Terminating fiber optic lighting cables with a hot knife [Step-by-step process] LightEFX

After installing your starlight ceiling or fiber optic pool lighting feature, you want to ensure the termination of fiber cables are fitted and terminated correctly and cleanly. A better termination finish will improve the light output of the fiber cables showing off those colored lights or twinkling stars.

Terminating the ends with a hot knife provides a clean finish ready to connect to a light source (the illuminator) or end-fittings. Similar to a soldering iron, a hot knife has a wide blade, suitable for cutting fiber optic cables. Ensure that the blade of the hot knife is clean and free from any substance so that it does not leave marks or scratch the fibers.

A quick and simple process:
• Bundle the fiber cables together
• Remove the outer jacket to expose the inner fiber cores
• Grip the exposed fiber cores with tape
• Insert the taped fibers into the gland adaptor
• Cut through the fiber cores with the hot knife
• Insert the gland adaptor into the illuminator

Terminating the fiber cables on the end-fitting side gives a nicer even spread of light. With a clean termination, the fiber cores are flush and tightly gripped, preventing any cores from straying.

Polishing the fiber optic ends will further improve light transmission. This can be performed using high-grit sandpaper followed by a buffing wheel.