Newsroom
What is the Cladding Diameter?
Cladding diameter is the diameter of the glass cladding surrounding the core of an optical fiber. It is a fundamental geometric parameter that defines the physical size of the fiber's light-guiding structure and influences how the fiber can be handled, coupled, spliced, and integrated into optical systems.
The cladding diameter is particularly important in specialty fibers, where the fiber geometry may be optimized for specific optical, mechanical, or power-handling requirements.
HOW the Cladding Diameter Works
Cladding diameter defines the outer dimension of the glass region that surrounds and optically confines the fiber core. Together with the core diameter and refractive index profile, it determines the overall geometry of the fiber.
Fiber structure
The core is surrounded by a cladding layer with a lower refractive index, allowing light to remain guided within the core.
Geometrical dimension
The cladding diameter defines the overall diameter of the glass fiber, excluding any protective coating or jacket.
Fiber integration
The cladding diameter influences mechanical handling, splicing, coupling, and compatibility with optical components and fiber processing equipment.
