The function of the polisher is to provide an accurately shaped flat or spherical medium for applying the polishing material. Polishers are usually of pitch, though felt or cloth is still used for some of the commoner work. Various wax mixtures are also used.
Polishing disc is used for polishing a tip end surface of an optical fiber into a spherical shape in which the optical fiber is supported by a ferrule. It consists of a flat base plate comprised of an elastic material and abrasive-free plastic film adhered to the flat base plate. The plastic film has a rough surface formed by a rugged pattern.