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    ST Connector Polishing and Rework Guidelines

    by:
    INTERCONNECT: Ask FOC Ask FOC
    Published: December 8, 2023
    , Last updated: February 6, 2025

    Question: 

    How many times can you run an ST Connector before the connector is no good. I have run STs three times and am still having a scratch issue. Thoughts?

    Answer:

    If you have polished off the entire chamfer of the ferrule, you have polished too much. However, the exact number of times you can rework an ST Connector (or any type of connector) depends on several factors:

    • Connector Standards:

      • Standards like IEC 61754-2 and TIA FOCIS-2 specify dimensions for ST Connectors, including the ferrule length necessary for the proper mating force.

    • Connector Vendor Specifications

      • The initial ferrule height can vary between manufacturers.

    • Initial Polishing Procedure

      • How well the connector was polished initially affects how much material can be removed later.

    • Rework Type and Procedure

      • Light scratches might be addressed with minimal material removal using fine polishing films, whereas deeper scratches or defects require coarser films, removing more material.


    The need for reworking is because the ferrule must maintain a specific length for enough mating force and good contact. Polishing reduces this length. It is important to be sure the ferrule remains within specification after each polish. To determine if you can continue reworking, measure the ferrule's length with a height gauge or micrometer.

    Generally, you might manage 2-3 reworks without issues if following standard procedures. However, this number can vary due to differences in polishing techniques, materials, and defect severity.For precision, establish a rework procedure tailored to the type of defect, minimizing unnecessary material removal. Checking the ferrule's height post-polish is advisable to ensure compliance with standards.

    For additional information on connectors design, types, applications, polishing considerations and properties comparisons, READ Fiber Optic Connectors Explained HERE

    Answered by AskFOC Technical Team, December 8, 2023

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    About the Author
    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.
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    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

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