How does the consistency of the stripping length affect the packaging strength of the sensor?
The consistency of the stripping length significantly impacts the packaging strength and long-term reliability of an FBG sensor.
When an optical fiber’s coating is stripped to write an FBG, the bare glass fiber becomes exposed. This section is inherently more fragile than the coated fiber. Inconsistent stripping lengths can lead to:
- Stress Concentration: Variations in the stripped length can create uneven transition zones between the bare fiber and the remaining coated fiber or the sensor’s packaging material. This non-uniformity can lead to stress concentration points at these interfaces, making the sensor more susceptible to breakage under mechanical stress (e.g., tension, bending) or thermal cycling.
- Packaging Adhesion Issues: For packaged sensors, consistent stripping ensures a uniform surface for the packaging material to adhere to or encapsulate. Inconsistent lengths can result in variable adhesion quality or uneven embedding within the packaging, compromising the overall mechanical integrity and protection of the FBG.
- Reduced Lifetime: Over time, these weakened points caused by inconsistent stripping can lead to premature sensor failure, especially in demanding applications involving vibration, repeated strain, or temperature fluctuations.
Therefore, maintaining high consistency in the stripping length during FBG manufacturing is crucial for ensuring uniform mechanical properties, robust packaging strength, and reliable long-term performance of the sensor.
Here is an example of a packaged FBG sensor, which relies on precise stripping and packaging for its strength:
You can find more details on bare FBGs, which undergo this stripping process, through these product links:
1 Like