Here is how the lapping film is typically used: After the epoxy is cured and the fiber is scribed it must be denubbed. This step usually requires a rough grit silicon carbide film, something between 16 um and 5 um, depending on the bead size. This allows for a consistent starting point for epoxy removal.
As a more aggressive material, Silicon Carbide is often recommended over Aluminum Oxide for epoxy and glass removal. We’d like to stop the epoxy removal step at the moment all epoxy is removed from all connectors, but because the epoxy bead differs, the connector protruding from the fixture might vary slightly. The springs might be a bit different or the polish, more likely than not, will start to cut into the ferrule. The ferrule will need to be reformed. The silicon carbide usually somewhat alters the ferrule.
READ THE BLOG: Do you want consistent polishing processes? Well let’s start with the polishing film
Additional resources from the FOC team include:
- Category Resource
- View the Glossary, Acronyms, Military Specifications for Connectors
- Q&A Resource: email technical questions to AskFOC@focenter.com
Have questions about this FOC Tip?
Contact FOC with questions at: (800) 473-4237 / 508-992-6464 or email: FiberOpticCenter@focenter.com and we will respond ASAP.
