The Effects of Molecular Structure and Microscopic Coverage of Lubricants on the Frictional Properties

The frictional properties of the lubricants on a magnetic thin film medium (evaporated metal tape) are presented. The perfluoro carboxylic acid stearyl amine salt has better frictional characteristics compared with the corresponding amide. The microscopic coverage of the lubricant film on the magnetic medium also is investigated by means of FTIR. The Coverage does not change during friction test for the carboxylic acid amine salt which tightly anchors to the magnetic surface ; the frictional coefficient is low and steady. However for the amide, rubbing contact Causes breaks in the lubricant film, and consequently the dry contact, results in a great increase in friction coefficient ; the amide has a weak interaction with the surfaces.