carbide
   • Backing: 3 mil
   • Polishing Time: 50 seconds
   • Pressure: 2 pounds
   • RPM: 110
   • Polishing Pad: Glass Pad
   • Polishing Agent: DI Water

2. Step 2: XYT-MPO-SC3

   • Film: 3 µm Silicon Carbide
   • Backing: 3 mil
   • Polishing Time: 130 seconds
   • Pressure: 2 pounds
   • RPM: 130
   • Polishing Pad: Glass Pad
   • Polishing Agent: DI Water

3. Step 3: XYT-MPO-MT SC1 Flock/ SC1A

   • Film: 1 µm Silicon Carbide
   • Backing: 3 mil
   • Polishing Time: 140 seconds
   • Pressure: 5 pounds
   • RPM: 160
   • Polishing Pad: Glass Pad
   • Polishing Agent: DI Water

4. Step 4: XYT-MPO-MT CO OR XYT-MPO-MT SO2

   • Film: 0.02 µm Cerium Oxide or SiO2
   • Backing: 3 mil
   • Polishing Time: 40 seconds
   • Pressure: 5 pounds
   • RPM: 160
   • Polishing Pad: Glass Pad
   • Polishing Agent: DI Water

Connector Type: MT-Ferrule

XYT High-Performance Polishing Films

• XYT-MPO-SC15 (50 PCS/SET): 15 µm Silicon Carbide, 5" Round, 3 mil backing.
• XYT-MPO-SC3 (50 PCS/SET): 3 µm Silicon Carbide, 5" Round, 3 mil backing.
• MPO-MT SC1 Flock (50 PCS/SET): 1 µm Silicon Carbide, 5" Round, 3 mil backing.
• MPO-MT CO (50 PCS/SET): 0.02 µm Cerium Oxide, Flock Pile Final, 5" Round, 3 mil backing.
• MPO-MT SO2 (50 PCS/SET): SiO2 Film, SiO2 Flock Pile Final, 5" Round, 3 mil backing.

Lapping Film Features:

• Part Number: MPO-MT SC1 Flock
• Film Color: Grey
• Particle Type: Silicon Carbide
• Grit Size: 1 micron (1 µm)
• Flock Pile Material: Nylon
• Flock Pile Diameter: 5" disc
• Flock Pile Length: 0.6 mm
• Base Film Material: Polyethylene terephthalate
• Base Film Thickness: 2 mil (50 µm)
• Quantity: 50 discs

By following these steps and utilizing XYT's high-quality polishing films, you can achieve excellent polishing results for MT (MPO) and other multi-fiber connectors, ensuring optimal performance and durability in your optical networks.