Process Techniques for Engineering High-Performance Materials

54 Process Techniques for Engineering High-Performance Materials

Fiber

ribbon

Inner

core

Wire

20

Metal sheath

Outer

cover

Outer

core

Wire

22

24

18

16

12

14

Fiber-optic cable has a diverse spectrum of technology applications. The

product has been evolving for years to deliver better performance in spe-

cic end-use areas. For instance, improved glass purity has increased the

distance between the amplier facilities on undersea communication cables.

Modern bers still carry 80% of their signal strength after a kilometer of

transmission. The materials used in eyeglasses are considerably less pure,

losing the same amount of light in only 3ft. of thickness.

These ad ...