Articles by FOC FAQ

QUESTION: What happens if you overmix epoxy?   ANSWER: The possibility of overmixing is more likely. The goal is to thoroughly blend Part A and Part B with minimal bubbles. (In the production process, you don’t want to dispense a bubble instead of a drop...

QUESTION: How can one verify that epoxy processes are appropriate for the product?   ANSWER: The only way to verify that epoxy processes are appropriate for the product is through destructive product testing during process development. And since destructive...

QUESTION: How many different ways are there to terminate an optical fiber which is tight-buffered and where can I find more information on each?   ANSWER: There are many different ways to terminate an optical fiber that is tight buffered. Several are most...

QUESTION: Is a static mixer the recommendation for fiber optic epoxies?   ANSWER: Almost all epoxies used in fiber optics are two-part and have dissimilar mix ratios. This, coupled with the relatively small amount of material being applied, means a static...

QUESTION: What are the main applications and industries for optical fiber other than communication networks?   ANSWER: Optical fiber is used for many applications in almost every industry. The most common application is within cabled structures that are used...

QUESTION: If a fiber is damaged during stripping, will it affect the finished product?   ANSWER: A fiber that has been damaged during stripping may not break under normal handing during production assembly, but the defect remains in the finished...

QUESTION: For benchtop microscopes, what types of contamination are they best suited to identify?   ANSWER: Cleanliness can describe both permanent defects (example: cracks) and loose contamination defects (example: dirt, dust, cleaning solvent...

QUESTION: How can we reduce the risk of dermatitis when working with epoxies?   ANSWER: To reduce the risk of either of these types of dermatitis, let’s begin with a common phrase: SAFETY FIRST. It is important to prepare and protect yourself from coming...

QUESTION: What are the advantages of SMA connectors over others?   ANSWER: There are advantages that SMAs have, which are not shared by their more modern and recent connector-style cousins: Doctors are familiar, and comfortable, working with SMAs on...

QUESTION: When cleaning polishing fixtures, does the entire object need to be submerged in an ultrasonic bath?   ANSWER: Because the cavitation occurs within the water medium only, it is important that the entire object be submerged, with no air bubbles...