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Multimode optical cable heat shrink tubing

Fiber optic adapter knowledge brief Published 19 Nov 2022

Prepared for preliminary research by the DANI ALONSO OPTICAL knowledge desk. Confirm connector interfaces, sleeve materials, polish, loss budgets and installation requirements against current standards and product documentation.

Heat shrink tubing for multimode optical cables provides mechanical protection, environmental sealing, and maintains optical performance at splice points.Purpose and Function

Heat shrink tubing is used to protect fiber optic splices by providing mechanical strength, preventing bending or flexing, and shielding the splice from moisture and environmental stress . It ensures that the optical transmission performance of multimode fibers is maintained while offering a durable, rigid support at the splice joint .

Construction and Materials

Typical multimode fiber heat shrink tubing consists of:

  • Inner tube: Polyolefin copolymer that surrounds the fiber and provides insulation and protection.
  • Outer tube: Polyolefin or cross-linked polymer that shrinks when heated to tightly secure the splice.
  • Reinforcing member: Stainless steel rod or strength member that adds rigidity and prevents fiber breakage at the splice .
  • Optional index matching gel: Used in some mechanical splices to reduce insertion loss and improve optical performance . The tubing is often made from high-quality polyolefin and 304-grade stainless steel, offering moisture and corrosion resistance, heat shock resistance, and durability in harsh environments .
Specifications
  • Inner diameter: Typically around 1.3 mm for multimode fibers.
  • Outer diameter: Around 2.6 mm after shrinkage.
  • Length: Commonly 60 mm, but custom lengths are available.
  • Operating temperature: Usually from -45°C to +100°C, with full recovery at approximately 120°C .
  • Single-holed preshrunk ends: Ensure proper fiber threading and prevent damage during installation .
Installation Guidelines
  1. Thread the fiber through the inner tube of the heat shrink sleeve.
  2. Position the splice in the center of the sleeve.
  3. Apply heat evenly using a fiber splicer or heat gun to shrink the outer tube. Proper heating ensures uniform contraction and rigid protection .
  4. Avoid overheating, which can cause melting or blemishes, and underheating, which results in loose protection .
Advantages
  • Provides mechanical strength and prevents bending at the splice.
  • Offers environmental protection against moisture and temperature fluctuations.
  • Maintains optical performance by stabilizing the splice and reducing microbending losses.
  • Compatible with multimode and single-mode fibers, with flexible options for different fiber diameters .
Sources and Suppliers

Heat shrink tubing for multimode optical cables is available from suppliers like OPTOKON, Thorlabs, DigiKey, 3M, and online marketplaces such as Amazon, offering a range of sizes, materials, and pre-assembled splice protection sleeves .

Multimode optical cable heat shrink tubing - DANI ALONSO OPTICAL CONNECTIVITY [PDF]

Multimode optical cable heat shrink tubing

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Technical note

This reference is intended for preliminary fiber optic adapter research. Compatibility, link budgets, connector interfaces, sleeve materials, polish, installation methods, test limits and applicable standards must be verified for the specific project.

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