Abstract:
A fluid bearing for directing optical fibers during manufacturing is presented. The fluid bearing provides a flow of fluid to levitate and direct an optical fiber along a process pathway. The optical fiber is situated in a fiber slot and subjected to an upward force from fluid flowing from an inner radial position of the fiber slot past the optical fiber to an outer radial position of the fiber slot. The levitating force of fluid acting on the optical fiber is described by a convex force curve, according to which the upward levitating force on the optical fiber increases as the optical fiber moves deeper in the slot. Better stability in the positioning of the optical fiber in the fiber slot is achieved and contact of the optical fiber with solid surfaces of the fluid bearing is avoided. Various fluid bearing structures for achieving a convex force curve are described.
Abstract:
Method and apparatus for producing glass products of predetermined shape. In the method, a preform is introduced into a furnace and heated to a temperature above the softening point of the glass. The heated portion is subjected to tensile forces and drawn from the furnace through an outlet opening. During processing, inert gas is fed into the furnace. According to the invention, the concentration of gaseous impurities in the furnace is maintained on the same level as in the inert gas fed into the oven. To prevent inflow of undesired gaseous components from the ambient air, a diffusion barrier is established by generating a barrier flow of inert gas in the inlet or outlet openings. This barrier flow has a direction of flow, which is opposite to the direction of the diffusion. The invention provides non-contacting sealing between the furnace the preform while optimizing the consumption of protective gas. The invention also allows for simultaneous rotation of the preform.
Abstract:
Helium recycling for optical fiber manufacturing in which consolidation process helium is recycled (440) either directly for use in consolidation at high purity or recycled at lower purity adequate for usage in draw or other processes having a lower helium purity. Integrated processes for recycling helium from two or more helium using processes in the optical manufacturing process are also described. Substantial helium and cost savings are recognized.
Abstract:
Apparatus for the multiple drawing of fibers allowing the simultaneous drawing out of a plurality of optical fibers then the multifibre cabling on line. The apparatus comprises a first drawing assembly formed by a support (2) of N preforms, an oven (4) with N containers, a coating system (8), N capstans for the drawing (12) and a second cabling assembly comprising an extruder and assembling devices. Application to the manufacturing of optical fibers.