LIAM TAYLOR FIBRE CLEANING
THE SHIFT TOWARD AUTOMATED CLEANING SYSTEMS As fibre networks scale and performance demands rise, the industry is shifting toward more reliable and efficient cleaning solutions. Automated cleaning systems, especially contactless systems that use pressurised fluid and air, are leading this change. These automated cleaning devices use a contact-free process that ensures consistent, high-quality results with every use. The system operates in two key steps. First, it delivers a tightly controlled, metered spray of a specialised cleaning fluid directly onto the fibre optic end face. This fluid effectively breaks down and lifts away dust, oils, and other microscopic contaminants. Immediately afterward, a burst of clean, filtered air is applied to the connector. This air stream rapidly evaporates any remaining fluid, leaving the surface completely dry and residue-free. The result is a thorough, uniform clean achieved without any physical contact that could risk scratching or damaging the delicate end face. Key Advantages of Automated, Contactless Cleaning • Total End Face Cleaning Coverage: Manual methods often concentrate on the centre of the ferrule—the contact zone—but leave contamination on the outer edges. Automated systems clean the entire end face, including the often- overlooked perimeter, reducing the chance of debris migrating inward and disrupting the optical path over time. • No Physical Contact = No Scratches: Without contact, there’s no opportunity
configurations. With this adaptable setup, technicians no longer need to carry multiple cleaning tools or switch between different techniques—one device manages it all efficiently. • Eco-Conscious Design: Once the automated system is bought, the only consumable is the cleaning fluid—no need for disposable wipes, swabs, or plastic cleaning sticks. This drastically cuts down on consumables waste and offers a more sustainable footprint over time. • Cost Efficiency: Fluid refills are high- yield, and many devices are engineered for precise dispensing, so every millilitre is put to good use. Organisations can realise significant savings in consumables, labour, and time compared to manual methods. ADDRESSING THE HURDLES OF AUTOMATION Like any modern technology, automated cleaning systems come with considerations that must be factored into deployment. • Higher Upfront Cost: Automated systems involve a capital investment— though prices are coming down as technology becomes more widespread. It’s worth weighing this cost against the long-term savings in labour, equipment protection, and performance uptime. • Training and Familiarity: Although most systems are intuitive and user-friendly, technicians still need basic training. Fortunately, the learning curve is short, and most users become proficient within minutes. Once integrated into workflows, these devices simplify the process and reduce reliance on specialised skills. USE CASES WHERE AUTOMATION SHINES While manual cleaning still holds value, especially in small-scale or heavy- contamination scenarios, automated cleaning is particularly helpful in the following situations: • Data Centres and Hyperscale Networks: With thousands of connectors and dense configurations, data centres demand speed
• Cleanroom and Lab Settings: In high- purity applications, avoiding contact is a significant benefit. Touchless systems reduce the introduction of foreign materials and maintain the sterile conditions necessary for optical component testing or assembly. COMPARING COSTS: MANUAL VS. AUTOMATED It’s easy to look at the sticker price of an automated system and assume manual cleaning is the more economical choice. However, a deeper analysis tells another story (see chart, below). Over time, automated systems typically pay for themselves through: • Reduced rework and fewer connector replacements
• Faster technician throughput • Lower consumables usage
• Fewer site visits or service call backs • Better network uptime and customer satisfaction FINAL THOUGHTS: CLEANING FOR THE FUTURE As fibre networks evolve to support higher bandwidth, faster speeds, and more users, the margin for error narrows. Reliable, repeatable cleaning is no longer optional— it’s foundational to ensuring performance, avoiding downtime, and protecting expensive infrastructure. While manual methods are still useful in specific cases, especially where short- term budget or mobility is a concern, they simply can’t match the speed, precision, and protection offered by automated systems. Touchless cleaners are the next leap forward in fibre maintenance, enabling organisations to operate with confidence—even under the most demanding conditions. By investing in automated, contactless cleaning now, network operators are not
for abrasive damage. This preserves the polished end face and extends
connector lifespan, especially important in environments with repeated connect/ disconnect cycles. • Precision-Controlled Cleaning: Fluid volume and pressure are tightly regulated, ensuring just the right amount is used every time. This eliminates the risk of oversaturation and pooling— common issues with manual fluid use. • Rapid Cleaning in Seconds: An entire cleaning cycle takes only a few seconds. This speed makes the solution ideal for dense patch panels, large- scale deployments, and high-traffic maintenance windows where every second counts. • Repeatable, Technician-Independent Results: Because the process is automated, it delivers consistent results regardless of who is using it. That consistency is crucial for organisations managing teams with varying experience levels or working across multiple sites. • Safe for All Connectors and Genders: The touchless cleaner features a reusable, interchangeable adapter tip system designed to accommodate the most common fibre optic connector types, including both male and female, standard, APC, and multifibre
just upgrading their tools. They’re future-proofing their operations,
enhancing technician productivity, and ensuring the integrity of their networks for years to come.
and accuracy. A touchless system can clean dozens of connectors in the time it takes to manually clean a few. • Fibre to the Home (FTTH) Deployments: Technicians in the field need to ensure fast turn-up with minimal callbacks. Portable automated systems simplify cleaning at customer premises and ensure first-time success. • Telecom Hubs and Central Offices: These environments rely on up-time. Preventing rework, protecting connectors, and reducing error-induced failures all translate to lower operational risk.
As network demands grow, understanding the pros and cons of traditional manual cleaning methods versus modern automated, contactless systems is essential for choosing the right solution.
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ISSUE 41 | Q2 2025
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