QUESTION:
How do you ensure proper bond line thickness?
ANSWER:
Plan to test your bond line thickness – and other epoxy processes – to ensure they are optimal for your application.
Remember this rule of thumb: “The application dictates.”
When...
QUESTION:
What is the recommended needle size to dispense epoxy?
ANSWER:
With so many unique applications as well as connector sizes, the answer to this question truly does depend on your application. Needles range in gauge size and length; some have a...
QUESTION:
Which epoxies cause allergic reactions and which do not?
ANSWER:
Almost all epoxies used in the fiber optic industry are two-part epoxy systems consisting of a resin and a hardener or activator. All the chemicals in these two-part epoxies...
QUESTION:
How can I identify crystallization in epoxies?
ANSWER:
If you put a glass of water in the freezer for a few minutes, you’ll see ice crystals begin to form as the water changes to ice (its solid state). Similarly, crystals often form in epoxies....
QUESTION: What happens if you undermix epoxy?
ANSWER:
In fiber optic cable assembly applications, most epoxy package sizes are quite small – just a few grams – so undermixing is typically not an issue. While mixing the resin and hardener (Part A and...
QUESTION: Does FOC has some epoxy curing tips for when issues occur?
ANSWER:
Tips regarding epoxy curing issues:
To validate your epoxy curing process, we recommend following the Telcordia GR-326 adhesive testing standard (section 4.4.4.2).
Avoid...
QUESTION: What happens if you have too much epoxy inside the ferrule holder?
ANSWER:
Too much epoxy inside the ferrule holder can lead to other issues—for example, the inserted fibers will displace the injected epoxy so that it flows out the rear of the...
QUESTION: What size syringe needle should I use for injecting epoxy into connectors?
ANSWER:
Most common connectors are machined to accept buffer tubes of 0.9mm (900um, or 0.036”) diameter. Thus, it is recommended to use similar diameter...
QUESTION: When you’re setting up your process and determining how much epoxy to dispense into a ferrule, how can you be sure you have the proper fill inside the ferrule?
ANSWER:
Here’s a simple tip: Use a scrap piece of 900-micron cable as a dipstick...
Question:
Is there a way to avoid wasted epoxy?
ANSWER:
Given that 2.5 grams is the smallest size that is practicably achievable, FOC recommends saving any extra epoxy in a secondary dispensing container (like a syringe), frozen at -40°C. -40°C...
