Fiber optic connectors in cryogenic conditions – robustness counts

New White Paper: “Fischer FiberOptic at Cryogenic Temperatures”

he use of fiber optic sensors in cryogenic conditions is rare: our new white paper presents the performances of a Fischer FiberOptic Series connector when tested at low temperatures (1.9 Kelvin) at the European Organization for Nuclear Research’s (CERN) SM18 test facility. The test results confirm the ruggedness of our connectivity solution, which is able to deliver precision optical performance in cryogenic and other extreme applications.

Authored by Jean-Baptise Gay, Project Manager at Fischer Connectors, this white paper outlines the key factors to be taken into account when using fiber optic sensors in cryogenic environments, e.g. for temperature and strain monitoring in superconducting magnets. These include insertion and return losses and cool-down measurements to determine optical and sealing performance.

The CERN tests demonstrated that the Fischer FiberOptic Series operates effectively at cryogenic temperatures, with a minimal effect on insertion and return losses, and on optical and sealing performance. It provides an excellent baseline measurement for further testing and a good starting point for investigating fiber optic interconnect solutions for other cryogenic applications.

Liquefied natural gas (LNG) pipelines, where temperatures can drop to approximately -180°C, are another example of an application that depends on robustness to ensure reliable, long-term performance. As demonstrated in the CERN tests, optical fiber can be used to monitor temperatures along the pipeline even in extreme cold.