Fiber optic connector connection failure

Why do fiber optic connectors fail? Wondering what diagnostic methods are available to help troubleshoot fiber optic connector failures? The diagnostic method is a cross-section fiber optic connector. This technology allows us to actually look inside the fiber optic connector to see defects and pinpoint the cause of failure.

Let's look at an example:

This is a photo I took when I cut the fiber optic connector for a customer. Fiber optic connectors are first vacuum impregnated with metallographic grade epoxy. It is then cut into various locations and terminates at approximately the longitudinal midpoint of the fiber in the ceramic ferrule.

Cross-sectioning allows us to zero in on specific areas of fiber optic connector assemblies to identify potential defects. In analyzing fiber optic connectors of this cross-section, I found several localized fiber breaks in critical areas and one complete fiber break.

Fiber optic connector failure

In these zoomed-in images of fiber optic connectors, note the partial break of the fiber at a critical location.

The optical fiber connector

Here's another zoomed-in image of the same fiber optic connector. Note the local breakage of the fibers within the range of the fiber-bonded epoxy.

In the same fiber optic connector, the gap between the epoxy bonded fiber and the inner surface of the fiber optic connector indicates that the epoxy bonded fiber exhibits significant shrinkage. In the image above, note the apparent shrinkage of the fiber bonded epoxy at the red arrows.

Cross-sectional analysis is an effective diagnostic tool and a practical solution for identifying process problems that can be resolved.

As can be seen from the image above, cross-sectioning provides the unique ability to identify and isolate problems associated with fiber terminations that are otherwise invisible. The cross-sectional service of the fiber center can reveal breaks, nicks, microbends, shrinkage and microcracks in the fiber. Insufficient/too much epoxy or bubbles in the epoxy; and problems with peeling, curling, etc.

When a fiber optic connector fails, a cross section can help determine the cause and identify process issues. Fiber Center customers rely on this diagnostic service to visually analyze their fiber optic connectors, identify defects, diagnose potential causes and implement process improvements.

This enables you to perform regular audits and rapid failure analysis when implementing internal horizontal functions.

I encourage you to consider implementing the cross-section functionality internally in your own test environment. We can help you set up your equipment, then train you to perform the test and interpret the results. When a problem arises, you can call us - a resource you can trust.

When this capability is implemented in-house, routine cross sections can be performed to monitor the quality of fiber optic cable assemblies. Additionally, you can perform rapid failure analysis within hours for immediate problem resolution.