AFL Honored with 2021 Lightwave Innovations Reviews

Spartanburg, SC – AFL, an international manufacturer of fiber optic cable, accessories and equipment, announced today that two products were recognized among the best by the 2021 Lightwave innovation Reviews. The Fujikura 90R mass fusion splicer and the new Apex™ splice closure received a 4.5 and 4.0 ranking, respectively. The third-party judging panel included experts from a wide variety of service providers, technology developers, industry analysis firms and the media. Entries were reviewed based on criteria including originality, innovation, positive impact on the customer, how well the product addresses a new or existing requirement, novelty of approach and cost-effectiveness.
Ideal for mass fusion splicing, the Fujikura 90R features ergonomic improvements and automation designed to maximize productivity in the field. With an automated splice start, tube heater, wind protector and blade rotations, the 90R gives operators additional time for other fiber preparation steps. The fusion splicer is provided with a spare 12-fiber V-groove and electrode assembly which can be quickly exchanged in the field. Additional features include cleaver tracking and upkeep with wireless communication; 200 µm and 250 µm SpiderWeb Ribbon® universal ribbon prep accessories, a 5.0” touchscreen and multi-function transit case.
 
Click here to view the Fujikura 90R video.
 
Launched in December 2020, the Apex splice closure line is designed to ease usability, decrease installation time, improve network reliability and increase the density of fiber splices, especially when coupled with AFL’s industry-leading high-density MicroCore® cable and Wrapping Tube Cable (WTC) with SpiderWeb Ribbon® (SWR®). The closure is smaller in size yet provides for higher densities making it easier to maximize available space when space is a premium. With a wedge-based sealing system, a cable can be installed into the closure and sealed in seconds, reducing overall installation time. The universal splice holder module eliminates the need to stock different splice trays or splice holders for different jobs.
 
Click here to view the most recent Apex video.
 
AFL’s FlowScout also received a 4.0 rating. More information on this product is coming soon.
 
“On behalf of the Lightwave Innovation Reviews, I would like to congratulate AFL on their high scoring honoree status,” said Lightwave Associate Publisher and Editorial Director, Stephen Hardy. “This competitive program allows Lightwave to celebrate and recognize the most innovative products impacting the optical communications community this year.”
 
To learn more about AFL, its products and services, visit www.AFLglobal.com. Or view all AFL content at learn.aflglobal.com.
 
About Lightwave
Through our integrated media portfolio, Lightwave delivers content focused on fiber optics and optoelectronics, the technologies that enable the growth, integration and improved performance of voice, data and video communications networks and services. Our experienced editorial team provides trusted technology, application and market insights to corporate executives, department heads, project managers, network engineers and technical managers at equipment suppliers, service providers and major end-user organizations. Our unique ability to inform our audience’s business-critical decisions is based in our 35+ year relationship with the entire optical community—technology vendors, communications carriers and major enterprises—and our recognition of the interplay among its members.

About AFL
Founded in 1984, AFL is an international manufacturer providing end-to-end solutions to the energy, service provider, enterprise, hyperscale and industrial markets. The company’s products are in use in over 130 countries and include fiber optic cable and hardware, transmission and substation accessories, outside plant equipment, connectivity, test and inspection equipment, fusion splicers and training. AFL also offers a wide variety of services supporting data center, enterprise, wireless and outside plant applications.

Headquartered in Spartanburg, SC, AFL has operations in the U.S., Mexico, Canada, Europe, Asia and Australia, and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fujikura Ltd. of Japan. For more information, visit www.AFLglobal.com. Follow us on LinkedInXFacebook, and read our blog.

Contacts
Lucas Mays
Associate Product Manager, AFL
864.433.5423
Lucas.Mays@AFLglobal.com

Will Miller
Global Product Manager, AFL
864.486.7335
William.Miller@AFLglobal.com

Corie Culp
Public Relations Manager, AFL
864.433.5409
Corie.Culp@AFLglobal.com