The feasibility of using silicon carbide as a magnetic recording slider material is investigated using stiction tests with different dwell times, contact start-stop (CSS) tests and drag tests at different temperatures and humidities. The stiction and frictional properties of silicon carbide sliders are compared with standard Al2O3-TiC sliders and it is concluded that their tribological behaviour is superior to that of conventional Al2O3-TiC sliders. The results of this study show that silicon carbide is a promising material for magnetic recording sliders.
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