Vytran® Fiber Recoaters with UV Curing LEDs


  • Recoat Spliced Fibers for Full Protection and Flexibility
  • UV Curing LEDs Provide Fast Curing Times and Long Lifetimes
  • Available with Manual or Automatic Mold Assembly and Recoat Injector

PTR404B

100 mm Fiber Recoater with
Manual Recoat Injector

PTR305

50 mm Fiber Recoater with Automatic
Mold Assembly and Recoat Injector

RM430UVA

50 mm Mold Assembly for
Manual Recoaters
(Sold Separately)

VHJT

Fiber Holding Block Top Insert (Sold Separately)

VHV400

Fiber Holding Block Bottom Insert for Ø400 µm Fiber (Sold Separately)

Related Items


Please Wait

Building a Complete Fiber Processing System?

To build a complete system, you will need to purchase a base unit plus additional components that are dependent upon the size of the fiber being processed. We recommend that you contact us prior to ordering for assistance with choosing a system and all the necessary components. This also allows us to install and factory-align all system components within the base unit prior to shipping, ensuring optimal performance out-of-the-box.

To take advantage of this assistance, please e-mail us directly at techsupport@thorlabs.com and a representative will contact you shortly.

Fiber Recoaters with UV Curing LEDs
Item # Mold
Assembly
Recoat
Injector
Max Recoat
Length
PTR305 Automatic Automatic 50 mm
PTR403 Manual Automatic 50 mm
PTR403B Manual Manual 50 mm
PTR404B Manual Manual 100 mm
Fiber Recoater
Click to Enlarge

Thorlabs' PTR403B Fiber Recoater Indicating the Mold Assembly, Fiber Holding Blocks, and Inserts

Features

  • Recoat Fusion-Spliced Fibers to Protect Splice and Restore Flexibility
  • Four Manual and Automatic System Options
  • Fully Programmable Using the Included Controller
  • Push Buttons on Recoaters Start and Stop Recoat Process
  • Durable Quartz Mold Plate Capable of >10 000 Recoats
  • Replacement Components Sold Separately Below

Thorlabs' Vytran® Fiber Recoaters restore the coating to a fusion-spliced fiber. The recoat material is injected through a cross-channel in the top plate into the mold assembly and then cured by ultraviolet (UV) LEDs. The LEDs provide faster cure times and longer lifetimes than the halogen lamps used in other fiber recoaters. One recoater with an automatic mold assembly is available; other recoaters use manual mold assemblies. Our automatic recoater utilizes a pneumatic mold assembly that directly injects recoat material into the mold cavity while our manual recoaters use a hinged top that can be opened and closed by hand. Both the automatic and manual recoaters use a split-quartz mold. The mold's surface is coated to prevent any recoat material that migrates between the plates from curing and forming imperfections on the finished recoat.

Each recoater uses a volumetric dispensing pump to inject the recoat material into the mold cavity; the PTR305 and PTR403 recoaters incorporate automatic injection systems while the PTR403B and PTR404B recoater have manual injection systems. The recoated fiber is then cured by UV LEDs integrated within the mold assembly housing. The fiber recoating process restores the buffer coating to a stripped fiber, giving it the same flexibility as when originally manufactured. Unlike standard heat shrink protection sleeves, a recoated fiber can be handled and coiled normally, without risking the fusion-spliced section of fiber.

The recoat process starts with the fusion-spliced section of fiber being placed in the middle of the mold assembly. Once set in position, inserts in the fiber holding blocks secure the spliced fiber in place. Recoat material is pumped into the cavity and then UV-cured. Due to their ability to restore a fusion-spliced fiber to original condition, fiber recoaters are ideal for manufacturing high-stress or sensitive fibers such as undersea optical fiber cables, submarine communication cabling, fiber lasers, or Distributed Bragg Reflector (DBR) lasers.

See the Tutorial Videos tab for information on the various options available for recoaters and a demonstration of how to perform a fiber recoat.

Mold Assemblies
The PTR305 automatic recoater comes standard with a mold assembly for Ø430 µm coated fibers. For our recoaters using manual mold assemblies, the mold assemblies are sold separately so that customers can choose the right mold for the coating diameter in their application. Custom mold coating sizes are available up to Ø900 µm. Pre-installation of the mold assembly at the factory is also available. Contact Tech Support for more information on custom molds or factory assembly.

Inserts for Fiber Holding Blocks
In addition to the above, we offer a variety of inserts for use in the fiber holding blocks of the recoaters in order to support a wide range of fiber coating diameters; a total of four inserts are necessary for each recoater (two top inserts and two bottom inserts). See the subgroup below for details.

Recoat Materials
Thorlabs offers both high-index (Item # AB950200) and low-index (Item # PC373) recoat materials for use in these recoaters. Recoaters with manual injection pumps (Item #s PTR403B and PTR404B) are compatible with both types of recoat material; the automatic injection pump of the PTR305 and PTR403 recoaters is compatible with the high-index material only. The automatic injector can be customized to work with both the low- and high-index recoat material; please contact Tech Support for more information.

Item # PTR305 PTR403 PTR403B PTR404B
Recoater Type Automatic Manual
Recoater Mold Pneumatic Split Quartz Platesa Hinged Split Quartz Plates
Recoat Diameterb 430 µm 280 µm, 430 µm, or 600 µmc
UV Curing Source 32 UV LEDs 14 UV LEDs
(Integrated in Mold Assembly)
28 UV LEDs
(Integrated in Mold Assembly)
Maximum
Recoat Length
50 mm 100 mm
Recoat Material High-Index UV Curable Acrylate High- or Low-Index UV Curable Acrylate
Recoat Injection Automatic Manuald Manuale
Recoat Volume Programmable (µL) Manual
Recoat Injection Rate Programmable (≤1.8 µL/s) Manual
Cure Timef 17 s (Typical) 15 s (Typical) 16 s (Typical)
Mold Cleaning
Requirementg
At Start Up and Shut Downh After Every Recoat
Total Cycle Time 45 s (Typical) 60 s (Typical)
Dimensions
(L × W × H)
10.14" × 5.77" × 6.50"
(257.6 mm × 146.7 mm × 165.1 mm)
10.14" × 5.30" × 6.88" i
(257.4 mm × 134.6 mm × 174.8 mm)
10.13" × 5.30" × 7.13" i
(257.4 mm × 134.6 mm × 181.2 mm)
AC Power 110 - 120 V / 200 - 240 V, 47-63 Hz 100 - 240 VAC; 47 - 63 Hz
Controller Type Handset (Item # VYT300C)
  • Requires an 80 - 120 psi Dry Compressed Air Source
  • Custom sizes available; contact Tech Support.
  • Depends on the Mold Assembly (See the Mold Assembly Presentation Below)
  • Replacement Item # PTRRRM, Available Separately Below
  • Replacement Item # PTRRRML, Available Separately Below
  • Programmable via Controller; Mold Size and Recoat Material Dependent
  • The mold should be cleaned with either acetone or isopropyl alcohol, applied with a cotton swab. If the mold has an accumulation of cured material stuck on the plates, allow the cleaning solution (preferably acetone) about 60 - 90 seconds to soften and lift the material from the surface.
  • The mold assembly should be cleaned before the first recoating process of the day and then again after the last recoating process of the day.
  • With required mold assembly (sold separately) installed.

The VYT300C handset controller is shipped with the recoaters sold below. One handset controller can be used to configure parameters on multiple fiber processing units in succession. Full instructions for using the handset controller can be found in the manual for each device. The screenshots below highlight key features of the graphical user interface.


Click to Enlarge

The initial screen on the VYT300C Handset Controller gives the option to begin curing. Other menus can be accessed by swiping the touchscreen left or right, or by tapping the options at the top of the screen.

Click to Enlarge

While curing, the controller displays the parameters defined on the Edit tab and the progress of the cure. The Stop button can be used to end the active cure.

Click to Enlarge

The Recoat screen will also show the status of any macro that the device is currently running.

Click to Enlarge

The Edit menu allows the user to set inject parameters, such as quantity, rate, shrink time, and purge cycles; these settings are available only when using the PTR403. Cure parameters on both PTR403 and PTR403B include start and stop times for each pair of UV curing LEDs, as well as LED power.

Click to Enlarge

The suite of tools available through the handset controller includes a record of the total cure time of the machine (under Process Counters) that is not shown on the tablet controller. See the manuals of the compatible fiber recoaters for more information on these tools.

Click to Enlarge

The handset controller can open, save, delete, export, and import files containing parameters for compatible systems. Exporting or importing a file will require a memory device to be connected to the Program Port of the handset controller.

Tutorial Videos

To assist new or returning users with operating our PTR Fiber Recoaters, we have created video tutorials aimed at teaching the basic skills needed to run the machine. In order to be able to read the text in the videos, we strongly recommend viewing these videos at full screen, 1080p resolution. If you require assistance using your PTR fiber recoater, please contact us at techsupport@thorlabs.com.

Introduction

This video discusses recoating fibers after a splice and various options available for recoaters.

Performing a Fiber Recoat

This video demonstrates how to use a PTR series recoater to reinstate an acrylate coating on recently spliced optical fibers.

Product Demonstrations

Thorlabs has demonstration facilities for the Vytran® fiber glass processing systems offered on this page within our Morganville, New Jersey; Shanghai, China; and Exeter, Devonshire offices. We invite you to schedule a visit to see these products in operation and to discuss the various options with a fiber processing specialist. Please schedule a demonstration at one of our locations below by contacting technical support. We welcome the opportunity for personal interaction during your visit!

Thorlabs Vytran Europe
Exeter, United Kingdom

2 Kew Court
Exeter EX2 5AZ
United Kingdom

Appointment Scheduling and Customer Support

Thorlabs' Exeter Office
Click to Enlarge

Thorlabs China
Shanghai, China

Room A101, No.100, Lane 2891, South Qilianshan Road
Shanghai 200331
China

Appointment Scheduling and Customer Support

Thorlabs' China Office
Click to Enlarge

Thorlabs Vytran USA
Morganville, New Jersey, USA

1400 Campus Dr
Morganville, NJ 07751
USA

Appointment Scheduling and Customer Support

Thorlabs' Morganville Office
Click to Enlarge


Posted Comments:
Demetrios Poulios  (posted 2023-08-04 15:48:47.37)
would it be possible to get a certificate of conformance or material certification for the high and low recoat materials? we would be using these for a space flight application. Thanks for your help!
cdolbashian  (posted 2023-08-30 09:27:06.0)
Thank you for reaching out to us with this inquiry. While we do provide an SDS for this material, we do not have such requested documentation to share. I have contacted you directly to discuss the acquisition of this documentation.
Katharina Hausmann  (posted 2023-05-30 12:11:41.057)
It would be highly recommended to have an up-to-date safety data sheet for this material in English and/or German. This SDS is not up to date as hazard pictograms are present in the Japanese version but not in the English version. Thank you.

The table below outlines the entire PTR series to directly compare the capabilities across the whole line.

Vytran® PTR Series Recoater and Proof Tester Selection Guide
Item # UV Curing Source Mold Assembly Proof Tester Recoat Injection Pump Max Recoat Length Recoat Material Mold Cleaning Requirement
High Index
(Item # AB950200)
Low Index
(Item # PC373)
Dedicated Proof Testers
PTR301 N/A N/A Linear N/A N/A - - N/A
PTR302 Rotary - -
Dedicated Recoatersa
PTR403 LEDs Manual N/A Automatic 50 mm yes - After Every Recoat Process
PTR403B Manual 50 mm yes yes
PTR404B Manual 100 mm
PTR305 LEDs Automatic N/A Automatic 50 mm yes - Dailyb
Recoaters with Proof Testersa
PTR406 LEDs Manual Linear Automatic 50 mm yes - After Every Recoat Process
PTR406B Manual 50 mm yes yes
PTR407 LEDs Manual Rotary Automatic 50 mm yes - After Every Recoat Process
PTR407B Manual 50 mm yes yes
PTR308 LEDs Automatic Linear Automatic 50 mm yes - Dailyb
  • These recoaters are designed to be used with high- or low-index recoater material. Thorlabs also offers the PRL201, which is designed for polyimide-coated fibers.
  • The mold assembly of these recoaters should be cleaned before the first recoating process of the day and then again after the last recoating process of the day.
Back to Top

Fiber Recoater with Automatic Mold Assembly and Recoat Injector

Included

  • Automatic Fiber Recoater
  • Pneumatic Mold Assembly for Ø430 µm Coatings
  • Quick Snap-On Connectors for Compressed Air Source
  • Location-Specific Power Cord
  • Handset Controller
  • 1/8" Outer Diameter Pressure Supply Tubing and Fittings Kit

Must be Purchased Separately

  • Fiber Holding Block Top Inserts (Two Required)
  • Fiber Holding Block Bottom Inserts (Two Required)
  • High-Index Recoat Material (One Bottle Required)
  • 80 - 120 psi Compressed Air/Gas Source (Not Available from Thorlabs)
  • Available Standard for Ø430 µm Coatings
  • 50 mm Maximum Recoat Length
  • Compatible with High-Index Recoat Material
  • Ideal for Medium- to High-Volume Manufacturing

Thorlabs' Automatic Fiber Recoater completely automates the fiber recoat process; fully programmable, it can be operated either through the handset controller (which gives full programming capabilities) or via buttons on the top of the machine. 

Our PTR305 Automatic Fiber Recoater uses a pneumatic mold assembly to control the mold plates. This design allows the recoat material to be directly injected into the mold cavity, eliminating any excess material, which would require cleaning after every recoat. Additionally, once the fiber is secured in the fiber holding blocks, the entire recoat process is performed automatically. This clean, automated process makes the PTR305 ideal for high-volume manufacturing. This recoater is designed for fiber coatings of Ø430 µm and requires the purchase of fiber block inserts (sold below). Choose the inserts that match the coating diameter of the fiber being used. It is compatible with high-index recoat material only (sold below). The pneumatic design of the mold assembly requires an external 80 - 120 psi compressed air source (not available from Thorlabs).

A handset controller, which comes standard with the PTR305, allows the user to control and program the unit. All recoat parameters can be set through this controller. 

Customized mold sizes for recoat diameters up to 900 µm are available; please contact Tech Support for more information.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
PTR305 Support Documentation
PTR305Fiber Recoater with UV LEDs, Automatic Mold Assembly and Recoat Injector, 50 mm Max Fiber Recoat Length
$30,381.11
Lead Time
Back to Top

Fiber Recoater with Automatic Recoat Injector (Manual Mold Assembly Required)

Included

  • Fiber Recoater
  • Location-Specific Power Cord
  • Handset Controller

Must be Purchased Separately

  • Mold Assembly (One Required)
  • Fiber Holder Top Inserts (Two Required)
  • Fiber Holder Bottom Inserts (Two Required)
  • High-Index Recoat Material (One Bottle Required)

Replacement Parts

  • Injection Tube
  • Compatible with Mold Assemblies for Coating Diameters of 280 µm, 430 µm, or 600 µm
  • 50 mm Maximum Recoat Length
  • Compatible with High-Index Recoat Material
  • Ideal for Low-Volume Manufacturing and R&D

The PTR403 fiber recoater uses a hinged mold assembly (sold separately below) to form the mold cavity for recoating. This design allows the recoat material to be injected through a cross-channel in the mold's top plate. Intended for low-volume manufacturing and R&D applications, the mold assembly can be easily swapped out and the process parameters can be easily changed, providing flexibility and adaptability, but the mold assembly requires cleaning between each recoat process.

This recoater features an automated pump to inject the recoat material. The amount of material dispensed by the automatic injector is controlled by hand via the top-mounted "Inject" button or programmed into the machine by the included VYT300C controller. The automatic injector is only compatible with high-index recoat material (sold below); however, an add-on unit that can use both low- and high-index recoat materials is available. Please contact Tech Support for more information.

When purchasing a fiber recoater, both a mold assembly and a set of appropriately sized fiber holding block inserts must be purchased separately. A handset controller is included with the PTR403 recoater.

Mold Assembly
Compatible mold assemblies are available for coating diameters of 280 µm, 430 µm, and 600 µm. Customized recoat diameters up to 900 µm are also available; please contact Tech Support for more information. The UV curing LEDs are housed within the mold assemblies for the PTR403 recoater; there is no UV curing source within the unit itself. See compatible mold assemblies below.

Fiber Holding Block Inserts
A total of four inserts (two top and two bottom) are required for the recoater unit. Inserts are available for fiber diameters from 80 µm to 1000 µm. See compatible fiber holding block inserts below.

Included Controller
The PTR403 recoater is shipped with the VYT300C handset controller, which allows the user to program and control the recoater unit. Adjustable settings include the inject rate, inject amount, cure time, lamp power, and programming custom recipes. An injection calculator provides an estimate of recoat parameters that can be refined by the user. Please see the Controller tab for details.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
PTR403 Support Documentation
PTR403Fiber Recoater with Automatic Recoat Injector, Requires UV LED Manual Mold Assembly, 50 mm Max Fiber Recoat Length
$8,776.71
Lead Time
Back to Top

Fiber Recoaters with Manual Recoat Injectors (Manual Mold Assemblies Required)

Included

  • Fiber Recoater
  • Location-Specific Power Cord
  • Handset Controller

Must be Purchased Separately

  • Mold Assembly (One Required)
  • Fiber Holder Top Inserts (Two Required)
  • Fiber Holder Bottom Inserts (Two Required)
  • High- or Low-Index Recoat Material (One Bottle Required)

Replacement Parts

  • Manual Injector
  • Injection Tube
  • Syringe Barrel
100 mm Fiber Recoater
Click to Enlarge

The PTR404B has a maximum recoat length of 100 mm, while the PTR403B has a maximum recoat length of 50 mm.
  • Compatible with Mold Assemblies for Coating Diameters of 280 µm, 430 µm, or 600 µm
  • 50 mm or 100 mm Maximum Recoat Length
  • Ideal for Low-Volume Manufacturing and R&D
  • Compatible with High- and Low-Index Recoat Material

These fiber recoaters use a hinged mold assembly (sold separately below) to form the mold cavity for recoating. This design allows the recoat material to be injected through a cross-channel in the mold's top plate. Intended for low-volume manufacturing and R&D applications, the mold assembly can be easily swapped out and the process parameters can be easily changed, providing flexibility and adaptability, but the mold assembly requires cleaning between each recoat process.

Each recoater features a manual recoat injection system. The user is required to dispense the recoat material into the mold cavity. This manual injection system is compatible with both low- and high-index recoat material (sold separately below). Additionally, replacement injectors are available below.

When selecting ones of these recoaters, both a mold assembly and a set of appropriately sized fiber holding block inserts must be chosen. A handset controller is included with the each recoater.

Mold Assembly
Compatible mold assemblies are available for coating diameters of 280 µm, 430 µm, and 600 µm. Customized recoat diameters up to 900 µm are also available; please contact Tech Support for more information. The UV curing LEDs are housed within the mold assemblies for these recoaters; there is no UV curing source within the unit itself. See compatible mold assemblies below. Separate mold assemblies are available for 50 mm and 100 mm fiber recoaters.

Fiber Holding Block Inserts
A total of four inserts (two top and two bottom) are required for the recoater unit. Inserts are available for fiber diameters from 80 µm to 1000 µm. See compatible fiber holding block inserts below.

Included Controller
Each recoater is shipped with the VYT300C handset controller, which allows the user to program and control the recoater unit. Adjustable settings include the inject rate, inject amount, cure time, lamp power, and programming custom recipes. An injection calculator provides an estimate of recoat parameters that can be refined by the user. Please see the Controller tab for details.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
PTR403B Support Documentation
PTR403BCustomer Inspired! Fiber Recoater with Manual Recoat Injector, Requires UV LED Manual Mold Assembly, 50 mm Max Fiber Recoat Length
$7,179.45
Lead Time
PTR404B Support Documentation
PTR404BFiber Recoater with Manual Recoat Injector, Requires UV LED Manual Mold Assembly, 100 mm Max Fiber Recoat Length
$10,481.66
3 weeks
Back to Top

Mold Assemblies - One Required for Manual Fiber Recoaters

Item # Coating
Diameter
Max
Recoat Length
Compatible
Recoatersa
RM280UVA 280 µm 50 mm PTR403
PTR403B
RM430UVA 430 µm
RM600UVA 600 µm
RM280UVL 280 µm 100 mm PTR404B
RM430UVL 430 µm
RM600UVL 600 µm
  • Only the compatible recoaters sold on this page are listed.
  • Compatible with UV LED Fiber Recoaters
  • UV LEDs Integrated Inside Mold Assembly Housing
  • Three Available Mold Coating Diameters: 280 µm, 430 µm, and 600 µm
  • 50 mm or 100 mm Maximum Recoat Length

The Mold Assemblies are composed of split quartz mold plates which, when closed, form the cylindrical mold cavity around the exposed section of the fiber being recoated. They are available for Ø280 µm, Ø430 µm, or Ø600 µm fiber coatings and in maximum fiber recoat lengths of 50 mm (compatible with Item #s PTR403 and PTR403B) or 100 mm (compatible with Item # PTR404B). Custom mold sizes up to Ø900 µm are available; please contact Tech Support for more information. Mold assemblies with a 50 mm recoat length feature a lever to assist with opening or closing the mold.

Recoat material (sold below) is injected into the mold assembly by either an automatic or manual injection system. Then, UV light from the integrated LEDs cures the recoat material. Cure times range from 15 s to 90 s depending on mold size and recoat material. The recoater mold assembly should be cleaned throughly with isopropyl alcohol or acetone between each recoating process; reliable and repeatable performance is highly dependent on the cleanliness of the mold.

When purchasing a manual fiber recoater for the first time, it is necessary to choose a mold assembly that is appropriate for the chosen recoater and desired fiber coating diameter. Additional mold assemblies may also be purchased and swapped out by the user. The assembly simply screws to the top of the device, making the removal and install simple and easy. Because of this, our manual recoaters are adaptable and flexible in the field and can be modified to accept varying diameters of fiber quickly. A recoater mold can be factory installed prior to shipment upon request by contacting Tech Support. It is also necessary to order the proper inserts (sold below) that best match the fiber diameter being used, whether purchasing a fiber recoater for the first time or updating a current recoater for a different fiber diameter.

Please note that these mold assemblies are only for the manual recoaters (Item #s PTR403, PTR403B, and PTR404B). Each PTR305 automatic recoater is sold with its own assembly already installed.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
RM280UVA Support Documentation
RM280UVARecoater Mold Assembly with UV LEDs, Ø280 µm Coating, 50 mm Max Recoat Length
$5,044.28
Lead Time
RM430UVA Support Documentation
RM430UVARecoater Mold Assembly with UV LEDs, Ø430 µm Coating, 50 mm Max Recoat Length
$5,044.28
Lead Time
RM600UVA Support Documentation
RM600UVARecoater Mold Assembly with UV LEDs, Ø600 µm Coating, 50 mm Max Recoat Length
$5,044.28
Lead Time
RM280UVL Support Documentation
RM280UVLRecoater Mold Assembly with UV LEDs, Ø280 µm Coating, 100 mm Max Recoat Length
$7,865.67
Today
RM430UVL Support Documentation
RM430UVLRecoater Mold Assembly with UV LEDs, Ø430 µm Coating, 100 mm Max Recoat Length
$7,865.67
Lead Time
RM600UVL Support Documentation
RM600UVLRecoater Mold Assembly with UV LEDs, Ø600 µm Coating, 100 mm Max Recoat Length
$7,865.67
Lead Time
Back to Top

Inserts for Fiber Holding Blocks - Two Top and Two Bottom Required

  • Fiber Block Inserts for Thorlabs' Fiber Recoaters
  • Two Versions Available:
    • VHH Series Inserts for PTR305 Recoater
    • VHJ and VHV Series Inserts for PTR403, PTR403B, & PTR404B Recoaters
  • Choose Two Top Inserts and Two Bottom Inserts
  • Replacement Strips for VHJT Insert Available Below

For all the recoaters sold above, the proper set of inserts needs to be selected. A total of four inserts (two top and two bottom) are required for one unit. The inserts are seated in slots in the fiber holding blocks and secured with setscrews (included with the recoater). They can easily be swapped out, allowing the recoaters to adapt quickly to clamp fibers with different coating diameters. Note that the mold assembly (available above) also needs to be changed if a different recoat diameter is desired.

We offer four types of inserts. The VHH series top inserts are fabricated from solid stainless steel, while the VHH series bottom inserts feature V-grooves and vacuum holes for accurate, repeatable positioning for recoating. The VHJT series top inserts incorporate a rubber strip that ensures sufficient friction to hold fiber under tension. The VHV series bottom inserts feature V-groove designs and vacuum holes for accurate, repeatable positioning for recoating.

Custom sizes are available; please contact Tech Support for more information.

Compatible Fiber Buffer/Coating Diameters & Recoaters
Item # Top or
Bottom
Nominal
Diameter
Min
Diameter
Max
Diameter
Compatible
Recoatersa
VHH000 Top - 90 µm 660 µm PTR305
VHH900b Top 900 µm 700 µm 1000 µm
VHH100 Bottom 100 µm 90 µm 110 µm
VHH125 Bottom 125 µm 113 µm 137 µm
VHH160 Bottom 160 µm 144 µm 176 µm
VHH250 Bottom 250 µm 225 µm 275 µm
VHH300 Bottom 300 µm 250 µm 350 µm
VHH400 Bottom 400 µm 350 µm 450 µm
VHH500 Bottom 500 µm 450 µm 550 µm
VHH600 Bottom 600 µm 540 µm 660 µm
VHH900Sb Bottom 900 µm 810 µm 990 µm
  • Only the compatible recoaters sold on this page are listed.
  • Custom mold sizes are available for Ø900 µm fiber coatings for both our automatic and manual fiber recoaters. Please contact Tech Support for more information.
Compatible Fiber Buffer/Coating Diameters & Recoaters
Item # Top or
Bottom
Nominal
Diameter
Min
Diameter
Max
Diameter
Compatible
Recoatersa
VHJT Top - 80 µm 700 µm PTR403(B)
PTR404B
VHJT900b Top 900 µm 700 µm 1000 µm
VHV100 Bottom 100 µm 66 µm 133 µm
VHV125 Bottom 125 µm 83 µm 167 µm
VHV160 Bottom 160 µm 107 µm 213 µm
VHV250 Bottom 250 µm 167 µm 333 µm
VHV300 Bottom 300 µm 200 µm 400 µm
VHV400 Bottom 400 µm 266 µm 533 µm
VHV500 Bottom 500 µm 333 µm 667 µm
VHV550 Bottom 550 µm 367 µm 733 µm
VHV600 Bottom 600 µm 400 µm 800 µm
VHV900b Bottom 900 µm 600 µm 1200 µm
  • Only the compatible recoaters sold on this page are listed.
  • Custom mold sizes are available for Ø900 µm fiber coatings for both our automatic and manual fiber recoaters. Please contact Tech Support for more information.
Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
VHH000 Support Documentation
VHH000Top Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Flat
$59.39
Today
VHH900 Support Documentation
VHH900Top Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Clearance Slot for Large-Diameter Fiber
$188.88
Today
VHH100 Support Documentation
VHH100Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø90 µm - Ø110 µm Coating
$188.88
Today
VHH125 Support Documentation
VHH125Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø113 µm - Ø137 µm Coating
$188.88
Today
VHH160 Support Documentation
VHH160Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø144 µm - Ø176 µm Coating
$188.88
Today
VHH250 Support Documentation
VHH250Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø225 µm - Ø275 µm Coating
$188.88
Today
VHH300 Support Documentation
VHH300Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø250 µm - Ø350 µm Coating
$188.88
Today
VHH400 Support Documentation
VHH400Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø350 µm - Ø450 µm Coating
$188.88
Today
VHH500 Support Documentation
VHH500Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø450 µm - Ø550 µm Coating
$188.88
Today
VHH600 Support Documentation
VHH600Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø540 µm - Ø660 µm Coating
$188.88
Today
VHH900S Support Documentation
VHH900SBottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø810 µm - Ø990 µm Coating
$188.88
Today
VHJT Support Documentation
VHJTTop Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks with Rubber Insert
$121.17
Today
VHJT900 Support Documentation
VHJT900Top Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks with Rubber Insert for Large-Diameter Fiber
$158.00
Today
VHV100 Support Documentation
VHV100Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø66 µm - Ø133 µm Coating
$230.53
Today
VHV125 Support Documentation
VHV125Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø83 µm - Ø167 µm Coating
$230.53
Today
VHV160 Support Documentation
VHV160Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø107 µm - Ø213 µm Coating
$230.53
Today
VHV250 Support Documentation
VHV250Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø167 µm - Ø333 µm Coating
$230.53
Today
VHV300 Support Documentation
VHV300Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø200 µm - Ø400 µm Coating
$230.53
Today
VHV400 Support Documentation
VHV400Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø266 µm - Ø533 µm Coating
$230.53
Today
VHV500 Support Documentation
VHV500Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø333 µm - Ø667 µm Coating
$230.53
Today
VHV550 Support Documentation
VHV550Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø367 µm - Ø733 µm Coating
$230.53
Today
VHV600 Support Documentation
VHV600Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø400 µm - Ø800 µm Coating
$230.53
Today
VHV900 Support Documentation
VHV900Bottom V-Groove Insert for Fiber Holding Blocks, Ø600 µm - Ø1200 µm Coating
$230.53
Today
Back to Top

Recoat Materials - Choose Appropriate Material

Item # Recoat Material Compatible Recoaters
Automatic Injection Manual Injection
AB950200 High Index PTR303a, PTR304a,
PTR306a, PTR307a,
PTR305, PTR308,
PTR403, PTR404,
PTR406, PTR407
PTR303Ba, PTR304Ba,
PTR306Ba, PTR307Ba,
PTR403B, PTR404B,
PTR406B, PTR407B
PC373 Low Index -
  • These previous-generation items are no longer available for purchase.
  • AB950200: High-Index Recoat Material
  • PC373: Low-Index Recoat Material

Thorlabs offers UV-curable acrylate recoat materials to be used in our PTR series fiber recoaters. We offer both high-index (Item # AB950200) and low-index (Item # PC373) material in 1 oz bottles. The high-index material can be used in all recoaters (except the PRL201), whereas the low-index material can only be used in recoaters with the manual injection pump option.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
AB950200 Support Documentation
AB950200High-Index Recoat Material, 1 oz
$315.99
Today
PC373 Support Documentation
PC373Low-Index Recoat Material, 1 oz
$460.92
Today
Back to Top

Replacement Manual Injectors and Components

Item # Component
Description
Compatible Recoaters
50 mm Recoaters 100 mm Recoaters
PTRRRM
Manual Injector PTR303Ba,
PTR306Ba, PTR307Ba,
PTR406B, PTR407B
-
PTRRRML
- PTR304Ba, PTR404B
RRMTA
Injection Tube PTR303Ba,
PTR306Ba, PTR307Ba,
PTR406B, PTR407B
-
RRMTAL - PTR304Ba, PTR404B
RRMS Syringe Barrel PTR303Ba,
PTR306Ba, PTR307Ba,
PTR406B, PTR407B
PTR304Ba, PTR404B
  • These previous-generation items are no longer available for purchase.

Click to Enlarge
The manual injector is mounted to the recoater via two 4-40 mounting screws.
  • Replacement Manual Injectors for Dispensing Recoat Material into the Mold
    • Accept PC373 and AB950200 Recoat Materials
  • Replacement Injection Tubes for Recoaters with Manual Injectors
  • Replacement Syringe Barrel for Manual Injectors

These manual injectors and injection tubes are available as replacement parts for Thorlabs' Vytran Fiber Recoaters with Manual Injectors; compatible systems are listed to the right. We also offer a replacement syringe barrel.

Each injector can be mounted to compatible fiber recoaters via two 4-40, 3/32" hex screws on the recoater housing (see photo to the right). To connect the injector to the recoater mold, tighten the connector at the end of the green plastic tubing, then loosen by a 1/4 turn to allow for rotation.

The injector is equipped with a distribution valve and two-position selection lever for directing the flow of recoat material. A knurled dispensing screw with an internal plunger acts as a syringe for the recoat material. To fill the syringe, point the lever downward (i.e., toward the recoat bottle), then rotate the knurled dispensing screw counterclockwise until it spins freely to fill the syringe (shown in the photo to the right). Then, to inject the recoat material into the mold, point the lever horizontally (i.e., facing the knurled screw) and rotate the screw clockwise until near the end of the travel range is reached. Avoid bottoming out the dispenser as this may damage the internal plunger; also take care when re-engaging the threads to avoid cross threading the dispensing screw. Several fill/inject steps may be needed until air is displaced within the system. Use lens tissue and an acetone or alcohol cleaning solution to collect any excess recoat material that flows from the mold.

Each injection tube and the RRMS syringe barrel are available as replacement parts for the manual injectors. The injection tube should be changed out if the knurl fitting breaks off the end, it leaks recoat material, or a clog forms that cannot be cleared with acetone. If the syringe no longer injects or an excessive number of air bubbles are visible in the recoat material (even after flushing the system), the syringe barrel should be replaced. A 5/16" thin spanner wrench is required for securing the syringe onto the recoat injector. Detailed installation instructions are provided in the support documentation, which can be found by clicking on the red documents icon () next to each item number.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
PTRRRM Support Documentation
PTRRRMReplacement Injector for Vytran Recoaters with 50 mm Manual Mold Assemblies and Manual Injectors
$1,457.58
Lead Time
PTRRRML Support Documentation
PTRRRMLReplacement Injector for Vytran Recoaters with 100 mm Manual Mold Assemblies and Manual Injectors
$1,457.58
Today
RRMTA Support Documentation
RRMTAReplacement Injection Tube for Vytran Recoaters with 50 mm Manual Mold Assemblies and Manual Injectors
$384.22
Today
RRMTAL Support Documentation
RRMTALReplacement Injection Tube for Vytran Recoaters with 100 mm Manual Mold Assemblies and Manual Injectors
$384.22
Today
RRMS Support Documentation
RRMSReplacement Syringe Barrel for Vytran Recoaters with Manual Injectors
$686.11
Today
Back to Top

Replacement Injection Tube for Recoaters with Manual Mold Assemblies and Automatic Injectors

Compatible Systems

  • PTR303*, PTR304*, and PTR403 Manual Fiber Recoaters, Automatic Recoat Injector
  • PTR306*, PTR307*, PTR406, and PTR407 Manual Fiber Recoaters with Proof Testers, Automatic Recoat Injector

*These previous-generation items are no longer available for purchase.

  • Replacement Injection Tube for Dispensing Recoat Material into the Mold
  • Compatible with Vytran Fiber Recoaters with Manual Mold Assemblies that Use Automatic Injectors (See List to the Right)
  • For Use with AB950200 and PC373 Recoat Materials

This replacement injection tube is compatible with Thorlabs' Vytran Fiber Recoaters that use Manual Mold Assemblies and Automatic Injection Systems (Item #s listed to the right). Though each system comes with an injection tube installed, it may need to be replaced if the knurled fitting breaks off the end, it leaks recoat material, or a clog forms that cannot be cleared with acetone.

Detailed installation instructions for the RRATA injection tube are provided in the support documentation, which can be found by clicking on the red documents icon () next to the item number.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
RRATA Support Documentation
RRATAReplacement Injection Tube for Vytran Recoaters with Manual Mold Assemblies and Automatic Injectors
$384.22
Today
Back to Top

Replacement Rubber Strip for VHJT, VHJ250, and VHJ500 Inserts

Inserting VHJR into VHJT
Click for Details

VHJR Rubber Strip shown partially inserted into the metal channel of a VHJT Fiber Holding Block Insert.
  • Replacement Rubber Strip for VHJT, VHJ250, and VHJ500 Fiber Holding Block Inserts
  • 2" Length (Trim to Size)
  • Available in a Pack of 12

This 12 Pack of Replacement Rubber Strips is directly compatible with our VHJT, VHJ250, and VHJ500 fiber holding block inserts. Although one rubber strip comes preinstalled in each insert, these can wear out over time and should be replaced when the holding block insert no longer withstands the applied proof test tension.

The rubber strip features a raised profile, and care must be taken during installation to ensure this profile sits above the metal channel of the insert. Detailed installation instructions are provided in the VHJR support documentation, which can be found by clicking on the red documents icon () next to the item number.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
VHJR Support Documentation
VHJRReplacement Rubber Strip for VHJT, VHJ250, and VHJ500 Inserts, 12 Pack
$60.38
Today
Back to Top

Replacement Handset Controller


Click to Enlarge

Screenshot of VYT300C Controller When Used with PTR403 Recoater

Compatible Systems

  • LDC401(A) Fiber Cleavers
  • LDC450B Portable Fiber Cleaver
  • PTR303(B), PTR304(B), PTR306(B), PTR307(B), PTR403(B), PTR404B, PTR406(B), and PTR407(B) Manual Mold Fiber Recoaters
  • PTR305 and PTR308 Automatic Mold Fiber Recoaters
  • PTR301 and PTR302 Fiber Proof Tester
  • Provides Full Functionality for Compatible Systems (See Compatible Systems List to the Right)
  • Intuitive GUI
  • Capacitive Touchscreen
  • Small Footprint

This handset controller is available as an alternative to the tablet controller previously included with our Vytran Large Diameter Fiber Cleavers, PTR Series Fiber Recoaters, and PTR Series Fiber Proof Testers. One handset controller is included with each new PTR series recoater system. A single handset controller can be used with multiple systems; after configuring parameters for one fiber processing unit, the controller can be disconnected and then connected to a different unit, of the same or a different type, to configure its parameters.

The handset controller must be connected via the included cable in order to use it. The controller automatically turns on when the connected system is turned on. Upon startup, the handset controller will always read parameters from the connected system; i.e., the parameters that appear on the screen will always be the parameters that have been uploaded to the connected unit. If the parameters read from the unit match the parameters of the most recently opened file on the handset controller, the screen will display the file name.

The suite of tools available through the handset controller includes a record of the total cure time of the machine (under Process Counters) that is not shown on the tablet controller. This value may be reset each time the bulbs are replaced.

The handset controller can open, save, delete, export, and import files containing parameters for compatible systems. Exporting or importing a file will require a memory device to be connected to the Program Port of the handset controller.

Instructions for using this controller can be found in the manuals for the compatible Vytran systems.

Based on your currency / country selection, your order will ship from Newton, New Jersey  
+1 Qty Docs Part Number - Universal Price Available
VYT300C Support Documentation
VYT300CCustomer Inspired! Handset Controller for LDC401(A) Cleavers, LDC450B Portable Cleaver, PTR30x(B) and PTR40x(B) Recoaters, and PTR30x Proof Testers
$982.52
Today