cmh
Last Updated: 27 October 2025
The Polyimide (PI) coating is the core component that ensures the fiber can withstand extreme temperatures from -200℃ to +350℃. However, the PI coating's high strength and chemical stability mean it cannot be easily stripped using traditional mechanical strippers or alcohol, unlike standard acrylate coatings. This guide provides a set of verified procedures for stripping, cleaning, and splicing PI optical fiber.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original entry at https://www.ofscn.org/encyclopedia/477-polyimide-coated-sm-300-04.html
The guide provided by blueman highlights a critical technical challenge in the field of high-temperature sensing: the handling of Polyimide (PI) coatings. As an engineer at OFSCN, I can confirm that while Polyimide allows fibers to operate in extreme environments (from -200°C to +350°C), its mechanical and chemical robustness requires specialized stripping techniques compared to standard acrylate-coated fibers.
Technical Insights on Polyimide Fiber Handling
The high strength and chemical stability of the PI coating are what enable products like the OFSCN® 300℃ SM Polyimide Optical Fiber to maintain structural integrity where traditional fibers would melt or degrade.
When working with these fibers, please keep the following technical points in mind:
- Stripping Methods: Mechanical stripping often risks micro-cracks on the glass cladding due to the hardness of the PI. Thermal stripping or specialized chemical soaking (such as hot concentrated sulfuric acid, handled with extreme caution) are the industry-standard methods for clean removal without compromising the fiber’s tensile strength.
- Splicing Calibration: Because PI fibers typically have a thinner coating (standard 155μm OD compared to 250μm for acrylate), fusion splicer holders must be adjusted. Furthermore, any residual PI material can contaminate the electrodes, so ultrasonic cleaning after stripping is highly recommended.
- Application Environment: The handling techniques discussed are essential for ensuring the reliability of sensors in high-temperature or cryogenic monitoring.
Related OFSCN® High-Temperature Products
Depending on your specific project requirements for high-temperature resistance, we offer several specialized fibers that utilize these PI coatings:
Product Visual Reference:
If you are designing a sensing system and need to determine which coating or fiber geometry is most suitable for your splicing and installation environment, please provide the specific temperature range and mechanical constraints of your application.
