Hot Water Straightening Light Guides Procedure

Overview

The optical fibers received from Saint Gobain Crystals are shipped via large diameter cardboard spools. As a result the optical fibers, when unspooled, tend to have an intrinsic curvature to them. It is very difficult to manipulate thirty 5+ foot curved fibers during bundle construction. For this reason the fibers are first straightened using a heat treating process. This process not only helps to alleviate stresses within the fibers due to the manufacturing process. By minimizing the internal stress of the fibers we can reduce the risk of crazing or fracture that otherwise might occur during the bundle manufacturing process.

Procedures

• Note: the fiber straightening procedure will require 2 technicians.

• Make room at a table for the aluminum U bar.

• If the Unistrut bar is not in the heat treating pipe, and if the collars have been removed, set out:
  • 6 or 7 light guide collars
  • 12 or 14 half inch 440 screws.
  • Bundling tool
  • aluminum bar

• Don a clean pair of gloves