Expert Tips for Fiber Optic Polishing: Maximizing Performance with Lapping Film

Expert Tips for Fiber Optic Polishing: Maximizing Performance with Lapping Film

Fiber optic polishing is a critical process in optical communications, ensuring high-performance connections with minimal signal loss. Using the right lapping film and proper techniques can significantly enhance the quality of optical fiber end surfaces, improve 3D geometry parameters, and extend the lifespan of polishing tools. Below are expert polishing tips for fiber optics engineers working with a range of fiber optic components and connectors.

1. Understanding Fiber Optic Polishing Applications

Fiber optic polishing encompasses various applications, including:

• Optical fiber end-face polishing to achieve precise connector mating.

• Jumper and pigtail polishing for low insertion loss and high return loss.

• Connector polishing (FC, SC, ST, LC, MU, MTRJ, MPO, FA, PLC, etc.) to ensure optimal performance.

• Glass fiber, metal ferrule, and capillary polishing for various optical communication components.

Each application requires specific polishing techniques and materials to ensure smooth, defect-free end faces.

2. Selecting the Right Lapping Film

Choosing the right lapping film is essential for achieving superior results. Consider the following options:

• Diamond Lapping Film: Ideal for precision polishing of ceramic ferrules and glass fiber, providing high durability and consistency.

• Silicon Carbide Lapping Film: Used for initial material removal, especially in metal ferrule polishing.

• Aluminum Oxide Lapping Film: Suitable for final polishing, delivering a smooth, defect-free surface.

• Final Polishing Film (Silicon Dioxide-Based): Recommended for the ultimate mirror finish and to enhance 3D geometry parameters.

3. Key Parameters for Optimal Polishing

Achieving good 3D parameters ensures excellent optical performance. Key factors include:

• Vertex Offset: Ensuring the fiber core is perfectly aligned to minimize insertion loss.

• Fiber Height: Controlling the fiber protrusion or recession for proper end-face geometry.

• Curvature Radius: Maintaining optimal convexity to ensure proper mating.

• Extended Life of Polishing Tools: Using high-quality lapping films and proper cleaning methods extends the life of fixtures and tools.

4. Step-by-Step Polishing Guide

1. Preparation

   • Inspect connectors for damage or contamination.

   • Use high-quality cleaning solutions to remove debris before polishing.

   • Secure the connector in the polishing jig properly.

2. Rough Grinding

   • Use 9µm or 5µm Diamond Lapping Film for initial material removal.

   • Apply consistent pressure and use a recommended polishing motion (figure-eight or circular).

3. Intermediate Polishing

   • Utilize 3µm and 1µm Diamond Lapping Film to refine the surface and reduce scratches.

   • Check fiber height and curvature radius periodically.

4. Final Polishing

   • Use 0.02µm Silicon Dioxide Final Polishing Film to achieve a mirror finish.

   • Apply light pressure and ensure even polishing for optimal return loss.

5. Inspection and Quality Control

   • Use an interferometer to check 3D geometry (curvature, apex offset, and fiber height).

   • Inspect under a fiber scope for any scratches or defects.

   • Perform insertion loss and return loss testing to ensure compliance with industry standards.

5. Best Practices for Improved Efficiency

• Maintain Clean Work Environment: Prevent contamination that can introduce defects.

• Use High-Quality Fixtures: Ensure consistent pressure and alignment for uniform polishing.

• Follow Proper Water and Slurry Usage: Using distilled water with certain films enhances polishing effectiveness.

• Regularly Replace Lapping Films: Overused films reduce polishing quality and increase the risk of defects.

• Monitor Equipment Calibration: Ensure polishing machines and interferometers are properly calibrated.

6. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Conclusion

By following these expert tips and best practices, fiber optics engineers can achieve consistent, high-quality results in fiber optic polishing. Proper selection and use of lapping films, coupled with precise polishing techniques, are key to ensuring superior optical performance and longevity of fiber optic components.

Polishing connector type: Fc / Pc Fc / Apc Sc / Pc Sc / Apc St / Pc St / Apc Lc / Mu Mt-Rj 8 Deg. Or 0 Deg Mpo Mpx Mtp, E2000, D4 Etc Bd. In Addition, The Polishing film Is Able To Polish Sm, Mm And Pm Optical Fiber Connectors And Other Specialized Types. 

Applications:
1.ZrO2 Ceramic Ferrules
2.Quartz capillary
3.Glass materials
4.Stainless steel and titanium alloy
5.Colophony material
6.Multiple connectors : SC/LC/FC/ST/MU/MPO/E2000 (LSH) and more.. 

Lapping process of optical fiber jumper

Ceramic Connector Polishing

MT MPO Connector Slurry Polishing

MT MPO Connector Di Water Polishing

What’s more, the life time of XYT Diamond Laping Film is over 30 plates, while XYT's ADS is over 10 plates, which will help you save a great amount of cost.

During the process please use our suggested polish pads, do the cleaning accordingly and set the working time correctly, so you will get the ideal finish for your Ceramic Connectors.