How to strip a self-supporting butterfly optical cable

Use a specialized butterfly cable stripper or hand-held optical fiber stripper to safely and efficiently remove the sheath without damaging the fibers.

Tools Required

• FTS-01 Hand-Held Butterfly Cable Stripper: Designed for 3.0 × 2.0 mm butterfly-shaped drop cables, with a durable stainless steel blade and non-slip handle for precise stripping .
• Factory Stripping Device: Includes stripping dies, first and second cutters, fixing parts, and support structures for high-volume or repeated stripping tasks .
• Optional Safety Gear: Gloves and eye protection to prevent injury from sharp blades or fiber shards.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Measure and Mark the Cable Determine the length of cable to strip using the ruler or graduation marks on the stripper. Mark the cutting point to ensure consistent fiber exposure .
2. Secure the Cable For factory devices, fix the cable in the stripping mold using the provided fixing parts and rods to prevent movement during cutting . For hand-held strippers, hold the cable firmly in the jaws.
3. Position the Blade Align the blade with the marked section of the cable. Butterfly strippers are designed to cut the outer sheath without touching the optical fibers inside .
4. Apply Pressure and Strip
   • For hand-held strippers: Squeeze the handle and pull the cable back to remove the sheath in one motion.
   • For factory devices: Activate the first and second cutters sequentially to remove the outer sheath and any inner protective layers .
5. Inspect the Fiber Ensure the optical fibers are intact and free from nicks or scratches. The stripped section should be flat and clean, ready for connectorization or splicing .
6. Repeat as Needed For long runs, repeat the process at each end or at required intervals, maintaining consistent technique to avoid fiber damage.

Safety Tips

• Always use tools specifically designed for butterfly optical cables to prevent fiber breakage or injury .
• Avoid using knives or pliers, as manual stripping can be dangerous and may damage the fibers .
• Dispose of fiber scraps properly to prevent accidental punctures.

Advantages of Using Specialized Strippers

• High Efficiency: One-time stripping for multiple meters of cable .
• Safety: Reduces risk of injury compared to manual methods .
• Durability: Tools are designed for repeated use with long service life .
• Precision: Ensures clean, flat cuts without damaging the optical fibers . By following these steps and using the appropriate tools, you can safely and efficiently strip self-supporting butterfly optical cables for installation or connectorization.