IEC 61300-2-24:2010

Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components - Basic test and measurement procedures - Part 2-24: Tests - Screen testing of ceramic alignment split sleeve by stress application

IEC 61300-2-24:2010 identifies weaknesses in a ceramic alignment split sleeve which could lead to early failure of the component. This second edition constitutes a technical revision. Specific technical changes involve the addition of a dimension example of the reference gauge and the plate for the ceramic sleeve and a commonly used ceramic alignment sleeve for the 1,25 mm ceramic sleeve.

Dispositifs d'interconnexion et composants passifs à fibres optiques - Méthodes fondamentales d'essais et de mesures - Partie 2-24: Essais - Essai de sélection du manchon d'alignement fendu en céramique par l'application de contrainte

La CEI 61300-2-24:2010 est d'identifier, dans un manchon d'alignement fendu en céramique, les faiblesses susceptibles d'entraîner une défaillance précoce du composant. Cette seconde édition constitue une révision technique. Les modifications techniques spécifiques concernent l'ajout d'un exemple de dimension du calibre de référence et de la pastille pour manchon en céramique, ainsi qu'un manchon d'alignement en céramique couramment utilisé comme manchon en céramique de 1,25 mm.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 20-Apr-2010
• ICS: 33.180.20 - Fibre optic interconnecting devices
• Technical Committee: SC 86B - Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components
• Drafting Committee: WG 4 - TC 86/SC 86B/WG 4
• Current Stage: PPUB - Publication issued
• Start Date: 21-Apr-2010
• Completion Date: 30-Apr-2010

Relations

• Revises: IEC 61300-2-24:1999 - Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components - Basic tests and measurement procedures - Part 2-24: Tests - Screen testing of ceramic alignment split sleeve by stress application
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023

Overview

IEC 61300-2-24:2010 is part of the IEC 61300 series for fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components. This second edition defines a screen testing method for ceramic alignment split sleeves (commonly zirconia) by applying a proof stress to reveal manufacturing weaknesses that could cause early failure. The standard includes apparatus descriptions, a step-by-step test procedure, example dimensions for reference gauges and plates, and an informative annex on static fatigue and reliability prediction.

Key Topics and Requirements

• Purpose: Identify weak ceramic alignment split sleeves by subjecting them to a stress higher than normal service conditions so marginal parts are screened out.
• Apparatus: A ceramic reference gauge with sleeve‑holding, tapered and stress‑applying sections, and two plates (A and B) with central clearance holes. The standard provides dimension examples for 1.25 mm and 2.5 mm sleeve types.
• Test conditions:
  • Environmental temperature: 23 °C ± 2 °C.
  • Pre-test handling: moisten inside surface of sleeve with distilled water (use suitable tools, avoid direct handling).
  • Loading sequence: move sleeve onto the stress-applying section using plates; hold the stressed state for 3 s, then release.
  • Acceptance: sleeves that do not crack or break during the cycle are acceptable.
• Details to specify: exact diameters and lengths of reference-gauge sections, plate center‑hole diameter, and any deviations from the procedure.
• Annex A - Static fatigue (informative): discusses Weibull statistics, slow-crack growth in ceramics, prediction of failure probability over time under working stress, and proof-test design considerations for zirconia sleeves.

Applications and Who Uses It

• Quality control and incoming inspection for fibre‑optic connector components (especially adapter and plug/adaptor/plug assemblies).
• Manufacturers of ceramic alignment split sleeves and optical connectors aiming to screen out weak parts and improve reliability.
• Test laboratories and compliance teams performing standardized mechanical screening and proof testing.
• Telecom, datacom and datacenter OEMs specifying reliable optical connectors for high-availability systems.

Practical benefits include improved connector reliability, reduced field failures from ceramic sleeve fracture, and defensible test records when specifying or purchasing alignment sleeves.

Related Standards

• IEC 61300 series - Basic test and measurement procedures for fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components (other parts cover different mechanical, optical and environmental tests).
• When specifying testing regimes, combine this screen test with relevant environmental and connector-performance parts of IEC 61300.

Keywords: IEC 61300-2-24, ceramic alignment split sleeve, screen testing, proof stress, zirconia sleeve, static fatigue, fibre optic interconnecting devices, connector reliability.

Standards Content (Sample)

IEC 61300-2-24 ®
Edition 2.0 2010-04
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Basic test and
measurement procedures –
Part 2-24: Tests – Screen testing of ceramic alignment split sleeve by stress
application
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form
or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from
either IEC or IEC's member National Committee in the country of the requester.
If you have any questions about IEC copyright or have an enquiry about obtaining additional rights to this publication,
please contact the address below or your local IEC member National Committee for further information.

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About the IEC
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is the leading global organization that prepares and publishes
International Standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies.

About IEC publications
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IEC 61300-2-24 ®
Edition 2.0 2010-04
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Basic test and
measurement procedures –
Part 2-24: Tests – Screen testing of ceramic alignment split sleeve by stress
application
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
PRICE CODE
P
ICS 33.180.20 ISBN 978-2-88910-492-5
– 2 – 61300-2-24 © IEC:2010(E)
CONTENTS
FOREWORD.3
1 Scope.5
2 General description .5
3 Apparatus.5
4 Procedure .7
5 Details to be specified .7
Annex A (informative) Static fatigue for zirconia alignment sleeve.8
Bibliography.15

Figure 1 – Apparatus used for screen testing of a ceramic alignment sleeve.6
Figure A.1 – Model of time-varying proof stress for a zirconia sleeve .10
Figure A.2 – Calculated contour lines of gauge retention force and working stress
along with inner and outer diameter of a zirconia sleeve .11
Figure A.3 – Calculated general relationship between σ /σ and t , satisfying 0,1 FIT

p a e
for 20 years use.12
Figure A.4 – Calculated failure probability of screened zirconia sleeves along with
working time .12
Figure A.5 – Measured and calculated strength distribution of 2,5 mm zirconia sleeves
(comparison between sleeves, extended proof tested or not) .13
Figure A.6 – Measured strength distribution of 1,25 mm zirconia sleeves (comparison
between sleeves, extended proof tested or not) .14

Table 1 – Dimension example of the reference gauge and the plate for the ceramic
sleeve.6
Table 2 – Dimension example of a commonly used ceramic alignment sleeve.7
Table A.1 – Measured static fatigue parameters for zirconia sleeves .11

61300-2-24 © IEC:2010(E) – 3 –
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
______________
FIBRE OPTIC INTERCONNECTING
DEVICES AND PASSIVE COMPONENTS –
BASIC TEST AND MEASUREMENT PROCEDURES –

Part 2-24: Tests –
Screen testing of ceramic alignment
split sleeve by stress application

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
this end and in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications,
Technical Reports, Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC
Publication(s)”). Their preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested
in the subject dealt with may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-
governmental organizations liaising with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely
with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence
between any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in
the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of conformity. IEC is not responsible for any
services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 61300-2-24 has been prepared by subcommittee 86B: Fibre optic
interconnecting devices and passive components, of IEC technical committee 86: Fibre optics.
This second edition replaces the first edition published in 1999. This second edition
constitutes a technical revision. Specific technical changes involve the addition of a
dimension example of the reference gauge and the plate for the ceramic sleeve and a
commonly used ceramic alignment sleeve for the 1,25 mm ceramic sleeve.

– 4 – 61300-2-24 © IEC:2010(E)
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
86B/2967/FDIS 86B/3014/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
A list of all parts of IEC 61300 series, published under the general title, Fibre optic
interconnecting and passive components – Basic test and measurement procedures, can be
found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until
the stability date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data
related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed;
• withdrawn;
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
A bilingual version of this publication may be issued at a later date.

IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct
understanding of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a
colour printer.
61300-2-24 © IEC:2010(E) – 5 –
FIBRE OPTIC INTERCONNECTING
DEVICES AND PASSIVE COMPONENTS –
BASIC TEST AND MEASUREMENT PROCEDURES –

Part 2-24: Tests –
Screen testing of ceramic alignment
split sleeve by stress application

1 Scope
The purpose of this part of IEC 61300 is to identify weaknesses in a ceramic alignment split
sleeve which could lead to early failure of the component.
2 General description
Ceramic alignment sleeves are important components often used in the adaptor of plug-
adaptor-plug optical connector sets. By using the method described, the component is
subjected to a proof stress greater than would be experienced under normal service
conditions. This enables weak products to be screened out.
3 Apparatus
The apparatus and arrangement necessary to perform this screening procedure are shown in
Figure 1. The material needed consists of the following:
a) a reference gauge made of ceramic with a sleeve-holding section, a tapered section and a
stress-applying section. The diameter of each section is dependent on the dimensions of
the product being screened. The length of the sleeve-holding section and the stress-
applying section should be greater than the component being tested;
b) plates A and B, each having a clearance hole in the centre to allow the plate to move a
sample of a ceramic alignment split sleeve on the reference gauge.

– 6 – 61300-2-24 © IEC:2010(E)
∅ E
∅ D
Tapered section
Stress applying section
Sleeve holding section
A
B C
Fixed section
IEC  1487/99
Figure 1a – Reference gauge
H
∅ F
∅ G
IEC  1488/99
Figure 1b – Plate A and plate B

Figure 1 – Apparatus used for screen testing of a ceramic alignment sleeve
Table 1 shows the dimension of the reference gauge and the plate for the ceramic split sleeve.
A dimension of the stress-applying section diameter (E) is shown for a commonly used
ceramic alignment sleeve in Table 2.
Table 1 – Dimension example of the reference gauge and the plate for
the ceramic sleeve
Reference For 1,25 mm gauge For 2,5 mm gauge Notes
Dimension  Dimension
mm mm
NOTE 2
A 9 14
B 5  5
NOTE 2
C 9 14
NOTE 1
D – –
E   2,515
1,259 0 ± 0,000 5
F – – NOTE 3
G 20 20
H 2 2
NOTE 1 This diameter should be less than the inner diameter of the split sleeve.
NOTE 2 Surface finish in this area Ra = 0,2 μm.

NOTE 3 Dimension F should be greater than dimension E, and less than sleeve ØD.

61300-2-24 © IEC:2010(E) – 7 –
Table 2 – Dimension e
...

IEC 61300-2-24 ®
Edition 2.0 2010-04
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Basic test and
measurement procedures –
Part 2-24: Tests – Screen testing of ceramic alignment split sleeve by stress
application
Dispositifs d'interconnexion et composants passifs à fibres optiques –
Méthodes fondamentales d'essais et de mesures –
Partie 2-24: Essais – Essai de sélection du manchon d'alignement fendu en
céramique par l'application de contrainte

All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by
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The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is the leading global organization that prepares and publishes
International Standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies.

About IEC publications
The technical content of IEC publications is kept under constant review by the IEC. Please make sure that you have the
latest edition, a corrigenda or an amendment might have been published.
 Catalogue of IEC publications: www.iec.ch/searchpub
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IEC 61300-2-24 ®
Edition 2.0 2010-04
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Fibre optic interconnecting devices and passive components – Basic test and
measurement procedures –
Part 2-24: Tests – Screen testing of ceramic alignment split sleeve by stress
application
Dispositifs d'interconnexion et composants passifs à fibres optiques –
Méthodes fondamentales d'essais et de mesures –
Partie 2-24: Essais – Essai de sélection du manchon d'alignement fendu en
céramique par l'application de contrainte

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
PRICE CODE
INTERNATIONALE
CODE PRIX P
ICS 33.180.20 ISBN 978-2-88912-460-2

– 2 – 61300-2-24 © IEC:2010
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 3
1 Scope . 5
2 General description . 5
3 Apparatus . 5
4 Procedure . 7
5 Details to be specified . 7
Annex A (informative) Static fatigue for zirconia alignment sleeve . 8
Bibliography . 15

Figure 1 – Apparatus used for screen testing of a ceramic alignment sleeve . 6
Figure A.1 – Model of time-varying proof stress for a zirconia sleeve . 10
Figure A.2 – Calculated contour lines of gauge retention force and working stress
along with inner and outer diameter of a zirconia sleeve . 11
Figure A.3 – Calculated general relationship between s /s and t , satisfying 0,1 FIT
p a e
for 20 years use . 12
Figure A.4 – Calculated failure probability of screened zirconia sleeves along with
working time . 12
Figure A.5 – Measured and calculated strength distribution of 2,5 mm zirconia sleeves
(comparison between sleeves, extended proof tested or not) . 13
Figure A.6 – Measured strength distribution of 1,25 mm zirconia sleeves (comparison
between sleeves, extended proof tested or not) . 14

Table 1 – Dimension example of the reference gauge and the plate for the ceramic
sleeve . 6
Table 2 – Dimension example of a commonly used ceramic alignment sleeve . 7
Table A.1 – Measured static fatigue parameters for zirconia sleeves . 11

61300-2-24 © IEC:2010 – 3 –
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
______________
FIBRE OPTIC INTERCONNECTING
DEVICES AND PASSIVE COMPONENTS –
BASIC TEST AND MEASUREMENT PROCEDURES –

Part 2-24: Tests –
Screen testing of ceramic alignment
split sleeve by stress application

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
this end and in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications,
Technical Reports, Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC
Publication(s)”). Their preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested
in the subject dealt with may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-
governmental organizations liaising with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely
with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence
between any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in
the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of conformity. IEC is not responsible for any
services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 61300-2-24 has been prepared by subcommittee 86B: Fibre optic
interconnecting devices and passive components, of IEC technical committee 86: Fibre optics.
This second edition replaces the first edition published in 1999. This second edition
constitutes a technical revision. Specific technical changes involve the addition of a
dimension example of the reference gauge and the plate for the ceramic sleeve and a
commonly used ceramic alignment sleeve for the 1,25 mm ceramic sleeve.
This bilingual version, published in 2011-04, corresponds to the English version.

– 4 – 61300-2-24 © IEC:2010
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
86B/2967/FDIS 86B/3014/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
A list of all parts of IEC 61300 series, published under the general title, Fibre optic
interconnecting and passive components – Basic test and measurement procedures, can be
found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until
the stability date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data
related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct
understanding of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a
colour printer.
61300-2-24 © IEC:2010 – 5 –
FIBRE OPTIC INTERCONNECTING
DEVICES AND PASSIVE COMPONENTS –
BASIC TEST AND MEASUREMENT PROCEDURES –

Part 2-24: Tests –
Screen testing of ceramic alignment
split sleeve by stress application

1 Scope
The purpose of this part of IEC 61300 is to identify weaknesses in a ceramic alignment split
sleeve which could lead to early failure of the component.
2 General description
Ceramic alignment sleeves are important components often used in the adaptor of plug-
adaptor-plug optical connector sets. By using the method described, the component is
subjected to a proof stress greater than would be experienced under normal service
conditions. This enables weak products to be screened out.
3 Apparatus
The apparatus and arrangement necessary to perform this screening procedure are shown in
Figure 1. The material needed consists of the following:
a) a reference gauge made of ceramic with a sleeve-holding section, a tapered section and a
stress-applying section. The diameter of each section is dependent on the dimensions of
the product being screened. The length of the sleeve-holding section and the stress-
applying section should be greater than the component being tested;
b) plates A and B, each having a clearance hole in the centre to allow the plate to move a
sample of a ceramic alignment split sleeve on the reference gauge.

– 6 – 61300-2-24 © IEC:2010
Figure 1 – Apparatus used for screen testing of a ceramic alignment sleeve
Table 1 shows the dimension of the reference gauge and the plate for the ceramic split sleeve.
A dimension of the stress-applying section diameter (E) is shown for a commonly used
ceramic alignment sleeve in Table 2.
Table 1 – Dimension example of the reference gauge and the plate for
the ceramic sleeve
Reference For 1,25 mm gauge For 2,5 mm gauge Notes
Dimension  Dimension
mm mm
NOTE 2
A 9 14
B 5 5
NOTE 2
C 9 14
NOTE 1
D – –
E 1,259 0 ± 0,000 5 2,515
F – – NOTE 3
G 20 20
H 2 2
NOTE 1 This diameter should be less than the inner diameter of the split sleeve.
NOTE 2 Surface finish in this area Ra = 0,2 mm.

NOTE 3 Dimension F should be greater than dimension E, and less than sleeve ØD.

61300-2-24 © IEC:2010 – 7 –
Table 2 – Dimension example of a commonly used ceramic
alignment sleeve
Items For 1,25 mm For 2,5 mm
Dimension Dimension
mm mm
Length 6,8 10,1
Outer diameter 1,62  3,2
Inner diameter (ref.) 1,246  2,49
Split section width 6,8 10,1
4 Procedure
This test should be carried out under a 23 °C ± 2 °C environmental temperature condition.
The procedure is as follows.
a) Insert plate A into the reference gauge and set it at the fixed end of the reference gauge.
b) Moisten the inside surface of a ceramic split sleeve sample with distilled water (for
example using a cotton bud). Only touch the sleeve with suitable tools.
c) The sample sleeve is inserted onto the sleeve-holding part and set just in front of the
tapered part of the reference gauge.
d) Insert plate B into the left-hand side of the sample sleeve and move the sample sleeve
onto the stress-applying part until the sample sleeve touches plate A (within approximately
1 s).
e) The sample sleeve should be held for 3 s under the stressed state.
f) After 3 s, stress applied to the sample sleeve is removed by moving plate A to the left-
hand side (within approximately 1 s).
g) In the course of the procedure from d) to f), samples without damage (breakage or crack)
should be selected as acceptable sleeves.
5 Details to be specified
The following details shall be specified depending on the sample sleeve size in the detail
specification:
- diameter of sleeve-holding part of reference gauge (ØD);
- diameter of stress-applying part of reference gauge (ØE);
- length of sleeve-holding part (A) and stress-applying part (C);
- diameter of the center hole of plates A and B (ØF);
- deviations from test procedure.

– 8 – 61300-2-24 © IEC:2010
Annex A
(informative)
Static fatigue for zirconia alignment sleeve

A.1 Prediction of failure probability by static fatigue
This annex applies primarily to 2,5 mm zirconia alignment sleeves supported by references [1]
to [5] . For 1,25 mm zirconia sleeves, a comprehensive analysis is referenced [6] and the
strength distribution is shown in Figure A.6. Micro-cracks essentially exist on the surface or
inside of ceramics. Therefore, fracture due to static fatigue occurs in ceramics under lower
stress than the characteristic strength of the materials because of crack propagation in
ceramic materials [1] [2].
Assurance of reliable optical fibre connections requires the prediction of failure probability of
the zirconia sleeves under working stress needed to align the ferrules.
Assuming aligned ferrules of optical connectors, the zirconia sleeves are allowed to stand
under a constant stress, as working stress s . Based on the theories of Weibull statistics and
a
slow crack growth for brittle materials, cumulative failure probability F of the zirconia sleeves
suffering from working stress is given by the following equation:
1 m
N
ln = ln s t + lng (A.1)
a a
1- F N -1
with
V
e
g º
m / (N-2)
m
s b
b º
2 (N -2)
(N - 2) AY K
IC
where
t  is the working time during which the working stress s is applied;
a a
m, V and s are the Weibull modulus, effective volume, and normalization constant to
e 0
express the failure probability by the Weibull statistics theory, respectively;
Y is the geometry constant;
K is the critical stress intensity factor;
IC
A and N are crack propagation constants of the brittle materials [2].

—————————
Figures in square brackets refer to the Bibliography.

61300-2-24 © IEC:2010 – 9 –
These crack propagation constants depend on environmental conditions such as temperature,
humidity, atmosphere, and material characteristics. Therefore, if m, N and g values are
estimated, the static fatigue life time of sleeves is predicted. The N value is estimated by the
dynamic fatigue test that measures the strength of a sleeve corresponding variable of the
proportional increased stress coefficient s' in MPa/s. On the other hand, the relationship
between F, strength s of sleeves and s' is given by executing the sleeve destructive test.
f
The slope m and the intercept lns are estimated from equation (A.2).
(N +1) /(N -1)
s
f
ln = m ln + ln g (A.2)
1/(N -2)
1- F
{(N +1)s ¢}
A.2 Reliability improvement by proof test
In order to improve the reliability of the zirconia sleeve against fracture due to static fatigue, a
proof test that initially eliminates weak zirconia sleeves by applying a greater stress (called
proof stress) than the working stress is effective. Fatigue also occurs under the proof stress.
However, the proof test conditions should be decided in order to take into consideration
fatigue during the proof test [3] [4].
s applied to the zirconia changes
When the proof test is performed, the proof stress
p
trapezoidally along with time as shown in Figure A.1. In this figure, stress change is defined
as follows:
: s (t) = s't
0 < t £ t
l
t < t £ t +t : s (t) = s
l l p p
t +t < t £ t +t +t : s (t) = s -s't
l p l p u p
where
s´ = s / t = s / t
p l p u
The cumulative failure probability F after proof testing is given by equation (A.3):
r
m /(N -2)
é p ù
(N - 2)/(N - 2)
ì ü
1 p
(N -2) (N -2) / m
m
N p p
ê ú
( )
ln = ln s t + z d - z d + ln g (A.3)
í ý
a a
1- F ê ú
r
î þ
ë û
with
1/(N -2)
p
N
æ p ö
z º s t
ç ÷
p e
è ø
m
æ ö
1/(N -2)
g
p ç b ÷
d º º
ç ÷
1/(N -2)
g p
ç ÷
b
p
è ø
– 10 – 61300-2-24 © IEC:2010
V
e
g º
p
m /(N -2)
m p
s b
p
t + t
u l
t º t +
e p
N + 1
p
where N and b are N and b value under the proof test environment, respectively.
p p
Proof
t t t
l p u
stress
s
p
0 Test time
IEC  1489/99
Figure A.1 – Model of time-varying proof stress for a zirconia sleeve
A.3 Method of proof test
A.3.1 Stress design for zirconia alignment sleeve
Figure A.2 shows calculated contour lines of the gauge retention force f and working stress
r
s along with inner and outer diameters of a zirconia sleeve. Modelling the zirconia sleeve as
a
a curved beam, the gripping force and the working stress are calculated analytically. In
calculation, length, maximum static frictional coefficient and Young's modulus of the zirconia
sleeve are 11,4 mm, 0,1 and 196 GPa, respectively. Considering operational difficulty and a
low yield rate in proof testing, proof stress shall be kept as small as possible. For example, as
the maximum gauge retention force and the maximum working stress satisfies the above-
mentioned condition and the safety coefficient of around 10 against zirconia characteristic
strength of 1 200 MPa respectively, the outer diameter of zirconia sleeve is designed with a
value of 3,2 mm. From Figure A.2, the maximum working stress with a 3,2 mm outer diameter
becomes 130 MPa (gauge retention force is 3,9 N, inner diameter is 2,490 mm).

61300-2-24 © IEC:2010 – 11 –
Dimensions in millimetres
2,500
65 MPa
2,0 N
2,495
2,490
130 MPa
2,485
Gauge retention force
3,9 N Working stress
2,480
3,0 3,1 3,2 3,3 3,4
Outer diameter of sleeve
IEC  1490/99
Figure A.2 – Calculated contour lines of gauge retention force and working stress along
with inner and outer diameter of a zirconia sleeve
A.3.2 Conditions for proof test
Ordinarily, components for switchboard and transmission equipment require very low failure
probability (for example under 0,1 FIT during 20 years). In order to decide proof test
conditions that make a zirconia sleeve satisfy required failure probability, parameters m, N,
N , g and g in equation (A.3) shall be estimated. Table A.1 shows these estimated
p p
parameters using 3 mol % Y O -ZrO sleeves. According to equation (A.3), by using
2 3 2
parameters in Table A.1, a general relationship between s /s and t , satisfying 0,1 FIT
p a e
during 20 years use, is shown in Figure A.3.
Table A.1 – Measured static fatigue parameters for zirconia sleeves
Parameters 25 °C in water 85 °C in water
m 5,5 to 7,1 5,5 to 6,3
N or N 28 to 40 22 to 35
p
–43,3 to –53,9 –40,7 to –47,8
In g or In g
p
Inner diameter of sleeve
– 12 – 61300-2-24 © IEC:2010
4,0
3,5
3,0
2,5
2,0
T
e
Test time t (arbitrary unit)
e
IEC  1491/99
Figure A.3 – Calculated general relationship between s /s and t ,
p a e
satisfying 0,1 FIT for 20 years use
Working and proof test environments are assumed as 85 °C in water and 25 °C in water
respectively. From Figure A.3, “T ” is the time for s /s » 2,7, which is almost saturated against t .
e p a e
Failure probability of zirconia sleeves, which are screened on the condition s /s » 2,7, t =
p a e
T , and 0,1 FIT reference along with working time t are shown in Figure A.4. It is clear that
e a
the proof test ensures the failure probability under 0,1 FIT during 20 years of use.

-1
-2
-3
-4
0,1 FIT
-5
-6
-7
-8
s / s » 3
p a
t = T
-9 e e
-10
1 10 100
0,1
Working time t in years
a
IEC  1492/99
Figure A.4 – Calculated failure probability of screened zirconia
sleeves along with working time
Failure probability, log F
Stress  ratio  s /s
p a
20 years
61300-2-24 © IEC:2010 – 13 –
A.3.3 Experimental verification of proof test
Applying the above-mentioned theory for the proof test to real zirconia sleeves, improvement
of reliability is experimentally verified. The assumed working time is around 20 years,
therefore the verification in a practical environment entails considerable difficulties.
Consequently, by performing two kinds of comparison between theory and experiment, validity
of the proof test is confirmed.
A.3.4 Strength distribution after proof test
Effective elimination of weak sleeves by proof test is experimentally verified. Destroying
screened sleeves that just passed the proof test, by a proportional increased stress s', with a
cumulative failure probability F of the screened sleeves is given by equation (A.4):
r
m /(n -2)
é p ù
N +1
ì p ü
s
ê ú
1 ï N -2 ï
f p m
ln = ln + z - z + lng (A.4)
êí ý ú
p
¢
1- F s (N +1)
r p
ï ï
ê ú
î þ
ë û
Figure A.5 shows measured strength distribution of 2,5 mm zirconia sleeves and calculated
results using equation (A.4). To emphasize the efficiency of the proof test, a 1 000 MPa proof
stress s and 10 s of testing time t , t and t were adopted as the proof test conditions. The
p p u l
calculation was carried out using the values of m = 7,1, N = 34 and ln g = –53,9. The
p p
constants m, N and ln g were estimated by previously mentioned dynamic fatigue test and
p p
destructive test conditions. According to the strength distribution of Figure A.5, it is clear that
the reliability of zirconia sleeves is considerably improved by proof testing which eliminates
initially weak sleeves. The measured and calculated distributions agree well, therefore, the
validity of the theory is proved. Figure A.6 shows measured strength distribution of 1,25 mm
zirconia sleeves using specified proof test conditions shown in Table A.1.

Screened sleeve
Original sleeve
Calculated
}
-1
-2
-3
-4
-5
-6
6,0 6,4 6,8 7,2 7,6 8,0
Strength ln s (MPa)
f
IEC  1493/99
Figure A.5 – Measured and calculated strength distribution of 2,5 mm zirconia sleeves
(comparison between sleeves, extended proof tested or not)
Cumulative failure probability lnln (1/1-F)

– 14 – 61300-2-24 © IEC:2010
Original sleeve
Screened sleeve
Strength ln s (MPa)
f
IEC  607/10
Figure A.6 – Measured strength distribution of 1,25 mm zirconia sleeves
(comparison between sleeves, extended proof tested or not)
A.4 Conclusion
The gauge retention force of the zirconia sleeve has been prescribed as between 2,0 N
and 3,9 N bearing in mind its practical application.
Concerning fracture prevention of zirconia ceramics due to static fatigue, it has been clarified
that the proof test, which initially eliminates weak sleeves by applying a greater stress than
the working stress, assures sufficient strength reliability under high temperature and humidity
environments (under 0,1 FIT during 20 years use). The conditions for proof testing have been
derived theoretically and the validity of the test has been confirmed experimentally. The
adequate proof stress is about three times larger than the actual stress [5], [6].
Cumulative failure probability lnln (1/1-F)

61300-2-24 © IEC:2010 – 15 –
Bibliography
[1] ABE, H., KAWAI, M., KANNO, T. and SUZUKI, K., Engineering ceramics, Gihodo Pub.
Co., p.167-188, 1984 (in Japanese).
[2] EVANS, A.G. and WIEDERHORN, S.M., Crack propagation and failure prediction in
silicon nitride at elevated temperatures, J. Mater. Sci., 9, p.27
...