What is Fusion Splicing?

This is a method of connecting two pieces of optical fiber. The ends of two pieces of fiber are mated in a precise way so that light can travel through the fiber. The joining of the two fiber ends must be done in such a manner that the light is not scattered as it passes through the location of the two spliced ends. This process is used when a cable has been severed and needs to be repaired or the cable just needs to be lengthened. This method of splicing welds and permanently connects two optical fibers together. This splice in many instances produces nearly zero reflection and provides consistent results when done by a trained installer.

What is Fusion Splicing Used for ? 

This method of using a fusion splicer is currently the most common type of splicing used in the fiber optic industry. There is no question that this method has the lowest reflection when connecting two pieces of fiber. The light that passes through this type of connection produces very little refraction. The area that surrounds the fusion as well as the fusion itself has virtually the same strength as the two pieces of fiber it joins.

Types of Fusion Splicers on the Market 

CORE ALIGNMENT SPLICERS (three-axis alignment)
This type of splicer is ideal for fusing singlemode fiber because it provides very precise fiber core alignment which is necessary for small core fibers. Typical splice loss is only 0.02dB when verified with OTDR testing. Core alignment splicers are essential if you are splicing new fiber to older legacy fiber, which tends to have inconsistent core geometry. Core alignment splicers can also be used to enhance the performance of multimode fiber.

ACTIVE V-GROOVE SPLICERS (movable V-groove)
Some newer types of clad alignment splicers have an "active" (movable) V-groove. This mechanism provides more precise fiber alignment than a "fixed" v-groove splicer. The accuracy of this new type of splicing machine makes it well suited for single mode fiber splicing, FTTx applications and splicing done in the manufacture of optical components.

CLADDING ALIGNMENT SPLICERS (fixed-groove, single-axis alignment)
Commonly used for ribbon splicing, this splicer aligns fiber along a single axis. Internal cameras and a fixed-groove aid in the alignment of the fibers. Clad Alignment Splicers have a typical splice loss of 0.05dB SM and are suited for multimode fiber or single mode fiber applications.

A quality fusion splicer will align and fuse fibers so precisely that the splice will not significantly impede data throughput along the optic link. A good fusion splicer will provide you with important splicer information such as system status, splice loss values, diagnostics, maintenance information, arc test results, help menus and more. Choose a fusion splicer that has a display screen that is easy to read under various lighting conditions.