Fiber Fusing is a mechanism used to protect fiber optic cables from damage caused by unsafe levels of optical power. It works by incorporating a tiny core made of fused silica into the fiber, with a diameter that is much smaller than the core of the fiber that transmits the optical signal. This core has a lower threshold for optical power than the signal-carrying core and acts as a fuse. When the optical power of the signal exceeds a certain point, the fuse core is destroyed, resulting in a permanent break in the fiber.
Fiber Fuse is particularly useful in applications where the optical power levels may be unpredictable or difficult to control, such as in long-distance links or in optical networks. By incorporating the fuse core into the fiber, the risk of permanent damage to the cable is greatly reduced.
Fiber Fuse is also used in applications where the signal power is expected to be constant, but where it is essential to protect the cable from any sudden spikes in optical power. For example, in high-speed communication systems, the signal power may temporarily exceed the threshold of the fuse core, but this will only cause the fuse core to be destroyed and the signal to be briefly interrupted, rather than permanently damaging the cable.
Overall, Fiber Fuse is an important protection mechanism for fiber optic cables. It helps to protect the cables from damage due to intense levels of optical power and can also be used to protect them from sudden power spikes. It is an invaluable tool for ensuring reliable, long-term performance of fiber optic cables.
