This document provides an orientation to fusion splicing technology for optical fibers and fiber optic cable. It is intended for managers, designers, installers, and repair and maintenance personnel who need to understand the process of fusion splicing. This technology is widely used in telecommunications and industrial applications, and is finding acceptance in aerospace applications.
Rationale:
The aerospace industry has successfully integrated fiber optics as a viable technology for transmission of light. Fiber optic connectors, both for new connections and field repairs, continue to present issues with acquisition and life cycle costs. Fusion splices can be used for permanent fiber connections with a significant reduction in cost and improvement in loss and stability. Another application being discussed is the use of fusion splicing to splice pre-installed fiber optic cable assemblies onto pigtailed connectors, allowing non-terminated cables to be easily routed into a structure and terminated during the final assembly phase. Specifically designed fusion splicers can be used in explosive environments found in aerospace.
