Micro Grinding Technique of Mutilcore Fiber Endface Using 3D Flock-Structured Film

In order to control the 1~2-um protrusion height of mutilcore (MT) fiber endface in optic connectors, a micro grinding approach was developed using a 3D flock-structured film. The objective is to replace traditional lapping with loose-abrasive slurry. Experimental result shows that to achieve its height requirement and good quality, this approach requires 5-steps grinding processes with normal coated lapping film and three-dimensional coated flock lapping film. It is found that using 3-um-size silicon carbide flock lapping film, the grinding time and the pressure are the key factors to control he 1~2-um protrusion height of fiber endface. Moreover, the endface protrusion height of 1-um and larger can be achieved through the optimization of micro-grinding conditions.