PWS
 Plasma Work Station (for polyimide coatings)

The 3SAE Plasma Work Station, PWS, is a unique fiber stripper/cleaner for polyimide, carbon and gold coated fibers. The PWS creates an extremely stabilized plasma in partial vacuum which is surrounding the fiber with uniform heat and controlled ionic conditions. Sophisticated software and instrument grade measurement technology monitor the patented 3-phase plasma/arc (Ring of Fire®) to maintain balance and consistency over a broad dynamic range from less than 100 °C to well over 3000 °C. The PWS uses ion etching technology to remove polyimide, carbon and gold plating safely and cleanly from the fiber. The stripped region has tapered interfaces with no charring and the resulting tensile strength is many times higher than conventional stripping methods.