scope:

Intent

The intent of this test is to establish the ability of a fiber optic component (cable, connecting device, etc.) to resist degradation when exposed to specific fluids with which the component may come into contact during its service life. (Note: For fluid immersion testing of optical fiber, refer to FOTP-74¹).

The primary tests defined herein are for accelerated aging and continuous immersion evaluation by complete immersion of samples for specified times at specified temperatures. A secondary method is defined only for non-Military cables and defines proximity or periodic exposure. This test is a "wet patch" test and is only used if specified by the Detail Specification.

Failure modes

Potential failure modes for this test include, but are not limited to:

Swelling of any materials. (Exception - materials that are functionally designed to swell, e.g., swellable water blocking tapes.)

Dimensional changes other than swelling.

Softening of any materials.

Loss of seal or adhesive bonding between two bonded surfaces.

Discoloration of materials, finishes, and marking (may or may not be considered detrimental).

Changes in mating and/or coupling characteristics.

Corrosion of any materials, finish peeling, cracking, or flaking.

Inability to mate or unmate (connector, device, or cable assembly).

Degradation of cable/connector optical transmission characteristics.

¹ FOTP-74 supersedes FOTP-75, Fluid Immersion Test for Optical Waveguide Fibers.