FFS2000 Series Chapter 6: Fiber Preparation
Rev B, July 21, 2017 Page 39
Problem Possible Cause Solution
Heating time too long. If the fiber is pre-soaked, a long heating time may
dry out the soft buffer making it difficult to remove.
To avoid this the fiber should be stripped as soon
as possible after the heating element reaches the
proper temperature (indicator on steadily) or the
Boost Current should be reduced.
6.3. Cleaning the Fiber
The fiber is cleaned at the ultrasonic cleaning station. This removes any coating particles or residue left on the
glass surface that may reduce splice strength.
6.3.1. Setting Up
The appropriate parameters are stored in the Splice File and may be accessed in the fiber Preparation Menu in
the GUI.
Fiber Preparation Parameters
Check the parameters of the “Clean Time” and adjust as needed. Typical values range from 20 to 180 seconds,
depending upon solvent and inner coating composition. 30 seconds is a good starting clean time.
Note that parameter changes in the GUI are not saved into the Splice File (*.xml) until a file save is executed.
Cleaning Station Preparation
Make sure the cleaning solvent is “topped up.” It should be approximately 1/8" to 1/4" below the lip of the solvent
container.
6.3.2. Cleaning Procedure
Place the right FHB with the preloaded fiber on the right side dunking jig at the cleaning station. Inserting the FHB
locating posts into the dunking jig will activate the internal vacuum to the FHB V-groove. With the fiber secured in
the FHB, tilt the end of the dunking jig to immerse the fiber into the cleaning station.
Figure 40 Cleaning Procedure