Parameter optimization of fusion splicing of photonic crystal fibers and conventional fibers to increase strength

•A parameter optimization method for splicing of photonic crystal fibers and conventional fibers is promoted.•The method is based on the parameter settings suggested by splicer or fiber manufacturers.•Following the method the optimal parameters for high-strength splicing is obtained.•The tensile strength of splicing joint with optimal parameter setting improves conspicuously.•The optimization method is suitable for different fibers and splicers.

A splicing parameter optimization method to increase the tensile strength of splicing joint between photonic crystal fiber (PCF) and conventional fiber is demonstrated. Based on the splicing recipes provided by splicer or fiber manufacturers, the optimal values of some major splicing parameters are obtained in sequence, and a conspicuous improvement in the mechanical strength of splicing joints between PCFs and conventional fibers is validated through experiments.