Dimensions of Fiber Optic Strippers for Surveillance Use

Fiber optic strippers for surveillance applications are designed to handle standard 125 µm glass fibers with coatings typically ranging from 200 µm to 900 µm, and jackets up to 3.5 mm, using precision-engineered holes or notches to avoid glass damage.

Standard Fiber and Coating Sizes

Most fiber optic strippers are designed for 125 µm glass cores, which is the standard for single-mode and multi-mode fibers. The coating diameters vary depending on the fiber type:

• Standard telecommunication fibers: 250 µm coating over 125 µm glass
• Thinner specialty fibers: 200 µm coating for high-density applications
• Tight-buffered fibers: 900 µm coating
• Jacketed fibers: up to 3.5 mm outer diameter for cable jackets These dimensions are critical for selecting the correct stripper, as the tool's precision holes or V-grooves must match the fiber coating to prevent nicks or scratches on the glass.

Stripper Types and Hole Dimensions

Fiber strippers come in several types, each suited for different fiber diameters and coatings:

• Single-hole strippers: Typically for 250 µm coatings on 125 µm glass; some variants support 200 µm coatings
• Two-hole or three-hole combo strippers: Can remove standard coatings, tight buffers, and sometimes jackets up to 3.5 mm
• Fiber jacket strippers: Designed for outer jackets ranging from 0.4 mm to 1 mm, leaving the fiber undamaged
• Adjustable strippers: Allow manual setting of the stripping diameter for non-standard or legacy fibers Mechanical strippers use precisely sized cavities to score the coating, while thermal strippers soften the coating with heat before removal, which is useful for multi-fiber ribbons or tough coatings .

Practical Considerations for Surveillance Applications

• Precision: Surveillance fibers often require minimal signal loss; using the correct stripper hole size is essential to avoid micro-cracks.
• Strip length: Typical stripping lengths are 30–40 mm, but adjustable tools allow customization for connectors or splicing trays .
• Tool maintenance: Clean and inspect stripping notches regularly to prevent debris from damaging fibers .
• Specialty fibers: Some surveillance systems use thinner or high-density fibers, requiring strippers with smaller holes or adjustable settings .

Summary

For surveillance use, fiber optic strippers should accommodate:

• Glass core: 125 µm
• Coating diameters: 200 µm, 250 µm, 900 µm
• Jacket diameters: 0.4 mm to 3.5 mm
• Strip lengths: 30–40 mm (adjustable if needed)
• Tool types: Single-hole, combo multi-hole, jacket strippers, or adjustable/thermal strippers Selecting the correct stripper ensures clean, precise stripping without damaging the fiber, which is critical for high-performance surveillance installations .