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QUESTION:
We have issues with crystallized epoxy: has the epoxy had “gone bad”?
ANSWER:
This question has come up so often, I have written an article to educate our customers about crystallization in epoxies including information on:
How this...
QUESTION:
What is the process to follow if the step ferrules are not pre-angled?
ANSWER:
Polishing step ferrules: Angle cutting
If the step ferrules are not pre-angled, you must, of course, create the angle as part of the polishing process. A good general...
QUESTION:
What is Chemical Mechanical Planarization and how is it used in the fiber optic cable assembly process?
ANSWER:
CMP flock pile pads provide two functions in the polishing process for MT ferrules:
The primary purpose is to etch away the...
QUESTION: Does crimping weaken the cable assembly and optical connection? ANSWER: Crimping – a small but mighty step in the production process – strengthens the cable assembly and protects the fiber. Proper crimping techniques help to ensure the
...
QUESTION:
I found crystals in our epoxy. Does this mean it has gone bad?
ANSWER:
Crystallization in epoxies can look like salt granules in an otherwise clear liquid. Or the epoxy may look foggy, milky, or grainy. Or it may have solidified. Rest assured,...
QUESTION:
How do you safely dispose of epoxy?
ANSWER:
Once it cures and hardens, epoxy can be thrown away in regular waste. Think of it this way: You must allow a gallon of house paint to dry and harden before throwing it out. Liquid epoxy can be...
QUESTION:
How do you achieve the target fiber height of +/-20 nanometers?
ANSWER:
Today, fiber height is the easiest geometry parameter to control. How do you achieve the target fiber height of +/-20 nanometers?
The tightened tolerance of +/-20 is...
QUESTION:
When measured on my properly calibrated IL/RL meter, some of my patch cords show ‘gain.’ How can this be possible? Since a patch cord cannot have gain, is there something wrong with the instrument?
ANSWER:
If your IL/RL meter is properly...
QUESTION:
Why is bond line thickness important?
ANSWER:
Proper bond line thickness ensures you’ll achieve the adhesive properties AND performance specified in the epoxy’s datasheet. If there is inadequate bond line thickness, the risks include low...
QUESTION: Since cleanliness counts, how can I improve my epoxy work surface?
ANSWER:
The pot life on epoxy starts the moment the two parts are mixed. This means you need to plan your work, and have everything you need at your fingertips.
Here's a...
