How to use an automatic optical cable stripper

An automatic optical cable stripper removes fiber coatings precisely and safely by holding the cable, cutting the coating to the correct depth, and pulling it off without damaging the glass core.Step-by-Step Guide1. Prepare the Cable Cut the fiber optic cable to the desired length using kevlar or fiber scissors. Ensure the cut is clean and straight to facilitate smooth stripping and splicing . 2. Select the Correct Groove or Notch Automatic strippers often have multiple grooves for different coating diameters (e.g., 900 µm buffer, 250 µm acrylate coating). Choose the groove that matches the layer you want to remove . 3. Insert the Cable Place the fiber into the stripper's slot. For spring-loaded automatic strippers, the tool will automatically adjust to the cable diameter. Ensure the fiber is fully seated and aligned with the cutting notch . 4. Adjust Blade Depth (if applicable) Some automatic strippers allow you to set the cutting depth. Adjust it so the blade cuts only the coating without nicking the glass core . 5. Strip the Coating Squeeze the handles or activate the automatic mechanism. The tool will cut through the coating. Pull the stripper along the fiber or allow the automatic mechanism to remove the coating in one motion. For multi-layer coatings, repeat the process using progressively smaller grooves . 6. Remove Aramid Fibers After stripping the outer coatings, cut and remove any aramid (strength) fibers using kevlar scissors or pliers. Bundle them neatly to avoid interference with splicing . 7. Clean the Fiber Wipe the exposed glass with a lint-free cloth and alcohol to remove any residue. This ensures optimal splicing or connectorization .Tips for Safe and Effective UseAlways wear safety glasses to protect against fiber shards .Take small, incremental strips rather than trying to remove long sections at once to prevent fiber breakage .Hold the stripper at a 45-degree angle to reduce stress on the fiber .Practice on spare fiber to get a feel for the tool's pressure and angle before working on critical cables . Using an automatic optical cable stripper correctly ensures clean, precise fiber ends, reduces signal loss, and prevents damage to the delicate glass core, which is essential for reliable splicing and connectorization .