Specialty optical fiber fabrication: preform manufacturing based on asymmetrical CO laser heating

Abstract

Here, we present an innovative preform manufacturing technique for specialty optical fibers based on a carbon monoxide laser heating a rotating preform. The setup performance is evaluated with the aid of finite element modeling. The fabrication process is described in detail using silicon core preforms as a benchmark. The hybrid material nature of such a preform is addressed, together with the relevant characteristics, such as the difference in thermal conductivity and thermal expansion. Silicon core preforms with a wide range of core sizes were manufactured, proving the viability of this system for the development of specialty optical fibers based on novel materials.