Maintaining a clean fiber network is critical to minimizing attenuation and ensuring optimal performance. Follow these four expert tips to keep your fibers free from contamination:
1. Prioritize Cleaning at Key Moments.
To minimize network attenuation, your engineers must clean fiber cables at critical junctures. For instance:
- Before installation: Even brand-new fibers can accumulate dust and dirt during transportation or handling. Cleaning fibers prior to installation is essential.
- After cutting the cable: Any cuts can introduce microscopic dirt into the cable, risking contamination. Cleaning after each cut ensures the integrity of the fiber.
By focusing on cleaning during these crucial moments, you can eliminate the need for routine preventative cleaning. Avoid exposing fibers unnecessarily—each exposure increases the risk of contamination, requiring additional cleaning.
2. Use a Combination of Wet and Dry Cleaning Techniques.
Effective fiber cleaning requires more than just a dry wipe. Follow these guidelines:
- Opt for lint-free wipes: Standard wipes may leave fibers or debris behind, potentially worsening contamination.
- Combine wet and dry cleaning: Use an optical-grade cleaning fluid to slightly dampen the lint-free wipe before cleaning. This reduces the risk of creating an electrostatic charge on the fiber end, which can attract dust particles.
To avoid leaving a solvent film on the fiber, use the fluid sparingly. Providing your team with dispensing pumps ensures they apply the optimal amount each time.
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3. Conduct Thorough Inspections.
- Post-cleaning inspections are critical for identifying remaining contaminants. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Equip your engineers with fiber microscopes to detect even microscopic dirt particles.
- If contaminants are present, repeat the cleaning process with a new lint-free wipe to prevent reintroducing debris.
- Inspect again until the fiber is pristine and ready for use.
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4. Provide the Right Tools and Training.
Your engineers’ ability to maintain a clean fiber network depends on proper training and access to high-quality cleaning tools. Ensure they understand:
- The importance of cleaning and inspecting fibers at the right times.
- How to properly use lint-free wipes, optical-grade cleaning fluid, and microscopes for inspections.
Investing in the right tools and comprehensive training will empower your team to maintain a reliable, high-performing fiber network.
Find all Fiber Optic Cable hand tools here: https://georgiaunderground.net/categories/fiber-optic-cable-cable-handling-and-installation/cable-hand-tools.html
Georgia Underground Superstore is proud to carry a wide range of fiber optic cable tools and installation equipment. With a team backed by 30 plus years of experience, we can ensure that each customer walks away with all of the right tools needed for the job. Contact GUS today for personalized service that is unmatched in the industry!