FFS2000 Series Chapter 9: Proof Test (Item #s FFS2000PT and FFS2000WS)
Rev B, July 21, 2017 Page 59
9.3. Diagnostics
Problem Possible Cause Solution
Fiber Slips at very high tension
levels.
Proof test grips are dirty. Clean proof test grips with a cotton
swab dipped in alcohol.
Proof test grips are work out. Contact Thorlabs to order
replacements.
An additional fiber wrap around the
mandrel may be required.
When proof testing at high tension
levels, the fiber should be wrapped
twice around the proof test grips to
prevent slippage.
Proof test clamps are rubbing
against the rubber grips, preventing
the clamps from gripping the fiber.
Reposition the rubber grips to clear
the clamps.
Tension levels seem
extraordinarily high or low for the
particular fiber being tested.
Wrong fiber diameter entered. The fiber diameter is used in the
tension level calculation. Check the
current fiber diameter. If it is
incorrect, re-enter the fiber diameter
Wrong peak tension level set. Correct the peak tension level.
Splice breaks consistently 3/16"
to the left of the splice point.
Left fiber scraped against the
filament when placing or removing
the FHB at the splicing station.
Carefully place and remove the
FHBs from the splicing station.
Scraping the bare fiber against the
tungsten filament seriously
degrades the strength of the fiber.
Using the load fibers routine when
placing the fibers into the splice
head will ensure careful placement.
Fiber breaks at the strip point.
Stripper blades are out of
alignment.
Realign the stripper blades (refer to
the Maintenance section for
procedures).
Fiber breaks at the fusion point
with dark deposits on either side
of the splice
The fire polish process was not
selected.
Ensure that the fire polish is set to
on.
The fire polish power was set too
low.
Increase the fire polish power to the
same level as the splice power.
The gas flow rate was too low
during the fire polish.
Check that the argon gas flow is set
to the same value as for the splice
(0.5 – 0.65 l/min).
The argon gas supply is not of
sufficient purity
Refer to Section 3.2.1 for gas
supply specifications.