QUESTION: Is a static mixer the recommendation for fiber optic epoxies? ANSWER: Almost all epoxies used in fiber optics are two part and have dissimilar mix ratios. This, coupled with the relatively small amount of material being applied, means a static mixer...
QUESTION: How can we reduce the risk of dermatitis when working with epoxies? ANSWER: To reduce the risk of either of these types of dermatitis, let’s begin with a common phrase: SAFETY FIRST. It is important to prepare and protect yourself from coming in...
QUESTION: Can small amounts of epoxy inside the ferrule be observed after curing? ANSWER: Too little epoxy inside the ferrule CANNOT be observed / tested-for after curing. Therefore, processes and controls MUST be implemented which ensure consistent and...
QUESTION: How much is enough or the right amount of epoxy in the connector? ANSWER: The answer is dependent on internal connector design, fiber diameters, epoxy type and application methods. For detailed information on internal connector design, the fiber diameters...
QUESTION: We are a fiber optic cable assembly manufacturer. For epoxy bi-packs, what are the typical package sizes? ANSWER: For fiber optic cable assembly manufacturers, bi-packs of 2.5-gram and 4-gram are typical package sizes for epoxy. While these packages...
QUESTION: When working with epoxies, are there different types of skin irritations or allergies? ANSWER: The two types of Contact Dermatitis are Irritant and Allergic: Irritant Contact Dermatitis is an inflammatory reaction that occurs after damage to...
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 developing a new...
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 tapered...
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 can...
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 Part...
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 (just as...
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 placing curing...
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 ferrule...
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...
