IEC 60793-1-30:2010

Overview

IEC 60793-1-30:2010 - "Optical fibres - Part 1-30: Measurement methods and test procedures - Fibre proof test" defines a uniform procedure for applying a brief, specified tensile load (proof test) to continuous lengths of optical fibre. The load is applied for the shortest time sufficient to ensure the glass experiences the proof stress (typically much less than one second). The method is applicable to optical fibre types A1, A2, A3 and B. The 2010 edition improves the description of the procedure compared with the prior edition.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and objective: Establish consistent requirements for the mechanical proof test used during manufacture and testing of optical fibres.
• Test profile: Load ramp-up to proof stress, a short dwell at constant proof stress, then rapid unload - applied sequentially along the fibre length. A statistical break rate (failures per unit length) is expected.
• Apparatus types: Two common machine designs are described:
  • Braked capstan type - speed difference between capstans creates the required proof load; may use a precision tension gauge or strain-controlled capstan speed.
  • Dead weight type - load arm and weights provide the proof load with synchronized pay-out and take-up capstans.
• Machine operating requirements:
  • Isolate tensile load variations in pay-out and take-up regions to avoid fluctuation of proof stress.
  • Proof-test region must apply uniform stress through the fibre cross-section (bend stress allowance up to 10%).
  • Control load/unload times; ramping should be as fast as feasible (example: a 90° unload over a 150 mm wheel at ~12 m/s gives ~10 ms).
  • Ensure minimum bending radii so temporary bend stresses do not significantly reduce fibre strength.
• Sample preparation, calculations and results: Guidance on sample handling, compensation for coating load-sharing, reporting test results and optional specification information is included.
• References: The standard notes the stress–strain relationship can be found in IEC/TR 62048.

Applications and users

Who uses IEC 60793-1-30:2010:

• Fibre manufacturers - on-line (during drawing/coating) and off-line screening to detect weak spots.
• Quality assurance and process control engineers - to set and verify proof-test parameters and break-rate targets.
• Test laboratories and acceptance testing teams - to perform standardized mechanical screening of continuous fibre.
• R&D teams developing new coatings or production processes that affect mechanical strength.

Practical uses:

• Implementing on-line proof testing in production lines.
• Defining acceptance criteria and documenting proof-test results.
• Comparing break rates across fibre batches or coating technologies.

Related standards

• IEC 60793-1 series (measurement methods and test procedures for optical fibres)
• IEC/TR 62048 (stress–strain relationship reference)

Keywords: IEC 60793-1-30:2010, fibre proof test, optical fibres, proof stress, braked capstan, dead weight, tensile load, measurement methods, test procedures.