3SAE End-Face Prep Station II

The End-Face Prep Station (EPS II) is an optical fiber polisher designed for Large Diameter optical fibers / Endcaps / PCF- Photonic Crystal Fiber (glass / quartz / Fluoride glass). The EPS II brings a solution to the issue of cleaving large diameter optical fibers by producing low angle offsets and smooth, flat end faces. Many optical fibers are non-round or have internal structures that interfere with conventional cleaving. With some fibers priced in hundreds of dollars per meter, the length of cutoff scrap must be minimized.

3SAE’s EPS II meets these challenges with a novel, polishing-based design that features both flat and angle polishing. The EPS II produces a consistent and uniform endface surface regardless of the optical fibers’ composition or shaping. The EPS II is not an adapted connector polisher – it is a purpose-built LD fiber preparation unit optimized for splicing and other large diameter fiber termination and optical fiber processing applications.

Photonic Crystal Fiber and shaped fiber present challenges when cleaving. The EPS II can be used to polish these end faces leaving a flat polished surface for splicing. Pre-closing a PCF fiber and polishing away the closed region is a common method for attaining a flat endface unattainable with standard cleaving methods.

Choose from a selection of standard programs or create and store a custom program for a specific fiber. Selectable programs ensure repeatable performance, and the bright, clear LCD screen guides the user with the correct action for each step. No special skill or “touch” is required –the EPS’s precision fixturing holds the fibers precisely, and the automated system lowers the fibers smoothly onto the adjustable-speed polishing plate.

A filtered-air final cleaning/drying system is used to dry the fiber after cleaning in the included 3SAE Ultrasonic Cleaner, (solid top cover model). The 3SAE Ultrasonic Cleaner is a purpose-built ultrasonic fiber cleaner that was designed specifically for fiber applications. Many years of splicing experience went into the functional, ergonomic design that ensures consistent cleaning results. When the preparation process is complete, the fiber endfaces are flat, low-angle, and ready for splicing. Less than 2 mm of scrap length means less wasted expensive fiber and allows more accurate placement of splices and components.

Product Features:

  • Angled polishing capabilities
  • Lowest available cleave angles
  • Less than 2mm scrap fiber waste
  • No additional fiber handling system required
  • Operator independent
  • Easy handling
  • No PC required
  • High first pass yield

Technical Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 299.7 (W) x 292 (D) x 223.5 (H) mm
  • Weight: 10 kg
  • Power Source:
    • Input: 100-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz
    • Output: 24 VAC, 3.75 A
  • Compressed Air: Max 95 psi., 0.6 SCMF
  • Fiber Cladding: 400μm – >2000μm
    • >2000μm will require custom fiber holder
  • Cleave Angle: Typical < 0.30°
  • Angle Cleaving: Up to 15° of rotation (from vertical).
  • Cycle Time: Typically 1-3 minutes

Standard Package:

Part Number Description
CLV-01-0011 3SAE End-Face Prep Station II (EPS II)
  • Includes qty (4) SS polishing discs
  • (12) diamond polishing papers, power supply
  • (2) EPS fiber holder lids
  • (1) ea – EPS single 350μm / 550μm / 750μm / 1000μm / 2000μm platforms
  • 6mm airline
  • 6mm pipe adapter
  • Electronic user’s manual
  • Manufacturer’s 1-year parts and labor warranty

Accessories and Consumables:

Part Number Description
ACC-01-0292 EPS II Polish Disc Steel (w/Teflon)
ACC-10-0026 Power Supply 24VDC/2.5A (EPS II)
ACC-01-0293 EPS II 350um Platform
ACC-01-0294 EPS II 550um Platform
ACC-01-0295 EPS II 750um Platform
ACC-01-0296 EPS II 1000um Platform
ACC-01-0297 EPS II 2000um Platform
ACC-01-0298 EPS II Fiber Holder Lid
CON-10-0027 Diamond Lapping Film, 30um, 5″ with PSA (Qty: 10)
CON-10-0028 Diamond Lapping Film, 9um, 5″ with PSA (Qty: 10)
CON-10-0029 Diamond Lapping Film, 3um, 5″ with PSA (Qty: 10)
CON-10-0030 Diamond Lapping Film, 1um, 5″ with PSA (Qty: 10)
CON-10-0015 EPS II Teflon Deck Film
CON-10-0016 EPS II Teflon Disc Film