THORLABS PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens User Manual
- June 5, 2024
- THORLABS
Table of Contents
PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens User Manual
Curing Block(s) and Guide Plate(s) Sold Separately
PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Warning Symbol Definitions…………………………………………………………………………………1 Chapter 2
Safety…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..2 Chapter 3 Description
………………………………………………………………………………………………………….3 Chapter 4 Unboxing and
Setup…………………………………………………………………………………………….4
4.1. Shipping List………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4 4.2. Setup
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5 Chapter 5 Operation
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….8 5.1. Loading Connectors
……………………………………………………………………………………….. 8 5.2. Load Curing Profile
………………………………………………………………………………………… 8 5.3. Edit Profile / Custom
Profile…………………………………………………………………………….. 9 5.4.
Curing………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 10 5.6. Lights and Indicator
……………………………………………………………………………………… 11
5.6.1. Yellow Burn Hazard Light……………………………………………………………………………………….11 5.6.2. Red
Fault Light ……………………………………………………………………………………………………..11 5.6.3. End of Cycle
Indicator ……………………………………………………………………………………………12 5.6.4. Line Signal
Output…………………………………………………………………………………………………13
5.7. Export Curing Data ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 14 5.8. Shut
Down……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 15 Chapter 6 Trouble Shooting
………………………………………………………………………………………………. 16 6.1. No Power
……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 16
6.1.1. Screen Lock-up …………………………………………………………………………………………………….16 6.1.2. General
Reset ………………………………………………………………………………………………………16
Chapter 7 General Maintenance………………………………………………………………………………………….17 7.1.
Residual Epoxy Cleaning ………………………………………………………………………………. 17 7.2. General
Cleaning ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 17
Chapter 8 Specifications…………………………………………………………………………………………………….18 Chapter 9
Mechanical Drawings ………………………………………………………………………………………… 19 Chapter 10
Regulatory ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 21
10.1. Waste Treatment is Your Own Responsibility …………………………………………………. 21 10.2.
RF Interference …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 21 10.3. Ecological
Background …………………………………………………………………………………. 21 Chapter 11 Declaration of
Conformity …………………………………………………………………………………. 22 Chapter 12 Thorlabs Worldwide
Contacts…………………………………………………………………………….23
PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Chapter 1: Warning Symbol Definitions
Chapter 1 Warning Symbol Definitions
Below is a list of warning symbols you may encounter in this manual or on your
device.
Symbol Description
Direct Current
Alternating Current
Both Direct and Alternating Current
Earth Ground Terminal
Protective Conductor Terminal
Frame or Chassis Terminal
Equipotentiality
On (Supply)
Off (Supply)
In Position of a Bi-Stable Push Control
Out Position of a Bi-Stable Push Control
Caution: Risk of Electric Shock
Caution: Hot Surface
Caution: Risk of Danger
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Chapter 2 Safety
Chapter 2: Safety
SHOCK WARNING
Do not open the unit under any circumstances. There are no user serviceable
parts inside. Do not operate the unit without curing blocks.
CAUTION Before connecting the AC power cord, make sure the source voltage is
correct.
Input voltages outside this range may result in damage to the unit.
WARNING Do not use this product in environments where flammable or explosive
gasses may be present! Do not use the oven near flammable liquid, e.g.,
alcohol or acetone. Only cure epoxy in a well-ventilated
area.
WARNING Do not touch the hot oven surfaces while the unit is on or while
cooling. At the end of cycle, do not unplug unit until the yellow hazard lamp
is off.
If the red fault light is ON, disconnect the unit. The oven is malfunctioning
and must be returned to Thorlabs for inspection and repair.
Do not use or attempt to repair the malfunctioning oven.
BASIC SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Safety glasses and heat resistant gloves are required while operating this
machine.
Rev A, March 8, 2022
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Chapter 3: Description
Chapter 3 Description
The PFC100 series fiber connector epoxy curing ovens are specifically designed
for curing high performance epoxy during the fiber to ferrule termination
process. Models are available with simultaneous curing capacities of 36
connectors (PFC111 & PFC112) or 72 connectors (PFC121 & PFC122). FC/PC,
FC/APC, SMA, ST®/PC, and SC/PC connectors are compatible.
PFC100 is controlled by its own touch screen PID heater controller. It has a capability of 50 ramp soak steps and 99 preset curing schedules. The 250 W heater is capable to bring the curing area up to 150 °C (300 °F). The PID has the capability of controlling the heater ±1.5 °C during the curing cycle. The oven can be set at constant temperature (soak) or programmed ramp and soak cycle.
A time vs temperature log is recorded by the controller and then exported through the USB for tracking and quality control purposes. Refer to this manual for the procedure.
This device is solely designed for curing fiber connectors. Do not use the oven for any other purposes. Doing so will void the warranty and may cause damage to the machine and/or result in personal injury.
Check the voltage and corresponding model number before operation.
PFC111 PFC112 PFC121 PFC122
Single Bay Oven, 120 VAC Single Bay Oven, 220 VAC Dual Bay Oven, 120 VAC Dual Bay Oven, 220 VAC
The following accessories are sold separately. One curing block is required per oven bay, while the guide plates are optional:
PFC9AL PFC10AL
Aluminum Curing Block for ø8 – 9 mm Connectors Aluminum Curing Block for ø9 – 10 mm Connectors
PFC8TF PFC9TF PFC10TF
PTFE Guide Plate for ø8 mm Connectors PTFE Guide Plate for ø9 mm Connectors PTFE Guide Plate for ø10 mm Connectors
Figure 1
Curing Block (Left) and Guide Plate (Right)
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Chapter 4: Unboxing and Setup
Chapter 4 Unboxing and Setup
4.1.
· ·
· · ·
Shipping List
Curing Oven Tool Kit
o 5/32″ Hex Driver o Curing Block Removal Tools o Plastic Scraper o Plastic
Blade (5 pcs) Fiber Holder(s) (One per Bay) Region-Specific Power Cord If
Ordered: Curing Block(s) (Required; Sold Separately) and Guide Plate(s)
(Optional; Sold Separately)
Figure 2
Unit packaging, showing manual tool pouch and power cord on first layer.
The second layer contains the curing block(s) with guide plate(s) installed (if purchased) in white
cardboard box(es) above the curing oven.
Figure 3
Tools & Accessories
CAUTION
For future repair and transportation, it is recommended that the customer
retain the original packaging to prevent shipping damage. The curing block
should never be attached to the oven during
shipping. Serious damage to the unit will occur.
Rev A, March 8, 2022
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Chapter 4: Unboxing and Setup
4.2. Setup
These curing ovens are intended to be used in indoor lab and manufacturing
environments.
1. Place the unit on a level table top, preferably in a fume hood or well ventilated area. Fume may emit during the epoxy curing.
2. Plug the power supply cable into an AC outlet (120 VAC OR 220 VAC). CAUTION: This unit is voltage specific and is not dual voltage. Check the label on the back of the oven for the unit’s voltage.
Figure 4
Power Supply Connector (120 VAC Model Shown)
3. Insert the fiber holder(s) in the rear of the control console.
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Figure 5
Install Fiber Holder(s)
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Chapter 4: Unboxing and Setup
4. Prepare the curing block(s) for installation. If the optional guide plate(s) were also purchased, use the supplied hex driver to install them onto the curing block(s) using a criss cross tightening pattern. Repeat the pattern twice to ensure the block is fully seated, but do not over tighten the mounting screws. The guide plate(s) will appear loose; once heated, there will be no movement. Next, attach the lifting tools to the curing block as shown below.
Figure 6
Installing Guide Plate and Lifting Tools
5. Lower the curing block assembly onto the heater plate in the oven bay and tighten the four corner screws. Do not over tighten the curing block to the heater plate.
Figure 7
Install Curing Block on the Oven
6. Remove the lifting tools and store them in the tool holder on the back of the oven.
Rev A, March 8, 2022
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Chapter 4: Unboxing and Setup
7. Turn on the unit with the power switch located at the front. The unit will start up and go through the boot-up sequence (approx. 30 seconds).
Figure 8
On/Off Toggle Switch on Front Panel
8. When the unit boots up, the default screen will automatically be the last curing profile.
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Figure 9
Default Screen
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Chapter 5: Operation
Chapter 5 Operation
5.1. Loading Connectors
After each connector is filled with epoxy, clean off excessive epoxy. Load the
prepared connectors from rear to front. If the number of connectors is less
than the number of ports, it is recommended to space out the connectors evenly
for more accurate thermal distribution.
Figure 10
Loading Fibers
5.2. Load Curing Profile
The curing oven is preloaded with common curing profiles. The operator can
press the File button to choose between these profiles. Profiles can also be
imported or exported using an attached USB drive. Once the profile is
selected, press the “Cure” button to begin the process.
This step can be omitted if the desired profile is already loaded on the startup screen.
Rev A, March 8, 2022
Figure 11
Select Profile
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
5.3. Edit Profile / Custom Profile
After the profile is selected, press Edit to display the ramp and soak steps.
Chapter 5: Operation
Figure 12
Profile Steps & Fan Option
The operator can create up to 99 custom profiles for the oven. After pressing
“Edit”, the operator can then input the ramp time and temperature accordingly.
A new step can also be added by pressing “Add” or “Delete” for removal. By
pressing “File, Save” and input a new profile name. Alternately, the operator
can modify each step individually by clicking on each line item. Once the
profile is modified, it can either overwrite the existing profile or save file
under a new name.
Page 9
Figure 13
Step Parameters
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
5.4. Curing
Chapter 5: Operation
At default screen by pressing “Cure” the process will begin. A red profile
plot will be shown indicating the current heating status. A current
temperature is indicated on the RHS of the screen. A black time lapse
indicator at the
bottom of the graph shown the current progress status.
Figure 14
Showing oven curing in process
Rev A, March 8, 2022
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Chapter 5: Operation
5.6. Lights and Indicator
5.6.1. Yellow Burn Hazard Light
Once the oven reaches 45 °C, a yellow caution LED will turn on signalling the
burn hazard of the heating area. The light will remain on as long as the
curing block is above 45 °C regardless of whether the oven is running a curing
cycle or not.
Figure 15
Yellow Burn Caution Warning Light
5.6.2. Red Fault Light
A red warning LED will light up when the oven is too hot indicating there is a
malfunction. Do not continue to use the oven. Unit must be returned to
Thorlabs for inspection and repair.
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Figure 16
Red Fault Warning Light
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
5.6.3. End of Cycle Indicator
Chapter 5: Operation
At the “End of Cycle”, the message “Cure Complete” will be displayed across
the screen for the corresponding oven bay and the buzzer will sound for 20
seconds. The operator can touch anywhere on the screen to clear the
message. If the “Fan On” option is checked, the rear cooling fan will also
turn on, shortening the cooling time.
Figure 17
End of Cycle Screen and Rear Cooling Fan
Rev A, March 8, 2022
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Chapter 5: Operation
5.6.4. Line Signal Output
The curing oven is also equipped with a Line Light output. The output is a
Normally Open relay contact and does not provide any power. It is rated at 24
VAC or 35 VDC, 200 mA RMS (DC or AC). The load rating should not exceed these
values, or a damage to the Line Light Output might occur. The intended load is
either a light indicator (such as an Andon light) with external power, or
control inputs for such lights. No inductive load (motors, relays, solenoids,
etc.) are allowed. Inductive load might damage the Line Light output.
Figure 18
Line Light Output
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Chapter 5: Operation
5.7. Export Curing Data
The oven actively logs each curing cycle. To access these logs, go to “Tools”
and insert a USB thumb drive in the front USB port, then press “Export
Temperature Profile”. One comma-separated value (.CSV) file per oven bay will
be saved on the thumb drive, which can then be imported into spreadsheet
software. A new version with the same filename will be saved at the end of
every curing cycle.
Figure 19
Export Temperature Profile
Figure 20
Exported Data Sample (Double Bay)
(Single Bay Unit will Only Output Heater2Profile)
Rev A, March 8, 2022
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Chapter 5: Operation
5.8. Shut Down
In order to protect the integrity of the memory and the operating system, the
unit should be properly shut down. Simply press the “Tools” button and click
“Shut Down” The screen will go blank and a blue “no signal” icon will be
displayed, at which point the operator can safely turn off the unit.
The oven must be power cycled using the power switch in order to come out of the “Shut Down” state.
Figure 21
Shut Down Screen
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Chapter 6: Trouble Shooting
Chapter 6 Trouble Shooting
6.1.
No Power
The curing oven’s fuse tray is located at the power entry module on the rear panel and contains two 6.3 A fuses. Use a screwdriver to remove the fuse compartment and use a continuity meter to check if a fuse is blown. Replace both fuses with the same amperage rating and size. Using a fuse with a higher amperage rating can cause severe wire damage and could start a fire.
Figure 22
Fuse Compartment
6.1.1. Screen Lock-up
In case the screen freezes up, the curing cycle may continue running. To
unfreeze the screen, cycle the power.
6.1.2. General Reset
Turn the oven off and remove power from the outlet. Wait one minute to turn
the machine back on. The machine should go back to default screen.
Rev A, March 8, 2022
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Chapter 7: General Maintenance
Chapter 7 General Maintenance
7.1.
Residual Epoxy Cleaning
Before any cleaning, ensure the oven is at room temperature and the power is disconnected.
Safety Glasses and Gloves Required
There maybe broken glass fiber inside the curing compartent
During normal use there may be epoxy deposit and broken glass fiber on the the
curing block or the heater plate. The curing block and heater plate are coated
with non-stick coating. Epoxy will generally bead up upon curing. Do not use
any hard object to scrape off epoxy residue. The enclosed plastic scraper can
easily remove the cured epoxy. Then the loose epoxy can be removed by
vacuuming or be picked up with masking tape. Discard the loose epoxy and
uncured epoxy in accordance with local regulations.
Figure 23
Clean Epoxy from Heater Plate
7.2. General Cleaning
When necessary, let the unit cool to room temperature and disconnect the
power. The unit can be wiped with a cloth soaked with isopropyl alcohol. Do
not spray any liquid on the unit and do not use acetone on unit as it will
damage the markings and plastic components.
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Chapter 8 Specifications
Chapter 8: Specifications
Item #
PFC111
PFC112
PFC121
PFC122
Compatible Fiber Connectors Connector Capacity Max Temperature Temperature Accuracy Power Consumption Max # of Curing Profiles Max # of Steps Temperature Logging Operating Conditions Storage Conditions
FC/PC, FC/APC, ST®/PC, SMA
36
72
150 °C
±1.5 °C
250 W (Single Bay)
500 W (Double Bay)
99
50
1 min. Increment CSV Format Accessible Through USB
15 to 30 °C, 0 – 85% RH (Non-Condensing)
-40 to 80 °C, 0 – 95% RH (Non-Condensing)
Power Source
90-130 VAC @ 47-63 Hz
210-240 VAC @ 47-63 Hz
90-130 VAC @ 47-63 Hz
210-240 VAC @ 47-63 Hz
Physical Dimensions Mass (Weight)
16.96″ x 15.10″ x 9.72″
24.88″ x 15.10″ x 9.72″
(430.7 mm x 383.6 mm x 247.0 mm) (631.8 mm x 383.6 mm x 247.0 mm)
7 kg (15 lbs)
10 kg (22 lbs)
Rev A, March 8, 2022
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Chapter 9 Mechanical Drawings
Chapter 9: Mechanical Drawings
Figure 24
Single Bay Ovens (Curing Blocks Sold Separately)
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Chapter 9: Mechanical Drawings
Figure 25
Double Bay Ovens (Curing Blocks Sold Separately)
Rev A, March 8, 2022
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Chapter 10: Regulatory
Chapter 10 Regulatory
As required by the WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive)
of the European Community and the corresponding national laws, Thorlabs offers
all end users in the EC the possibility to return “end of life” units without
incurring disposal charges.
· This offer is valid for Thorlabs electrical and electronic equipment: · Sold after August 13, 2005 · Marked correspondingly with the crossed out “wheelie bin” logo (see right) · Sold to a company or institute within the EC · Currently owned by a company or institute within the EC · Still complete, not disassembled and not contaminated
As the WEEE directive applies to self-contained operational electrical and electronic products, this end of life take back service does not refer to other Thorlabs products, such as:
· Pure OEM products, that means assemblies to be built into a unit by the user (e. g. OEM laser driver cards) · Components · Mechanics and optics · Left over parts of units disassembled by the user (PCB’s, housings etc.).
If you wish to return a Thorlabs unit for waste recovery, please contact Thorlabs or your nearest dealer for further information.
10.1. Waste Treatment is Your Own Responsibility
If you do not return an “end of life” unit to Thorlabs, you must hand it to a
company specialized in waste recovery. Do not dispose of the unit in a litter
bin or at a public waste disposal site.
10.2. RF Interference
WARNING
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules and meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Standard ICES003 for digital apparatus. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
The use of shielded I/O cables shorter than 3 meters (9.8 feet) is required when connecting this equipment to any and all optional peripheral or host devices. Failure to do so may violate FCC and ICES rules.
Thorlabs GmbH is not responsible for any radio television interference caused by modifications of this equipment or the substitution or attachment of connecting cables and equipment other than those specified by Thorlabs GmbH. The correction of interference caused by such unauthorized modification, substitution or attachment will be the responsibility of the user.
10.3. Ecological Background
It is well known that WEEE pollutes the environment by releasing toxic
products during decomposition. The aim of the European RoHS directive is to
reduce the content of toxic substances in electronic products in the future.
The intent of the WEEE directive is to enforce the recycling of WEEE. A controlled recycling of end of life products will thereby avoid negative impacts on the environment.
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Chapter 11 Declaration of Conformity
Chapter 11: Declaration of Conformity
Rev A, March 8, 2022
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PFC100 Series Fiber Connector Epoxy Curing Ovens
Chapter 12: Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts
Chapter 12 Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts
For technical support or sales inquiries, please visit us at
www.thorlabs.com/contact for our most up-to-date contact information.
USA, Canada, and South America Thorlabs, Inc. sales@thorlabs.com
techsupport@thorlabs.com
Europe Thorlabs GmbH europe@thorlabs.com
France Thorlabs SAS sales.fr@thorlabs.com
Japan Thorlabs Japan, Inc. sales@thorlabs.jp
UK and Ireland Thorlabs Ltd. sales.uk@thorlabs.com techsupport.uk@thorlabs.com
Scandinavia Thorlabs Sweden AB scandinavia@thorlabs.com
Brazil Thorlabs Vendas de Fotônicos Ltda. brasil@thorlabs.com
China Thorlabs China chinasales@thorlabs.com
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www.thorlabs.com
References
- Thorlabs, Inc. - Your Source for Fiber Optics, Laser Diodes, Optical Instrumentation and Polarization Measurement & Control
- Thorlabs, Inc. - Your Source for Fiber Optics, Laser Diodes, Optical Instrumentation and Polarization Measurement & Control
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