Fiber optic penetrator

Claim 1

A penetrator assembly, particularly for conveyance of an optical fiber in a fiber optic signaling arrangement across a large pressure differential, comprising: a bulkhead member across which said pressure differential is extant between relatively high and relatively low pressure first and second surfaces thereof, respectively; a first bore through said bulkhead of at least sufficient diameter to permit passage of a selected optic fiber axially therethrough; first and second counterbores coaxial with said first bore but of larger diameter, each of said counterbores extending to a depth which is less than half of the thickness of said bulkhead member in the axial dimension of said bore and counterbores; first and second pressure plugs installed in said first and second counterbores, respectively, said pressure plugs each including an optic fiber clearance axial bore coaxial with said first bore and said counterbores; first and second jewel orifice members mounted within said first and second pressure plugs, respectively, said jewel orifice members each having a bore coaxial with said pressure plug clearance bores, a through passage being established within said penetrator assembly such that said optical fiber may be conveyed without interruption through said passage; said jewel member bores providing a closer tolerance fit against said optical fiber than provided in any other part; and an adhesive sealant applied at least to the fit tolerance surface between said jewel orifice members and said optical fiber to provide a fluid-tight bond.