REACTOR FOR COATING OPTICAL FIBERS

摘要

The invention concerns a method and apparatus for producing a carbon coated optical fiber. An optical fiber is drawn through a reactor tube. Reactant gas is flowed into the tube and onto the fiber where it reacts to form a carbon coating on the fiber. The reactant gas and reaction products are flowed in the direction of movement of the fiber and out of an end of the tube and into a receiving chamber having a diameter larger than that of the reaction tube. The reactant gas continues to react as it flows through the tube and after it exits the tube. At least some of the reaction product deposit on the surface of the receiving chamber where it has no adverse effect on the draw process.