Zirconium Oxide

Components

for

Fiber Optics

APPLICATION 1:

High precision ferrules and sleeves for fiber optic connectors.

ZIRCONIA'S WINNING ATTRIBUTES

.
	Excellent long term dimensional stability
	Softer than other ceramics for uniform polish with glass fiber
	Low coefficient of friction for consistent and repeatable component mating
APPLICATION HIGHLIGHTS: Zirconia ferrules and sleeves are ubiquitous in optical fiber systems, particularly in long haul systems and areas where repair and replacement are difficult. The dimensional stability and resistance to environmental factors help make zirconium oxide the material of choice in this application. The ability to fabricate the material using low cost methods and the development of equipment to finish the components to the extreme tolerances required for the application have lowered prices to a commercially acceptable level and resulted in wide scale adoption of the material. APPLICATION 2: Fuser components ZIRCONIA'S WINNING ATTRIBUTES

	Electrical insulator
	Low friction for repeatable fiber location
	Smooth surfaces to avoid scratched fibers
	Dimensionally stable

APPLICATION HIGHLIGHTS:

High wear resistance and low coefficient of friction permitted the development of a field deployable fiber optic fuser easily used by technicians in the field. Since the fuser used an electrical arc to fuse the ends of the fiber, the electrical insulation character of the zirconium oxide allowed the use of higher voltages for more consistent arc starting and more consistent fusing without compromising the safety of the technicians.

1-908-213-7070