Silicon Dioxide Lapping Film

High-Precision Polishing Film for Final Finishing and Fiber Height Control

Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂) Lapping Film is a precision-engineered abrasive film designed for ultra-fine polishing applications where minimal material removal and superior surface quality are required. It is particularly suited for the final polishing stage of fiber optic connectors such as MT, MPO, and MTP ferrules, as well as ceramics, glass, and other delicate materials.

Key Features:

• Ultra-Fine Particle Size: Available in 0.02μm to 0.5μm for critical final polishing

• Superior End-Face Quality: Delivers low insertion loss and high return loss performance

• Uniform Abrasive Distribution: Precision-coated film ensures consistent results

• Ideal for Wet Polishing: Compatible with deionized water for clean, slurry-free operation

• Excellent for Fiber Height Control: Helps achieve controlled fiber protrusion in multi-fiber connectors

Typical Applications:

• Final Step Polishing for MT/MPO/MTP connectors

• Optical Fiber Connector End-Face Finishing

• Ceramic, glass, and sapphire polishing

• Photonic and semiconductor components finishing

• Precision optics manufacturing

Available Specifications:

Customization Options:

• Sheet sizes: 6" × 6", 8" × 10", A4, or custom

• Disc sizes: 127mm, 203mm, 228mm, etc.

• Rolls: Widths from 4" to 12", lengths up to 100 meters

• Backing: High-strength polyester

• Pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) backing optional

Polishing Process Guide for Silicon Dioxide Lapping Film

Final Polishing – Fiber Height Control & End-Face Quality

1. Preparation

Tools & Materials Needed:

• Fiber optic polishing machine or fixture (e.g., for MT/MPO)

• Silicon Dioxide lapping film (0.02–0.5 μm)

• Flat glass or ceramic polishing plate

• Deionized water (DI water)

• Cleaning wipes (lint-free)

• Compressed air (oil-free)

• Ferrule holder with proper pressure setting

2. Machine & Setup Parameters

Note: Always ensure flat contact between the film and ferrules.

3. Cleaning Before Polishing

• Clean ferrule end-face with lint-free wipe and isopropyl alcohol.

• Rinse the lapping film with DI water to remove dust.

• Ensure film is evenly adhered to the glass plate or fixture.

4. Final Polishing Process

1. Wet the Film
   Lightly spray or apply DI water over the film surface. Avoid excess.

2. Place Connector Fixture
   Insert the ferrule holder into the polishing jig or machine with uniform pressure.

3. Start Polishing
   Run the machine at controlled speed and pressure for the specified time.

4. Inspect & Repeat if Needed
   Use interferometer or video scope to inspect end-face geometry and fiber protrusion.
   Repeat polishing for uniform results.

5. Post-Polishing Inspection

• Fiber Height (Protrusion): Typically 0–100 nm

• Radius of Curvature: X > 2000 mm, Y > 50 mm (for MT-type ferrules)

• End-face Geometry: No scratches, undercut, or pits

• Cleanliness: Use IEC 61300-3-35 inspection standard

6. Cleaning After Polishing

• Rinse connectors with DI water or alcohol.

• Dry using lint-free wipe and compressed air.

• Replace the film after signs of wear or every 50–100 connectors (depending on use).

Tips for Optimal Performance

• Use only dedicated final polishing fixtures for consistency.

• Keep polishing area clean to prevent contamination.

• Replace film when fiber height becomes inconsistent.

• Store films in a clean, dry environment.