Arc fusion splices with near pristine strengths and improved optical loss

Factors affecting arc fusion splice strengths are listed, which collectively lead to splices having strengths near to that of the pristine fiber, and with improved losses; a breakthrough in arc fusion splice technology for expanded applications and greater reliability. The attainment of near pristine are fusion splice strengths coupled with improved splice loss is certainly a milestone in splicing technology. We have listed the various important considerations necessary in their attainment and suggested that high strength, the characteristic of primary importance in this paper, be viewed in two ways. High strength, per se, wherever applications require it, and high strength as a means of assuring high mechanical reliability by reducing the probability of "pop-in" cracks from surface defects.