Abstract: An upcoated optical fiber includes an optical fiber having a ultra-violet (UV) curable upcoating and a slip layer disposed between the optical fiber and the upcoating. The upcoating is mechanically strippable from the optical fiber and may be colored for identification of the optical fiber. In one embodiment, the slip layer and upcoating both have predetermined glass transition temperatures that are within about 15° C. of each other for improving mechanical characteristics. The slip layer may be essentially the same color as the upcoating for identification of the optical fiber after the upcoating is removed or it may be uncolored. In suitable embodiments, the slip layer may include a micronized poly-tetra-fluoro-ethylene (PTFE), a silicone, and/or a dispersing agent for enhancing the strip performance of the upcoating over a range of temperatures.

Abstract: A fiber optic ribbon and methods of manufacturing the same include a plurality of optical fibers arranged in a generally planar configuration with a matrix generally connecting the plurality of optical fibers. A semi-solid film being disposed on at least a portion of an outer surface of the fiber optic ribbon, thereby reducing the surface adhesion of the fiber optic ribbon. During manufacturing, the semi-solid film can be applied before or after curing the matrix using suitable methods. The method of manufacturing also includes manufacturing a fiber optic ribbon stack and a tube assembly.

Abstract: A fiber optic ribbon includes a plurality of optical fibers arranged in a generally planar configuration having a primary matrix generally contacting optical fibers along a longitudinal axis forming an elongate structure. In one embodiment, the primary matrix has a cross-section with a non-uniform thickness, for example, an end portion with a generally bulbous shape. The fiber optic ribbon is useful as a subunit having a secondary matrix in contact therewith. The secondary matrix has a non-uniform thickness, thereby providing a fiber optic ribbon with preferential tear portions to aid separation of the ribbon into subunits. Other embodiments include a fiber optic ribbon with subunits having a secondary matrix with recessed portions to aid in the separation of the subunits.

Abstract: A fiber optic ribbon includes a plurality of optical fibers arranged in a generally planar configuration having a primary matrix generally contacting optical fibers along a longitudinal axis forming an elongate structure. In one embodiment, the primary matrix has a cross-section with a non-uniform thickness, for example, an end portion with a generally bulbous shape. The fiber optic ribbon is useful as a subunit having a secondary matrix in contact therewith. The secondary matrix has a non-uniform thickness, thereby providing a fiber optic ribbon with preferential tear portions to aid separation of the ribbon into subunits. Other embodiments include a fiber optic ribbon with subunits having a secondary matrix with recessed portions to aid in the separation of the subunits.

Abstract: Methods and tools for separating a fiber optic ribbon into subunits inhibiting optical attenuation during initiation of the separation of the fiber optic ribbon into subunits. A first method includes supplying the fiber optic ribbon, heating a portion of the fiber optic ribbon, and separating the fiber optic ribbon into more than one subunit. The method may be practiced with an optical fiber ribbon heater. The optical fiber ribbon heater transfers heat to a portion of an optical fiber ribbon, thereby softening a matrix material and reducing stress during shearing. The heater may be a stand-alone unit, integrated with a ribbon separation tool, or capable of being removably attached to the tool. Other methods of separating a fiber optic ribbon into subunits include providing a fiber optic ribbon, abrading or oxidizing a portion of the fiber optic ribbon, and separating the fiber optic ribbon into more than one subunit.