Keeping Scratches to a Minimum After Using Final Film

by: FOC FAQ

FILM: Ask FOC Ask FOC

Published: May 1, 2019

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QUESTION:

How can we keep scratches to a minimum after using final film?

ANSWER:

We usually request a visual image of one or more scratches as well as geometry measurements of the connectors in order to answer this question. With this information, we try to understand the mechanical parameters applied to the film and connector. This includes various aspects of the entire lapping film operation: the polisher, lapping films, time, pressure, rotation speed, stability, applied fluids, cleaning procedures, and so forth.

Why such a thorough investigation? Because scratches might relate to issues in earlier steps in the assembly process. For example, epoxy application, epoxy mixing and/or outgassing, the curing schedule, and encapsulated humidity are common – and surprising – root causes for seeing scratches with a final film.

Also, the cleaning operation of the lapping films, connectors, and polishing fixture between polishing steps is often detected as a root cause for scratch generation. In fact, so-called “cross-contamination” is common when rough lapping film debris isn’t thoroughly removed when starting with a finer grit abrasive film.

(We recommend cost-effective silica carbide abrasive films for excess epoxy removal, followed by a finer grit abrasive film to establish a perfect geometry - contact FOC for more custom and specific film recommendations at (800) 473-4237 / 508-992-6464 or email: sales@focenter.com )

READ THE FULL BLOG ARTICLE HERE: Why Do Scratches Appear After Using the Final Film?

Answered by AskFOC Technical Team May 1, 2019

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FOC FAQ Fiber Optic Center has a team of technical experts and marketing strategists with decades of years in the field. This team contributes to the fiber, cable and specialty industries coverage through news, alerts, reports and general media information.

About Fiber Optic Center, Inc.

Fiber Optic Center, Inc., (FOC), is an international leader in distributing fiber optic components, equipment and supplies and has been helping customers make the best cable assemblies in the world for over two decades. Several areas of specialization and expertise, in which they are the industry leader, make them the preferred choice for many of the world’s fiber professionals. In these key technology areas, FOC is "at least as technical as the manufacturer" about the products they sell. Striving to "make the business part easy," they offer outstanding and personal customer service, low or no minimum purchase order values, and from-stock delivery on industry-leading products and technology. FOC is the industry connection to the most innovative optical products, technologies and technical experts who integrate their manufacturing knowledge and vast experience into customers' worldwide operations. @FiberOpticCntr

For further information contact:

Fiber Optic Center, Inc., 23 Centre Street, New Bedford, MA 02740-6322
Toll Free in US: 800-IS-FIBER or 800-473-4237 . Direct 508-992-6464. Email: sales@focenter.com or fiberopticcenter@focenter.com

For media contact:

Kathleen Skelton, Director of Strategic Marketing, C: 617-803-3014 . E: kskelton@focenter.com

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