Tribology optimization of laser zone texture using a green CW laser

The higher laser repetition rate and shorter wavelength laser required for small diameter laser texture designs tend to tilt and deform crater bumps during formation. The relationship between bump distortion and the texturing parameters is studied using a green CW laser system. A stiction model is developed using elliptical contact analysis to predict the effects of bump tilting on tribological performance. The optimization of laser texture designs for 2.5 um diameter bumps is discussed using model prediction. Experiments are carried out to verify the simulation results. Reasonable agreement between calculated and experimental data suggest that a smaller bump diameter design with proper tilting and bump density provides improved stiction performance.