CLEAVING

ROUTINE FIBER CLEAVING USING FK11

1.         Prepare each fiber for cleaving by stripping all coating materials over a length of 4.5 to 5 cm, then cleaning the exposed fiber using a suitable solvent. A good “wetting” with the solvent also helps to reduce static on the fiber. Allow the fiber to dry fully before attempting to cleave the fiber.

N.B. ABSOLUTE CLEANLINESS IS VITAL TO GOOD CLEAVES. FAILURE TO CLEAN CAN CAUSE BLADE DAMAGE.

2.         Set all levers to the up position. With the levers in these positions, the clamps are open; the blade is back in the START position and the tension clamp to the READY position.

3.         Place the prepared fiber into the grooves (insert fiber from the left side of cleaver). Make sure the clean fiber sits well down in both grooves. NOTE: The scale on the left hand clamp is to assist in cleaving at a specified distance from the end of the primary coating. It indicates distance from the diamond blade in millimeters.

4.         Lower the right hand clamp lever (2) to the CLOSED position. Now lower the left hand clamp lever (1) fully to LOCKED position, then clamping the fiber. The right hand clamp lever should now be pressed fully down to the locked position, clamping the free end of the fiber.

5.         Move the lever labeled “3” smoothly downward to the TENSION ON position.

6.         Move the lever labeled “4” smoothly down to release the blade mechanism and cleave the fiber. The green LED will glow for approximately 3 seconds (this is to indicate that the blade is oscillating and the battery is in good condition).
            Raise level “4 “ to the LOCKED position, open the left hand clamp and remove the cleaved fiber. Return all levers to their START position (up), ready for the next cleave. Remove off cut and store it safely.

 

FK-11 Cleaver.