Optical Cable Stretching Machine

Optical cable stretching devices, or fiber stretchers, are piezoelectric-based instruments that precisely modulate the optical path length of fibers for interferometry, sensing, and optical delay applications.OverviewFiber stretchers are devices that mechanically stretch optical fibers to control the optical path length, enabling precise modulation of light signals. They are commonly used in interferometric measurements, optical coherence tomography (OCT), optical coherence domain reflectometry (OCDR), sensor simulation, and variable optical delay systems . The stretching is typically achieved using piezoelectric elements, which expand or contract in response to applied voltage, thereby elongating the fiber wound around them .Types and ConfigurationsPiezoelectric Tube StretchersExample: PiezoDrive FS Optical Fiber Stretcher.Fiber is wound around a piezoelectric tube; applying voltage changes the tube diameter, stretching the fiber and altering the optical path length.Supports single-mode (SM) and polarization-maintaining (PM) fibers.Electrical configurations include single-ended (one high-voltage amplifier) and differential (two amplifiers for higher bandwidth or displacement), .Fiber Wound Piezoelectric ElementsExamples: Optiphase PZ1, PZ2, and Paulsson PZ2/PZ3 series.Fibers are wound in multiple layers around a piezo element for enhanced modulation.Can be used in high-speed interferometry, open-loop demodulation, and large-angle phase modulation.Compatible with SM, PM, or reduced cladding fibers, and can operate across wavelengths from 780 nm to 1625 nm .Linear Piezo Stack StretchersShort fiber segments are fixed on a piezo stack for low-frequency modulation.Voltage applied to the stack extends the fiber linearly, suitable for low-frequency optical delay applications .Key FeaturesHigh precision: Optical path length can be modulated with sub-micron accuracy.Versatile fiber compatibility: SM, PM, or specialized fibers.Plug-and-play operation: Many devices can be driven by standard electronics (signal generators, op-amps) without proprietary drivers .Customizable: Fiber length, number of windings, connector type, and electrical drive options can be tailored to specific applications .Applications: OCT, OCDR, fiber interferometry, sensor simulation, optical delay lines, and phase modulation .Practical ConsiderationsVoltage and driver selection: The piezoelectric element's capacitive load and modulation frequency determine the required driver specifications.Insertion loss and polarization extinction ratio (PER): Important for PM fibers to maintain signal integrity.Enclosure options: Devices may come enclosed with connectors for easy integration or as bare fiber OEM components for custom setups . Fiber stretchers are essential tools in precision optical measurement and sensing systems, providing controlled, high-speed modulation of optical signals with minimal loss and high repeatability. They are widely used in research, industrial, and medical optical systems.