How do you maintain and calibrate your optical fiber cleaver for optimal performance and accuracy?

2 Clean the cleaver components

Another factor that can affect the performance and accuracy of your optical fiber cleaver is dust, dirt, or debris that may accumulate on the cleaver components, such as the blade, the clamp, the guide, or the fiber holder. These contaminants can interfere with the cleaving process, causing uneven or angled cuts, or damaging the fiber. To avoid this, you should clean the cleaver components regularly with a soft cloth, a brush, or a compressed air can. You should also use a lint-free wipe and alcohol to clean the blade after each use.

3 Adjust the cleave length

The cleave length is the distance between the end of the fiber and the clamp that holds it in place. This parameter affects the tension applied to the fiber during the cleaving process, and thus the quality of the end-face. If the cleave length is too short or too long, it can result in incomplete or excessive cleaves, or fiber breakage. To adjust the cleave length, you should follow the instructions of your cleaver manufacturer, and use a ruler or a gauge to measure it accurately.

4 Align the fiber properly

The alignment of the fiber is another critical factor for achieving optimal performance and accuracy with your optical fiber cleaver. The fiber should be placed in the center of the blade, parallel to the guide, and perpendicular to the clamp. Any deviation from these positions can cause the fiber to bend, twist, or slide during the cleaving process, leading to poor or inaccurate cuts. To align the fiber properly, you should use the markings or indicators on your cleaver, and make sure the fiber is secured by the clamp.

5 Perform a test cleave

A test cleave is a simple way to verify the performance and accuracy of your optical fiber cleaver before using it for a real installation. A test cleave involves cutting a short piece of fiber with your cleaver, and inspecting the end-face with a microscope or a visual fault locator (VFL). You should look for any defects or irregularities on the end-face, such as cracks, chips, hackles, or angles. If you find any, you should repeat the previous steps until you achieve a smooth and perpendicular end-face.

6 Calibrate the cleaver periodically

The last step to maintain and calibrate your optical fiber cleaver for optimal performance and accuracy is to perform a calibration procedure periodically. A calibration procedure is a process that adjusts the settings of your cleaver according to a standard or a reference. This ensures that your cleaver is consistent and reliable over time, and that it meets the specifications of your installation. To perform a calibration procedure, you should follow the instructions of your cleaver manufacturer, and use a calibration tool or device if required.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?