Precision machining of rigid disk head sliders

In order to manufacture sliders for rigid disk drive recording heads, some of the most sophisticated precision machining technologies available today have been developed. These technologies include grinding operations for both slicing and profiling of sliders, as well as lapping or nanogrinding for the ultraprecision machining of the air bearing surfaces. Due to a continuous decrease in slider size as well as flying height, a further reduction of the defects is required. The paper provides an overview of slider machining requirements, discusses the cutting process parameters, and presents the nanogrinding process, which is especially well suited for air bearing surface (ABS) machining.