How to use an indoor optical cable stripper

An indoor optical cable stripper is used to carefully remove the protective layers of a fiber optic cable without damaging the delicate glass core, preparing it for splicing or connector installation.

Safety First

Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from fiber shards, and dispose of all fiber scraps properly to avoid injury or contamination. Handle the fiber gently to prevent breakage.

Step-by-

Step Stripping Process

Cut the Cable JacketUse kevlar scissors or a cable cutter to cut the fiber optic cable to the desired length. If your cable has aramid yarn (strength fibers), cut these close to the jacket end and wind them into a bundle for easier handling.

Strip the Outer Jacket

Place the cable in the largest groove of the optical fiber stripper. Gently squeeze the jaws to cut the outer jacket without nicking the fiber. Pull off the cut piece of the jacket.

Strip the Buffer Coating

For a 900µm buffer, use the middle groove of the stripper. Strip in small increments (about 6–8mm at a time) to reduce stress on the fiber. For a 250µm coating, use the smallest groove to expose the 125µm glass cladding.

Hold the stripper at a 45-degree angle to the fiber to minimize stress and prevent breakage.

Remove Aramid Fibers

After stripping the jacket and buffer, cut the exposed aramid fibers with scissors or pliers. Bundle them neatly to avoid interference during splicing or connectorization.

Final Inspection

Check the fiber for nicks, scratches, or breakage. Only proceed to splicing or connector installation if the fiber is clean and intact.

Tips for Effective Stripping

Use a professional-grade stripper with precision-ground or laser-drilled notches for each layer of the fiber. Strip in multiple small steps rather than trying to remove the entire coating at once. Practice on spare fiber to develop a steady hand and avoid damaging the glass core.

If using a thermal stripper, follow the manufacturer's instructions for heat settings to safely remove coatings without mechanical stress. By following these steps and using the correct grooves for each fiber layer, you can safely and efficiently prepare indoor optical cables for splicing or connectorization while maintaining signal integrity.