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Fiber-Optic Cleavers and Scribes![]()
XL411 Fiber Cleaver S90R Ruby Fiber Scribe Close-Up View FTDU Disposal Unit CSW12-5 Ceramic Fiber Scribe S90C Carbide Fiber Scribe ![]() Please Wait Thorlabs offers the CSW12-5 ceramic scribe, the S90R ruby-tipped scribe, the S90C carbide-tipped scribe, and the XL411 suspension cleaver as solutions for easy, manual cleaving of fibers. The CSW12-5 ceramic scribes are optimal for scoring and cleaving hard-coated and large-core fiber. The S90R ruby-tipped wedge scribe and the S90C carbide-tipped scribe can be used for easy scribing of excess fiber from ferrules in the connectorization process. The S90C in particular is adept at cleaving metal coated fiber. The XL411 suspension cleaver is an ideal solution for the high-quality, repeatable cleaves needed for fusion splicing of fiber optics. The FTDU provides a simple safe solution for disposing of all cleaved fiber ends. We recommend using such a disposal unit to protect against injuries caused by fiber shards. In addition, Thorlabs offers a variety of complementary products and tools for fiber termination. ![]() Click to Enlarge Figure 2: Hold the ceramic scribe at a 45° angle to the fiber. ![]() Click to Enlarge Figure 1: Hold the ruby scribe perpendicular to the fiber. The S90R, S90C, and CSW12-5 scribes are convenient, easy-to-use tools for scoring or cleaving fiber. They are used extensively when connectorizing or polishing fibers. Below is a simple step-by-step description on the most common usages for these scribes. For more detailed information on connectorization or polishing of fibers, please refer to the FN96A connectorization guide. Fiber ScoringScoring is a technique for cleaving a fiber that utilizes a scribe to make a small cut in the fiber (i.e., a score) that becomes a stress point for cleaving. Below are descriptions on how to use the S90R ruby scribe, the S90C carbide scribe, and the CSW12-5 ceramic scribe. For the S90R and S90C, the cutting edge of the scribe must be held perpendicularly to the protruding fiber. Figure 1 shows a fiber, protruding from a connector, undergoing scoring by a ruby scribe. The CSW12-5 ceramic scribe should be held at a 45° angle to the fiber so that the straight edge (i.e., any edge on the un-engraved side) is in contact with the fiber. As shown in Figure 2, this will result in the engraved side facing upwards. The engraved metric scale on the CSW12-5 can used to ensure repeatable cuts. While restraining the fiber, gently drag the scribe across the fiber at the desired location. Different optical fiber types will require different amounts of scoring. It will not take a lot of force to score the fiber, and the fiber should not break during scoring. If the fiber does break during scoring, it may produce a jagged edge that cannot be polished correctly; hence, care must be taken to prevent breakage during scoring. Over time, as the cutting edge progressively deteriorates, more pressure will be needed to score the fiber; keep in mind that undue pressure can lead to poor cuts. Once a fiber has been scored, it can be easily cleaved. From the scored side of the fiber, gently squeeze the fiber tip and pull straight away from the rest of the fiber (see Figure 4). Avoid bending or flexing the fiber. This should be all the force necessary to create a clean cleave. Multimode fibers may require slightly more force due to their larger core diameter. ![]() Click to Enlarge Figure 3: Ensure the fiber is secured and taut when cleaving or scoring. ![]() Click to Enlarge Figure 4: Pull the fiber straight back until the fiber is cleaved to ensure a clean break. Do not twist or bend the fiber. Fiber CleavingCleaving a fiber is a technique that is very similar to scoring. After preparing a fiber for cleaving, clean the bare fiber using a lint-free wipe moistened with isopropyl alcohol. Once clean, tape one end of the fiber to a bench or work station; leave about 6 mm between the edge of the table and tape. Figure 3 shows a fiber cable prepped for cleaving. When using this technique, it helps to secure the free end of the fiber to a support in order to help prevent against breaking the fiber on the edge of the table. Even the weight from a short section of fiber can be enough to cause the fiber to break. To start the cleave, pull the fiber taut and keep tension in the fiber as you cleave. Bring the scribe toward the fiber at a 45° angle for the ceramic scribe (see figure 2) or at a perpendicular angle for the ruby and carbide scribes (see figure 3). It's important to keep the proper amount of pressure on the scribe during this process. If too much pressure is applied to the scribe, the fiber will break, resulting in a jagged end, which may not be able to be polished correctly. Too little pressure and the fiber will not score enough to cleave cleanly. After the fiber has been scored, place a drop of water on the cleave site. Then apply pressure to the taped end of the fiber and, like with the scoring above, pull the fiber straight back until you cleave the fiber (see figure 4). Try to avoid any bending or flexing of the fiber, as this could affect the cleave. The end of the fiber may be inspected with an eye loupe or microscope. A good cleave will be flat across the fiber and perpendicular to the optic axis. There should be no 'tag' (i.e., protrusion) from the edge of the fiber. The region where the initial scribe was made may be visible. It should be less than 5% of the core diameter. If the cleave is not acceptable, repeat the cleaving process. ![]() Click to Enlarge XL411 Packaging
Smart Pack
Thorlabs' Smart Pack Initiative is aimed at waste minimization while still maintaining adequate protection for our products. By eliminating any unnecessary packaging, implementing packaging design changes, and utilizing eco-friendly packaging materials for our customers when possible, this initiative seeks to improve the environmental impact of our product packaging. Products listed above are now shipped in re-engineered packaging that minimizes the weight and the use of non-recyclable materials.b As we move through our product line, we will indicate re-engineered packages with our Smart Pack logo.
![]() ![]() The CSW12-5 has Straight and Micro-Serrated Edges
These Ceramic Fiber Optic Scribes have four straight edges for scoring fiber optics and four micro-serrated edges for glass-lined metal capillary and stainless steel hypodermic needle stock. Its hard ceramic (98% Al2O3) edges are capable of cleaving polyimide-, TECS-, or polymer-coated optical fiber. These scribes feature a large surface area for secure handling, are suitable for small or large core fibers, and have an engraved metric scale that can be used for quick and repeatable measurements. These ceramic scribes are autoclavable for applications that require sterile procedures. The straight edge is any edge on the un-engraved side, and the serrated edge is any edge on the engraved side. The edges can also be distinguished by running your fingernail along each edge; the straight edge will feel smooth, whereas the serrated edge will be noticeably rough. See the diagram to the right for details. The CSW12-5 scribes are designed for longterm use but will eventually dull. When all four sides of the scribe become dull, discard and replace with a fresh scribe. This will help to minimize adding undue force onto the fiber due to a dull edge. For information on scoring fiber with the ceramic fiber scribe, please see our Cleaving Guide tab above. ![]()
This Ruby Fiber Scribe has a 30°, single bevel, ruby blade with a 5.2 mm to 5.5 mm long contact area. The blade is reversible, which doubles the life of the scribe (see below for details). However, replacement blades are not available. The soft, non-slip grip provides precise control during scribing. The scribe is approximately 5" long from end to end. Each scribe comes with a clear safety cap to protect the blade from damage when not in use. Blade Reversal For information on scoring and cleaving fiber with the Ruby Fiber Scribe, please see our Scribe Guide tab above. ![]() ![]() Carbide Fiber Scribe has a Reversible Blade with 30° Bevel
This Carbide Fiber Scribe has a 30°, single bevel, carbide blade with a 5.2 mm to 5.5 mm long contact area. The blade is reversible, which doubles the life of the scribe (see below for details). However, replacement blades are not available. The soft, non-slip grip provides precise control during scribing. The scribe is approximately 5" long from end to end. Each scribe comes with a clear safety cap to protect the blade from damage when not in use. Carbide blades typically last two to three times longer than ruby or sapphire blades, and are recommended for use with our 0.22 NA Aluminum-Coated Multimode Fiber. Blade Reversal For information on scoring and cleaving fiber with a scribe, please see our Scribe Guide tab above. ![]()
The XL411 Suspension Cleaver has an easy to follow 3-step process that produces consistent 0.5° cleaves. For ease of use, this sequence is clearly indicated on the tool making this an ideal instrument for laboratory or production environments. Unlike rotating cleavers where the blade accesses the fiber from the side, the flat blade of the XL411 cleaves the fiber from the top, which results in the best cleave possible. The blades on this suspension cleaver last longer than traditional cleavers because the point of contact between the flat, rectangular blade and the fiber can be moved to reduce blade wear, providing up to 5000 cleaves per blade. In addition, the precision mechanical design of the XL411 allows the blade to be replaced quickly and precisely in any location. ![]()
The FTDU offers a safe solution for disposal of cleaved fiber ends, epoxy and syringes, and other sharp objects. This high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottle features a translucent lid with one circular and one rectangular hole in it (see the photo to the right). Both of these holes have individual covers that snap closed to keep the contents inside the unit. Tabs on the side of the lid hold the covers open for hands-free use. The two hole covers are connected by a plastic tab. Cut, or pull, the covers apart to use the holes separately. To use, insert sharps into one of the holes in the lid. Do not remove the lid itself from the unit. Use the "Contents" space on the label to clearly indicate what is inside. To protect against spills, keep the holes covered when not inserting sharps. When it is full, securely cover both holes in the lid by inserting the tab on the cover into the slot in the lid and dispose of the canister according to the contents. Do not fill the sharps container past the indicated "Full" line on the label. Do not reuse this unit; it is a one-time-use container only. | |||||||||||||||||
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