The influence of operating and design parameters on the magnetic tape/guide friction coefficient

Abstract

The classical belt drive equation is modified to obtain a more accurate model, which allows the investigation of the effect of various parameters such as sliding speed, tape tension, surface roughness, material properties and guide and tape geometry on the magnetic tape/guide friction coefficient. The friction coefficient between a guide and a tape sample is also determined from experimental measurements as a function of these various parameters. Theoretical predictions and experimental results are compared.

Enhancing tribological performance of the magnetic tape/guide interface by laser surface texturing

“…While in a real application the tape is sliding over a stationary guide, it is more convenient for the purpose of friction measurement to use a stationary tape sample in combination with a rotating guide [10]. This set-up simulates a moving tape on a stationary guide.…”

“…In a recent study [10], it was observed that for a tape tension of 1 N, a tape speed of at least 8 m/s was needed to achieve full fluid lubrication and hence, a low friction coefficient. This paper explores the possibility of creating an efficient low speed air bearing between a magnetic tape and a cylindrical guide, thereby expanding the speed range of low friction.…”

A Model for Magnetic Tape/Guide Friction Reduction by Laser Surface Texturing

“…The tribological performance of ME tape, however, is problematic compared to MP tape, especially Fig. 13 Minimum spacing c versus tape speed for a dimensionless tape tension of T/(p a R) = 0.1 at low-tape speeds, where surface contact occurs between the tape and the guide surface [6,20,21]. Dimpled guide surfaces create a higher air bearing pressure compared to smooth guides and thus, increase the flying height at low speeds.…”

“…We have used the experimental set-up and procedure outlined in [6] and [7] to measure the friction coefficient between a tape and a guide at tape speeds between 4 and 7 m/s, to make sure the tape operates under full fluid lubrication conditions. Figure 12 shows a comparison between the theoretical predictions and experimental results for a textured guide with a radius R of 15 mm, dimple density S p = 0.15, and dimple aspect ratio e = 0.02.…”

“…This would eliminate the need for an external compressor, while still benefiting from the low friction of an air bearing. In studying the friction of the tape/guide interface, it was observed [6] that the tape speed at which the transition from boundary lubrication to hydrodynamic lubrication occurs, is strongly influenced by the surface roughness of the guides. In [7] laser surface textured guides were used and it was found that laser texturing reduces the friction coefficient between tape and guide significantly, especially in the low tape speed range.…”