Exploratory Development of Improved Optical Fiber Bundles
Abstract
This report discusses exploratory development on materials and techniques to improve glass optical fibers and fiber bundles with particular reference to coherent multifiber fiberscopes. Studies were carried out on improved interface formation, end tip fusing, experimental fiber drawing techniques and evaluation of various component glass, clad rods and fibers. Two basically different approaches to improving core-cladding interface were explored: the use of low melting fluxes with the rod and tube method, and the use of a double crucible to completely melt the core and cladding glasses before drawing. Neither approach provided significantly better interface quality in the resulting clad rods. A method was developed for fusing the end tips of coherent fiberscope bundles. Good results were achieved in bundle size up to 3 x 3mm in cross section but considerable difficulty was encountered when the bundle size was increased to 10 x 10mm. A number of different glass combinations were selected and drawn into clad rods and fibers in a search for improved transmission efficiency. It was concluded that the properties of commercially available glasses presently limit the fiber transmission and that glasses with improved bulk transmittance must be formulated if improved fibers are to be realized.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0881276
Entities
People
- Ethan C. Hopkins
- Henry B. Cole
- Walter P. Siegmund