Abstract: An apparatus that mass polishes a variety of fiber optic cable connectors simultaneously. The apparatus includes a plurality of polishing plates, each capable of holding its own polishing film and pad, and having a varying height. The apparatus further includes a plurality of connector fixtures that may receive a variety of connectors at varying angles. Each connector fixture communicates with a corresponding polishing pad. Thus, fiber optic cable connectors having a variety of polished end faces may be provided with the apparatus. The apparatus also eliminates the potential for contamination among polishing films, reduces polishing steps, and saves labor and maintenance costs.

Abstract: The invention concerns a rotatable grinding/polishing tool, an apparatus with such a tool and a method for using such a tool. The tool has grinding elements in the shape of grinding/polishing flaps extending radially outward from a roller. Reinforcing support brushes also extend radially outward and adjacent to the flaps. Furthermore, the tool has holding elements, preferably in the shape of brushes, likewise extending radially outwards from the roller. The holding brushes have substantially lesser length than the flaps and the reinforcing support brushes. At the same time, the tangential stiffness of the holding brushes is considerably greater than the tangential stiffness of the flaps and the support brushes. The length of the grinding flaps is preferably so that by grinding or polishing, the flaps are capable of extending beyond an adjacent holding element.

Abstract: An apparatus for microfinishing an interior cylindrical surface. The apparatus includes a mechanism which holds and rotates the workpiece about an axis. A tool, having radially directed work areas, is positioned within the workpiece and causes a strip of abrasive sheet material, positioned over the work areas, to engage the rotating workpiece. With the abrasive sheet material engaging the rotating workpiece, the tool is axially oscillated.