High Precision V Groove Lid for Fiber Array FA and PLC Splitter - China Factory Suppliers
Product Introduction
A V Groove Lid is a precision-engineered auxiliary component designed to secure and protect optical fibers in V groove substrates, widely used in fiber optic packaging (e.g., fiber arrays, PLC splitters, or optical modules).
Core Definition & Purpose
It is a thin, rigid cover matched to V groove substrates (silica, ceramic, or glass) with pre-machined V-shaped grooves.
Its primary functions are fixing optical fibers in the grooves to maintain precise alignment, preventing fiber displacement from vibration or external stress, and providing physical protection against dust, moisture, or mechanical damage.
Key Design & Materials
Material Selection: Common materials include silica glass, soda-lime glass, or engineering plastics (e.g., PPS, LCP). These materials offer high dimensional stability and low thermal expansion.
Structural Features: The lid’s inner surface is often flat or micro-textured to fit tightly. It may include positioning notches or adhesive channels for easy assembly.
Dimensional Precision: Thickness ranges from 0.1mm to 1mm, with micron-level flatness (≤±5μm) to ensure uniform pressure without damaging cladding.
Critical Performance Traits
Alignment Retention: Maintains fiber core spacing accuracy (e.g., 127μm or 250μm pitch) with deviation <±1μm, preserving low insertion loss.
Mechanical Stability: Resists impact, bending, and temperature fluctuations (-40℃ to +85℃) without deformation.
Bonding Compatibility: Works with standard optical adhesives, forming a hermetic or semi-hermetic seal.
Low Optical Interference: Non-porous and optically inert materials prevent light scattering or absorption.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of a V Groove Lid?
The primary function of a V Groove Lid is to secure and protect optical fibers within V-groove substrates. It ensures precise alignment, prevents fiber displacement from external vibrations, and shields the fibers from dust, moisture, and mechanical damage.
What materials are V Groove Lids made of?
They are typically manufactured from high-stability materials such as silica glass, soda-lime glass, or high-performance engineering plastics like PPS (Polyphenylene Sulfide) and LCP (Liquid Crystal Polymer) to match the thermal expansion properties of the substrate.
How does the lid prevent signal degradation?
The lid maintains a precise alignment retention with a core pitch deviation of less than ±1μm. Additionally, the materials used are non-porous and optically inert, preventing light scattering or absorption that could otherwise lead to insertion loss.
What is the typical thickness and precision tolerance of a V Groove Lid?
V Groove Lids typically range in thickness from 0.1mm to 1mm. They feature micron-level flatness (≤±5μm) to apply even and uniform pressure across the fibers without causing damage to the fiber cladding.
Can these lids withstand extreme environmental conditions?
Yes, V Groove Lids offer excellent mechanical stability and thermal resistance, performing reliably under temperature fluctuations ranging from -40℃ up to +85℃ without structural deformation.
How are V Groove Lids bonded to the substrate during assembly?
They are designed with high bonding compatibility, allowing assembly using standard optical adhesives (such as epoxy resins) or laser welding to establish a secure, hermetic, or semi-hermetic seal.