Effect of disk acceleration on the generation of acoustic emission signal at the head–disk interface

Abstract

Generation of acoustic emission (AE) signal from head–disk interaction as a function of acceleration of the disk was studied using lubricated and unlubricated, mechanically textured and laser textured disks, with positive and negative pressure tripad sliders. Root mean square (rms) AE signal voltage (Vrms) generally increases, attains a peak value, and then decreases with increasing spindle speed during the initial period. In this period, changes in Vrms magnitude, speed at peak Vrms position, slope of ascending AE signal with speed (Vrms/speed) were observed with acceleration. Lubricated and unlubricated disks showed different response to disk acceleration. Possible explanations for these are provided. The present work shows that acceleration of the disk has an effect on the generation of AE signal at the head–disk interface.