19
SECTION F
Polishing Process for Single-mode Connector Return
Loss >40dB
7. PREPARE TO PERFORM THE FINAL POLISH
Using an isopropyl alcohol dampened lint-free cloth, clean the
ferrule and the polishing jig.
Clean a sheet of the final polishing film and place it shiny side
down onto the clean polishing pad. Section the film into four (4)
quarters. Mark the section 1, 2, 3 and 4. Place a few drops of
water on section 1 of the film (Fig. F9).
8. PERFORM THE FINAL POLISH
Insert the ferrule into the jig and lower it gently onto the moistened
polishing film.
Using the same medium pressure as in step 6, perform small
circles in a spirograph pattern as shown in (Fig. F10). Perform 25
circular strokes. Wipe the ferrule dry with a lint-free cloth and
inspect the ferrule end using the 100X microscope. The fiber
should be completely smooth and free of any scratches (Fig. F11).
If scratches are present in the fiber, perform an additional 3 to 5
strokes on an unused area of the film and inspect again. If
necessary a final lapping of 3 to 5 strokes can be performed.
Note: The final polishing film can be used to polish up to 4
ferrule ends. Be sure to use a fresh area of the polishing
film each time a new connector is to be polished.
Fig. F9
Fig. F10
Fig. F11