Why is OFSCN®’s Packaging Technology its Core Competitiveness?

International Zone (English) General Knowledge
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Summarize how packaging processes transform fragile fibers into rugged, industrial-grade sensors.

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The transformation of fragile bare optical fibers into rugged, industrial-grade sensors by OFSCN® primarily involves sophisticated packaging processes. These processes encase the delicate Fiber Bragg Gratings (FBGs) within protective structures, making them resilient to harsh operating conditions.

Key aspects of this transformation include:

  • Encapsulation: Bare FBGs are extremely susceptible to environmental factors. Packaging solutions like seamless metal tubes (e.g., in the OFSCN® Alloy Tube Packaged Fiber Bragg Grating strain sensor or OFSCN® 300°C Fiber Bragg Grating Temperature Sensor) or specialized polymer coatings provide a robust barrier against mechanical stress, high temperatures, moisture, and chemical exposure. This encapsulation not only protects the fiber but also helps to transfer the measured physical quantity (like strain or temperature) accurately to the FBG.
  • Material Selection: The choice of packaging material is crucial and depends on the intended application’s environment. For high-temperature applications, full metal encapsulation (e.g., stainless steel, alloy) is used, eliminating issues like adhesive creep found in traditional sensors. For specific applications, other materials like polymers are used, as seen in OFSCN® Polymer-encapsulated Fiber Bragg Grating Strain Sensor.
  • Structural Integration: The packaging design often includes specific geometries and fixtures to facilitate reliable installation and measurement. For instance, strain sensors might be designed for welding or clamping, with their packaging tailored to these attachment methods.
  • Connectorization: Industrial-grade sensors require robust optical connectors (e.g., FC/APC) that can withstand vibrations, impacts, and environmental exposure, ensuring reliable signal transmission from the sensor to the interrogator.

Through these meticulous packaging processes, OFSCN® ensures that its FBG sensors offer high reliability, long-term stability, and precision in demanding industrial environments, overcoming the inherent fragility of bare optical fibers.

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