Optically aligned splice for optical fibers

摘要

A splice joint is effected between single mode polarization maintaining (SMPM) fibers (31, 32) in a manner so as to maintain polarization of light transmitted through the splice. Mating ends (57, 58) of the respective fibers (31, 32) are aligned and joined with ultraviolet curing epoxy (61). After the ultraviolet curing epoxy (61) is cured, five-minute epoxy (63) is applied over the joint so as to effect mechanical rigidity of the joint. In one arrangement, the five-minute epoxy is reinforced with a sleeve (55). Advantages include the ability to simplify splicing of SMPM fibers, while maintaining polarization characteristics of the fibers.