Mechanical Vs. Fusion Splicing: What’s The Difference?

Fiber optic wiring is a significant part of modern telecommunications infrastructure due to its perfect bandwidth, reliability, durability, and affordability. Thus, the connection of two optical fibers with each other during setting up fiber optic wires is known as splicing. The two types of splicing are mechanical splicing and fusion splicing. In this post, you will learn a comparison of mechanical vs. fusion splicing, its perks, and various applications to help you make a wise decision for rendering your needs. 

What is fiber optic splicing?

Fiber optic splicing is the joining of two optical fibers with each other for the better transfer of light energy from one optical fiber to another optical fiber. Therefore, a fiber splice is a secure connection of two optical fibers. When the two optical fibers are attached with a splice, then they cannot be set aside and put back together. However, parting aside these is only possible when you attach with connectors. Hence, fiber splicing machine in Pakistan is usually used for four reasons:

Repairing of a damaged cable,

Extension in the length of a cable,

Joining two different cable types,

Attaching a pigtail

Before diving into a comparison of mechanical vs. fusion splicing, let’s learn about these two processes:

What is mechanical splicing?

Mechanical splicing is a method of combining two materials, usually steel strengthening bars (rebar), to make a permanent length that can hold applied loads without using heat or electricity. However, this type of splicing is used in construction, particularly in reinforced concrete structures, or as a substitute for regular lap splicing or welding. Thus, mechanical splicing is an effective method that improves construction quality and accomplishes tough engineering standards. 

Benefits of mechanical splicing:

The following are some benefits of mechanical splicing:

 Time Efficiency: this process is faster than welding or regular lap splicing.

 Accuracy: This process gives perfect alignment and load transfer.

Ecological advantages: there is less waste of material in mechanical splicing as compared to lap splicing.

Use cases of mechanical splicing:

The following are some of the best applications of mechanical splicing:

Skyscraper buildings: mechanical splicing is ideal for consistent transfer of loads in erected columns.

Bridges: this type of splicing is suitable for connecting huge-diameter rebars in significant stress zones.

Earthquake Zones: in seismic zones, these splices give strong resistance to dynamic loads and earthquakes.

What is fusion splicing?

Fusion splicing is the process of joining two optical fibers by heating their ends together. It is widely used in Fiber Optic Cable in Pakistan to create a seamless and permanent connection between fiber strands. This method ensures minimal insertion loss and reflection compared to mechanical splicing, making it the preferred choice for high-performance fiber optic networks.

Benefits of Fusion Splicing:

Lower signal loss: In fusion splicing, there is low insertion loss, usually 0.02 dB, and less back reflection.

Highly reliable: this type of splicing gives a reliable and permanent connection that is perfect for long-term use.

Durability: These splices have high resistance to temperature modifications, vibrations, and mechanical stress.

Proficient for high-density networks: fusion splicing is necessary for advanced fiber optic installations demanding constant connectivity.

Use cases of fusion splicing:

The following are some applications of fusion splicing:

Telecommunications: these splices give high-quality connections in long-distance and high-speed networks.

Data Centers: Used to interconnect fiber optic cables in dense network setups.

Broadcasting: For reliable transmission of high-definition audio and video signals.

Medical Equipment: Integrated into devices requiring precise optical transmission, such as endoscopes.

Comparison of mechanical vs. fusion splicing:

Feature:	Mechanical splicing:	Fusion splicing:
Connection type:	permanent	temporary
Maintenance:	It needs periodic application of gel or adhesive.	This method does not require periodic maintenance after splicing.
Strength:	It is not strong or degrades with time.	It is highly mechanical and has strength
Durability:	It is durable and could be affected by environmental factors.	It is durable and highly resistant to environmental factors
Cost:	Its cost is less as this process needs simple tools and alignment fixtures.	Its cost is higher and needs a fusion splicer and accessories.
Expertise required:	It is easy to do with the least expertise required.	It is more advanced and needs expert staff.
Speed:	This process is faster and takes a few seconds to make each splice.	This process is slower and takes time to setup and splicing processing.
Insertion loss:	Higher	lower
Use cases:	It is best for emergency repairs like indoor networks and testing setups.	It is perfect for long-distance fiber networks, high-speed telecommunications and data centers

Mechanical vs. fusion splicing: Which one to choose?

Mechanical splicing is suitable for:

Short-term applications, restricted budgets, or low-performance requirements.

Instant fixes or situations where a durable joint is not necessary.

While Fusion splicing is suitable for:

Permanent connections, long-distance networks, or high-performance applications.

Telecommunications, data centers, and fiber optic backbone installations.

Wrapping up:

In the comparison of Mechanical vs. Fusion Splicing, both have different use cases. Thus, mechanical splicing gives an instant and affordable solution for temporary or less strict applications. However, fusion splicing is the perfect standard for durability, performance, and reliability in significant fiber optic networks. Also, you can get Huawei OLT in Pakistan for your network connections from Network Store Online.