What s the best way to cut the fiber optic cable

Fiber optic cables should be cut using specialized tools: Kevlar scissors for aramid fibers and a fiber cleaver for the glass fibers, not regular scissors.

Cutting the Outer Jacket and Aramid Fibers

To safely cut a fiber optic cable, start with the outer jacket. Use a fiber optic cable stripper to remove the protective sheath without damaging the delicate fibers inside. After stripping the jacket, the aramid (Kevlar) yarn strength members should be cut using Kevlar scissors or fiber optic Kevlar cutters.

These tools are specifically designed to handle the tough aramid fibers cleanly, preventing fraying or incomplete cuts that can occur with regular scissors or snips.

Cutting the Glass Fiber

Once the jacket and aramid fibers are removed, the glass fiber itself must be cut precisely. Use a fiber cleaver, a precision tool that scores and fractures the fiber to create a near-perfect 90° end face. This is critical for low-loss fusion splicing or connector termination.

Using regular scissors or knives can crush the fiber, causing hidden cracks and signal loss.

Recommended Procedure

Cut the cable to length using a fiber optic cable cutter or Kevlar scissors for the aramid fibers. Strip the outer jacket with a fiber optic cable stripper. Cut the aramid fibers with Kevlar scissors to expose the glass fiber.

Strip the fiber coating using a fiber stripper to prepare the fiber for termination. Cleave the fiber with a fiber cleaver to achieve a smooth, precise end face for splicing or connectorization.

Safety Considerations

Always wear safety glasses when cutting or stripping fiber optic cables, and dispose of fiber scraps properly. Using the correct tools not only ensures clean cuts but also reduces the risk of injury and prevents damage to the fiber that could compromise network performance. By following these steps and using the proper tools—fiber optic cable strippers, Kevlar scissors, and fiber cleavers—you can safely and effectively cut fiber optic cables for installation or splicing.