Lint Free Wipes Cleaning

Reasons for fiber optic cleaning:
1. More than 50% of fiber optical network failures are due to contamination
2. Microscopic dust particles can raise laser system instability due to it can partially or completely block the core to generate strong back reflection
3. Degrade the network performance when there is an air gap or misalignment due to the dust on the fiber connector endface or on the fiber cladding.
4. Compared with the high cost of equipment, cleanings is at much lower cost.
5. Many fiber optical boards which are returned from field for expensive warranty repairs are found out only due to the fiber ports contamination problem
6. Avoid the whole fiber system failure To keep repair cost low, high customer satisfaction and fast network,

Cleaning work is so important, but also need caution that improper cleaning can cause damage to the network equipment or product. and here is the introduction for the cleaning by usage of Lint Free Wipes on the fiber patch cords and pigtails.

Lint free wipes for fiber dry clean procedure:
1. Make sure the lasers are turned off before inspection without view directly with optical instrument or stare the laser
2. Remove the protective endcap and store it in a small reusable container
3. Fold the wipe into a square about 4-8 layer thick( caution: be careful not to contaminate the cleaning area of the wipe with your hands or on a surface during folding)
4. Inspect the connector with fiber scope, if it is dirty, clean it with lint free wipe
5. Lightly wipe the ferrule tip in the central portion of the wipe with figure 8 motion, do not scrub the fiber against the wipe to avoid causing scratches and more contamination.
6. Repeat the figure 8 wiping action on another section of the wipe
7. Proper dispose of the wipe
8. Inspect the connector again
9. Repeat this process if necessary

Wet cleaning is not recommended for bulkheads and receptacles. It may cause damage to the equipment. The primary concern with the use of isopropyl alcohol is that it can remove contamination completely from the connector or adapter. Residual liquid alcohol acts a transport mechanism for loose dirt on the endface. If the alcohol is allowed to evaporate slowing off the ferrule, it can leave residual material on the cladding and fiber core which is extremely difficult to clean of without another wet and usually more difficult to remove than the original contaminant. Liquid alcohol can also remain in small crevices or cavities where it can re-emerge during fiber connection.
Cautions:
1. One female multi fiber connectors, ensure that no alcohol gets into the guide pin holes, the alcohol might come out during mating and contaminate your connection
2. Do not use wet cleaning on E2000 OR F3000 connectors cause the connector can trap the alcohol and re-contaminate the connector
3. Do not scrub the fiber against the wipe, such action cause scratches.

Lint free wipes for wet clean procedure:
1. Make sure the lasers are turned off before inspection without view directly with optical instrument or stare the laser
2. Remove the protective endcap and store it in a small reusable container
3. Inspect the connector with fiberscope
4. Fold the wipe into a square about 4-8 layer thick
5. Moisten one section of the wipe with drop of 99% alcohol, be sure that the portion of the wipe remains dry
6. Lightly wipe the ferrule tip in the alcohol moistened portion of the wipe with figure 8 motion, immediately repeat the figure 8 wiping action on the dry section of wipe to remove residual alcohol.
7. Properly dispose of the wipe, never reuse a wipe
8. Inspect the connector again
9. Repeat this process if necessary

May note the main contents and method are from the CISCO support center technology white paper.

Our Lint free wipes has the KIMWIPES in 280pcs/box, and nonwoven wipes at 4″x4″ size or other size. More fiber products information may write to us at sales@fiberzip.com