Deep dive: Our CTO, Duane Dinkel, breaks down the core steps of fiber optic processing

Laser processing of optical fibers is a proven technology that offers highly controlled geometry formation over a wide range of fiber types while providing in-situ monitoring of angles, radii, beam emission profile, loss and other important parameters. Patented over 10 years ago by OpTek Systems, laser processing enables volume production of optical component designs once deemed impossible to fabricate. High-speed processing and low yield loss ensures competitive manufacturing costs.

Key advantages:

  • Rapid, non-contact processing
  • Accurate and repeatable feature positioning
  • Precise control over fiber and geometry
  • Broad range of end features and geometries
  • Optical-grade properties – no chipping, hackle, scratching
  • In-situ monitoring of optical properties and geometry
  • Enabling production ease of challenging fibers and designs
Laser LensingLaser CleavingLaser Stripping & Ablation
  • Conical, wedge, bionic, ball lenses
  • Precise radii control (± 1.0μm)
  • In-situ beam monitoring (far field ratio)
  • PM stress rod alignment control
  • Fiber Optic Gyroscopes (FOGs)
  • Pump Lasers
  • Waveguides
  • Sensing
  • Flat and angles
  • Precise positioning
  • Variable angle control
  • PM stress rod alignment control
  • Diodes and waveguides
  • EFPI sensing
  • Scrap angles
  • Low BR and TIR applications
  • Harsh environment
  • End capping
  • Buffer removal (acrylate and polyimide)
  • Precise positioning
  • High tensile strength
  • Clad/core ablation
  • Selective and precise removal
  • Eco-friendly manufacturing
  • High reliability applications
  • Harsh environment
  • Chemical/biological sensing

OPTICAL FIBER PROCESSING SERVICES

Cleaving

Fiber cleaving uses advanced laser technology to offer a precise and accurate alternative to traditional mechanical method.

Lensing

The non-contact lensing process is an incredibly fast alternative to mechanical polishing and uses on-line imaging to ensure accurate centration of the lens to the fiber.

End Caps

Delivering optimum performance, created by fusion splicing or laser fusing short lengths of material to the fiber end face.

Stripping

Laser stripping of optical fiber is the fast and accurate way to remove acrylate and polyimide coatings, in order to access the fiber for additional processing, termination, and packaging.

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Duane Dinkel Head Shot

Duane Dinkel

President, South Carolina, USA

Duane manages OpTek’s Greenville, South Carolina facility. From a Mechanical Engineering and Materials background, Duane has occupied senior roles in companies large and small, including 3M and AFL. He is an acknowledged expert in optical fibers, and converting fiber into valuable end-product for medical, military, energy and datacoms customers.  Duane has carefully located his family in a spot that allows year-round access to the golf course.