Conjugate Heat Transfer in an Optical Fiber Coating Process

Abstract

The optical fiber coating process in an axisymmetric applicator and die system is simulated in this study. Various thermal conditions and process variables are investigated with ultraviolet-curable acrylates used for the coating material. Conjugate heat transfer is considered at the moving fiber surface. The temperature level in the applicator and die is found to increase with fiber speed, the increase being highest in the die. This high temperature rise is due primarily to the tremendous viscous dissipation within the fluid. This work can be used to improve the quality of the coating, uniformity, and the production rate.

The authors acknowledge support for this work by the National Science Foundation under Grant CTS-0119356.