Method and apparatus for forming ultra-small optical fiber cable assemblies

摘要

A process and apparatus for fabricating an optical fiber cable core assembly having at least one optical fiber encapsulated with an ultra-small diameter metallic tube are described. The optical fiber cable core assembly is formed by passing a metal or metal alloy strip through at least one die to form the ultra-small diameter tube, inserting at least one optical fiber or fibers into the tube during the tube formation operation and passing the assembly through a sealing station to seal the tube and provide a hermetic core assembly. To reduce the likelihood of breaking the tube and damaging the optical fiber or fibers therein, the deformation energy for forming the strip into the tube is provided by wrapping the assembly about a tensioning device positioned between the tube forming station and the tube sealing station.