Fiber optic wiring gives maximum bandwidth, reliability, durability and cost-effectiveness, so it has become vital in telecommunication infrastructure. So, splicing is the process of joining two optical fibers with each other while setting up fiber optic wires. However, the two types of splicers used in the splicing method are fusion splicers and mechanical splicers. This article provides a comprehensive difference of fusion vs. Mechanical splicing, its benefits, and multiple applications to help you make an informed decision for your requirements.
What is fiber optic splicing?
Fiber optic splicing is linking two optical fibers with each other for flawless transfer of light energy from one optical fiber to another optical fiber. A fiber splice is a safe connection of two optical fibers. When the two optical fibers are joined with a splice, then they cannot be set aside and put back together. However, you can only separate them from each other when you attach them with connectors. Generally, Fiber splices have common four uses:
- Repairing of a damaged cable,
- Extension in the length of a cable,
- Joining two different cable types,
- Attaching a pigtail
Before diving into a comparison of fusion vs. Mechanical splicing, let’s learn about these two procedures:
What is fusion splicing?
Fusion splicing is the joining of two optical fibers by heating both ends together. So, it works better in fiber optic networks to make a consistent and permanent connection between fiber strands. Thus, it provides less insertion loss and reflection than mechanical splicing.
Benefits of Fusion Splicing:
The following are some advantages of fusion splicing:
- Minimum signal loss: In fusion splicing, there is least insertion loss almost 0.02 dB, and less back reflection.
- More reliability: this type of splicing delivers a reliable and permanent connection that is ideal for long-term use.
- Strength: These splices provide maximum resistance against temperature variations, vibrations, and mechanical stress.
- Effective in crowded networks: fusion splicing works best for advanced fiber optic installations requiring constant connectivity.
Use cases of fusion splicing:
The following are some best applications of fusion splicing:
- Telecommunications: these splices provide high-quality connections in long-distance and high-speed networks.
- Data Centers: this type of splicing is ideal for connecting fiber optic cables in dense network setups.
- Broadcasting: fusion splicers are best for reliable transfer of high-definition audio and video signals.
- Medical tools: it is suitable for devices requiring perfect optical transmission, like endoscopes.
What is mechanical splicing?
Mechanical splicing is the attachment of two materials for steel strengthening bars to make a permanent length that can hold applied loads. This type of splicing is best for construction, like in solid concrete structures, or as an alternative for lap splicing or welding. Mechanical splicing is a latest and effective method that enhances construction quality and perfect for tough engineering infrastructures.
Benefits of mechanical splicing:
The following are some benefits of mechanical splicing:
- Maximum strength: mechanical splicing provides a strong and durable connection.
- Space-Saving: this type of splicing reduces the blockage in rebar-heavy areas.
- Time Efficiency: this method is quicker than welding or typical lap splicing.
- Accuracy: This splicing method provides perfect alignment and load transfer.
- Ecological benefits: there is minimum waste of material in mechanical splicing as compared to lap splicing.
Use cases of mechanical splicing:
The following are some best applications of mechanical splicing:
- Skyscraper buildings: mechanical splicing is best for constant transfer of loads in vertical columns.
- Bridges: this type of splicing is ideal for connecting huge-diameter rebars in critical stress zones.
- Earthquake Zones: in seismic zones, these splices give powerful resistance to dynamic loads and earthquakes.
Comparison of mechanical vs. fusion splicing:
| Feature: | Mechanical splicing: | Fusion splicing: |
| Definition: | In this process, There is a joining of fibers by using a placement fixture with index-matching gel or adhesive. | In this process, there is a joining of fibers by melting their both ends by using heat. |
| Connection type: | permanent | temporary |
| Maintenance: | It needs periodic application of gel or adhesive. | This method does not periodic maintenance after splicing. |
| Strength: | It is not strong or degrades with time. | It is highly mechanical and has strength |
| Durability: | It is durable and could be affected by environmental factors. | It is durable and highly resistant to environmental factors |
| Cost: | Its cost is less as this process needs simple tools and alignment fixtures. | Its cost is higher and needs a fusion splicer and accessories. |
| Expertise required: | It is easy to do it with the least expertise required. | It is more advanced and needs expert staff. |
| Speed: | This process is faster and takes a few seconds to make each splice. | This process is slower and takes time to setup and splicing processing. |
| Primary investment: | It has less primary cost. | Its primary cost is higher. |
| Insertion loss: | Higher | lower |
| Use cases: | It is best for emergency repairs like indoor networks and testing setups. | It is perfect for long distance fiber networks, high-speed telecommunications and data centers. |
Fusion vs. mechanical splicing: Which one to choose?
Fusion splicing:
- It is perfect for permanent connections, long-distance networks, or high-performance applications.
- This type of splicing has best use in telecommunications, data centers, and fiber optic backbone installations.
Mechanical splicing:
- It is ideal for short-term applications, restricted budget, or low-performance requirements.
- It is best for instant fixes or situations where a durable joint is not necessary.
Wrapping up:
In the comparison of Mechanical vs. fusion splicing, both have different use cases. Thus, mechanical splicing gives an instant and affordable solution for temporary or less strict applications. However, fusion splicing is the perfect standard for durability, performance, and reliability in significant fiber optic networks.
