Pigtail fibers can be stripped using mechanical, thermal, or chemical methods, each designed to safely remove coatings without damaging the glass fiber.

Mechanical Stripping

Mechanical stripping is the most common method and uses precision fiber strippers or specialized scissors. Handheld fiber strippers have slots sized for specific coating diameters (e.g., 125 µm cladding with 250 µm coating) and remove the coating by gripping and sliding it off the fiber end without touching the glass itself . For multi-layer pigtails, each layer—jacket, aramid yarn, and buffer—should be stripped progressively to avoid damage . Tools like the Clauss CFS-1 or adjustable strippers are recommended for standard and non-standard fiber diameters .

Thermal Stripping

Thermal strippers soften the polymer coating using controlled heat, making it easier to remove without nicking the fiber. Devices such as the Vytran FFS-2000 or FiberStrip 7030 apply heat to the coating, which can then be slid off cleanly . This method is particularly useful for high-temperature or specialty coatings.

Chemical Stripping

Chemical stripping involves dissolving the coating using solvents or acids. For example, exposing the fiber tip to heated sulfuric acid (around 120°C) for a short period can remove the coating, or applying gel-based paint strippers can soften it for removal with lens tissue . This method is recommended when very high reliability is required, as it minimizes mechanical stress on the fiber. Safety precautions and local regulations must be observed due to the hazardous nature of some chemicals.

Best Practices

• Always strip only the required length (typically 30–40 mm) to avoid weakening the fiber .
• Clean the bare fiber with lint-free wipes and high-purity alcohol to remove residues .
• Ensure blades or stripping tools are sharp and properly sized to prevent jagged cuts or nicks .
• For multi-layer pigtails, strip each layer individually, starting with the outer jacket, then aramid yarn, and finally the buffer .
• Avoid using open flames for stripping, as this can make the fiber brittle and unreliable . By selecting the appropriate method and following careful handling procedures, pigtail fibers can be stripped efficiently while maintaining the integrity of the glass fiber for low-loss splicing or connectorization .