Fiber optic strippers for cleaning and stripping fiber optic cables

Fiber optic cables must be stripped carefully using precision strippers to remove protective coatings without damaging the glass fiber.

Understanding Fiber Optic Strippers

Fiber optic strippers are specialized hand tools designed to remove multiple layers of protective coatings from optical fibers, including the outer jacket, aramid yarn (strength members), buffer coating, and acrylate coating that protects the glass core and cladding. Unlike copper cable strippers, fiber strippers require high precision because even microscopic nicks or scratches can compromise signal integrity. Professional-grade strippers have multiple precision-ground or laser-drilled notches for different fiber diameters, typically 250µm, 900µm, and 125µm cladding.

Step-by-

Step Stripping Process

Prepare the Cable and ToolsWear safety glasses to protect your eyes from fiber shards. Use a sharps container for fiber scraps. Select the correct stripper groove for the layer you are removing (outer jacket, buffer, or acrylate coating),.

Strip the Outer Jacket

Measure about 2 inches (50mm) from the cable end. Place the cable in the largest groove of the stripper and gently squeeze to cut the jacket without nicking the fibers. Pull off the cut piece to expose the aramid yarn and buffer layers.

Cut Aramid Fibers

Use Kevlar scissors to trim the aramid yarn close to the jacket end, exposing the tight-buffered fiber.

Strip the Buffer Coating

Hold the fiber at a 45-degree angle to reduce stress. Strip the buffer in small increments (about 6–8mm at a time) to avoid breaking the fiber. If your stripper has multiple grooves, use the second groove for the 900µm buffer and the smallest groove for the 250µm coating.

Repeat until the 125µm cladding is exposed.

Clean the Fiber

Wipe the stripped fiber with a lint-free cloth and alcohol to remove debris. Ensure the fiber is free of scratches or nicks before cleaving or connector termination.

Tips and Best Practices

Take small, controlled cuts rather than trying to remove too much coating at once. Practice on spare fiber to develop a steady hand and proper angle. Use high-quality, professional strippers to minimize the risk of fiber damage.

Dispose of fiber scraps safely to prevent injury. By following these steps and using the correct tools, you can strip fiber optic cables safely and accurately, ensuring reliable splicing or connector termination.