What is optical fiber fusion splicing?
Optical fiber fusion splicing is a welded joint formed between two optical fibers. It is a permanent, low-loss, high-strength joint compared with other temporary joint such as a mechanical splice. Optical fiber fusion splices play a crucial role in the optical network. The Ideal Fusion Splicing Process The goal is to create a joint with minimum insertion loss yet with mechanical strength and long-term reliability that matches the fiber itself. The ideal process should be fast, inexpensive and should not require expensive equipment. But in reality the process needs trade-offs among different applications and requirements. For example, for undersea telecommunications, long-term reliability is the most important goal for a fusion splicing. The Advantages There are other approaches for interconnecting fibers such as fiber optic connectors and mechanical splicings. Compared to these two, fusion splicing has many advantages as explained below. 1. Very compact2. Lowest insertion loss3. Lowest
