scope:

INTRODUCTION

Intent

The objective of this FOTP is to measure the breakaway frictional force between the ferrule and the sleeve in fiber optic connectors.

Background

The contact force between the mating ferrules in an optical connector is the difference between the friction force between the ferrule and the sleeve, and the spring force of the connector. To maintain contact the friction force must remain below the spring force. The procedures in this FOTP have been selected to estimate the maximum breakaway frictional force that will exist between the ferrule and the sleeve.

The mechanics of friction result in significant variations in the measurement of breakaway friction. The criteria to be applied to the results of these measurements must account for the spread that is inherent in the mechanism being measured. See Annex B

Description

The specimen is a connector alignment sleeve. The measurement is made with two gage pins inserted so they meet at the center of the sleeve. Force is applied between one of the gage pins and the sleeve as shown in Figure 1.

To account for possible asymmetry between the ends of the sleeve an equal number of measurements are made with the gage pin being removed from each end of the sleeve.