A Feasibility Study of the Production of Low Loss IR Fibers in Space
Abstract
In this study a preliminary evaluation is made of the feasibility of preparing fluoride glass optical fibers in space. The glass processing steps are analyzed and those which may contribute to property degradation are indicated, and the possibility of successfully executing such steps in space are considered. Two critical factors are the relative cooling rates and fluid flow characteristics of the fibers, during drawing, on earth and in space. It has been concluded that fiber cooling rates in space will be equal to or less than those on earth. This feature is detrimental to fiber pulling in space. Also, gravity plays a small role in determining the characteristics of the fluid flow. However, at higher temperatures, where the viscosity is low, gravitational effects could be important in determining the pulling force on the fiber, and it is believed that certain flows unobtainable on earth could be realized in space. This flow regime could potentially be utilized advantageously for the production of fluoride fibers in space. However, additional calculations and experiments are required to demonstrate the feasibility of this approach.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 15, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA139390
Entities
People
- George F. Neilson
- Michael C. Weinberg
- Michail A. Zak
Organizations
- California Institute of Technology